Prime Ministerial Spin

Prime Minister Gillard’s latest correspondence with the Australian public (13 January 2013 – link attached) is an extraordinary exercise in political spin. She publicly foreshadows the decline of an “unchallenged and all-powerful America,” and mocks the “many nations in Europe [who] weren’t that smart.”  These comments will undoubtedly raise eyebrows amongst our closest friends and allies. [...] Continue reading » » »

Two years down and how much longer to go?

Today marks two years since the last federal election and if the current parliamentary cycle runs full term, the Australian people can vote for a better way in about a year. I have spent the last year living in Launceston as a fulltime candidate for the seat of Bass, hearing from Northern Tasmanians about their [...] Continue reading » » »

Bass ‘Key Issues’ Survey – July 2012

I have spent the last two days responding to survey forms from my brochure, which was distributed throughout Northern Tasmania last week (18-20 July).  Thanks to the 134 people who have responded to date.  Your comments have re-confirmed the policy issues that matter most to our community.  I am thrilled to have received so many [...] Continue reading » » »

Small business messages from Northern Tasmania

I met with nine small business owners in Launceston during the past week (to 28 October), encompassing manufacturing, agriculture, services, and retail.  All had put an enormous effort in building their business and displayed a strong culture of innovation and continuous improvement.  They conveyed their aspirations for the future, as well as concerns about things [...] Continue reading » » »