Stark difference between leaders

STARK differences between Australia and Aotearoa (New Zealand) have emerged from the horrendous killings at Christchurch on Friday. We all know New Zealanders won’t show hatred for all Australians, something very unlikely in the NZ mindset. These differences are demonstrated through Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. The aftermath was addressed in their parliament with understanding, compassion and an embracing of the Muslim community. PM Ardern spoke so appropriately, and not one voice of contempt and hate from other parliamentarians emerged. This is so unlike Australian parliaments where we hear the voices of hate, of disrespect and a view the “other” is good for votes only.

Aboriginal communities are no stranger to disrespect from Australia’s parliaments. We hear them telling the world to have no respect, demonstrated on every Australia Day, our Invasion Day that white Australia so quickly dismisses with a “Get over it”. We protest every year, but the PM and premiers/ chief ministers refuse to change the date. These sorts of actions create festering politics of hatred against Aborigines in particular. There are no politicians here who can stand alongside Jacinda Ardern and show leadership other than demo- nising of minorities to shore up their power. Can Australia change? Not if politicians garner power through hatred and disrespect, playing to white supremacists for votes, demonising refugees seeking safety from wars in which Australia participates, and mindless support of the US and its warmongering in the South-East Asia-Pacific region. In my view there will never be change until a true leader emerges. Are there any Gough Whitlams, Paul Keatings, Malcolm Frasers waiting in the wings, or is white Australia satisfied with its image?