Silent, complacent voters give up voice in Canberra

IT’S no secret I’m interested in politics and have no hesitance in expressing an opinion. Those opinions will not sit comfortably with some and I can live with that. Why do I put myself out there? That’s easy to answer.

The Bulletin’s street survey in the marginal Gold Coast seat of Forde identified that only 14 per cent knew that Bert van Manen was their federal member despite his holding the seat for the past nine years. That’s not only complacent but irresponsible.

Burt is the people’s voice for Forde. He, as will every other MP, take their constituents’ message to Canberra. The volume and consistency of those messages will have a bearing on policy be it the government or opposition. If we the majority fail to engage by communicating our desires and concerns, we relinquish our hardwon democracy and get the government we deserve.

We’re all busy and the pressure of the cost of living doesn’t make life easier so it’s important to remember that one of the biggest impacts on our lives are the decisions made by government. Our laws, taxes and infrastructure are just three of them.

I know my local, state and federal representatives and the majority outside my electorate.

I make my opinions, desires and concerns known not just through this paper but personally because I want the government we need, not just the one they deem to give us.

Have you ever wondered why minority groups and their causes are in ascendance? It’s because the disproportionally representative vocal minority, passionate in their belief engage while the majority relinquish their voice and power through their silence and complacency.

In answer to my self-imposed question as to why I put myself out there. Someone must if we are to preserve the democracy many take for granted. If 87 per cent of Forde constituents don’t know their federal member and that is atypical of the rest of our city then I hope many more will join me in sending our message to Canberra.

BOB JANSSEN, GOLD COAST