LOSING FAITH

AUSTRALIANS are suffering a lack of confidence at the moment with many losing faith in the institutions that are the backbone of our country.

Respect for politicians is at an alltime low for obvious reasons. The banks are in disarray and devoid of any credibility.

Local government gives every appearance of being corrupt and self-interested. Reliance on the court system to maintain law and order has been shaken by a succession of very weakkneed decisions by magistrates. Without fail, history has shown us that a loss in faith in social institutions is invariably followed by anarchy and civil disorder.

We need steps immediately to restore confidence and correct the perception that everyone is corrupt. A good place to start is the Royal Commission.

Where wrongdoing is proven, the government should wade in with a heavy hand, ordering criminal charges, realistic fines and victim compensation.

Not fines that amount to five minutes’ income or weak-kneed regulations that are easily ignored or sidestepped.

This would be cathartic for the banks, allowing them to draw a line under what has been, and announce a new direction from here forward.

The government would be seen as decisive and concerned about the welfare of their constituents. This would be a good beginning toward rebuilding trust and confidence in the general public.

JOSEPH K.F. COURTE, Miles