THE uncertainty of what party will govern Australia continues this week.
Candidates from the Mitchell and Greenway electorates have varying opinions of what lies ahead for whatever party is destined to govern with a minority of seats.
Mitchell MP Alex Hawke, who was declared the winner of his seat yesterday, said he hoped the outcome of the election would be used as an opportunity for positive changes in Parliament.
``Question time could use some improvement, with more questions more often.''
Greenway Liberal candidate Jaymes Diaz said the result showed the community was ``fed up with Labor and concerned that the style of NSW Labor politics is now taking over federal government.''
Mitchell Greens candidate Colin Dawson said as there was little to distinguish Liberal and Labor on most major issues it was ``really appropriate that they are likely to finish in a dead-heat''.
``Neither of them provided any inspiration; neither of the leaders provided any real leadership,'' he said.
``Tragically, we have no national strategy on renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions, although the majority of Australians want it.
``I'm not sure that either of the major parties have enough wisdom to think of this situation as a wake-up call. It seems more likely to be addressed in the way they normally do business: by offering incentives to vested interests.
``However, most of the independents who are likely to hold the balance seem to be outward looking and have a good concept of national interest.
``I'm thrilled that some some of the independents have spoken of parliamentary reform. More efficient and professional use of question time would be a good start. I also like the idea that private members' bills will have to be taken seriously.
``But on the down side, it's not hard to imagine a fragile coalition becoming unworkable. The independents may not be able to agree with each other on significant issues, let alone the major party.''
Greenway Greens candidate Paul Taylor said the election outcome showed that people want to hear more from third parties and independents.
``It will enhance our democracy to have those broader voices represented in Parliament. While the counting continues, we can speculate on which party will form government and whose support they will need to do so.
``It could be a good outcome for Australia if we form a minority government with Greens MP Adam Bandt and the three independent MPs.
``There will be increased opportunities for transparency with new legislation. Instead of rushing through new laws without proper scrutiny, a minority government will have to negotiate over legislation and address weaknesses in proposed new laws before they are passed. It could be a period of much greater reform than if either Labor or the Liberals hold a majority.''
Greenway Christian Democrat candidate Allan Green said his party's vote was ``well up in booths where we had volunteers''. ``The people in western Sydney voted against the Labor government. They lost their majority and may not be able govern. The Labor party needs to reform its alliance with the Greens party or it may not have a majority again in any future election.''
< p>
Email a friend