Following Brett Whiteley’s attack on Tasmanian youth, single mums and other battlers today ( Advocate HERE ), TasCOSS calls on all Tasmanian politicians and candidates to show leadership and take a respectful stance on social issues while campaigning during the long election race ahead.
TasCOSS CEO Kym Goodes said those looking for leadership from Federal Members of Parliament deserve better than simplistic and populist politics that aims to stigmatise Tasmanians who are legally entitled to access assistance and support from the Federal Government.
“People accessing programs such as Newstart are human beings,” Ms Goodes said.
“I believe Tasmanians are heartily sick of politics that turns our communities and neighbours against each other as if their lack of opportunity, rather than a lack of strong leadership, is to blame,” Ms Goodes said.
“If that sort of divisive politics is how this campaign starts, the next 10 weeks will do nothing to improve Federal leadership in our State.
“If we keep doing things the same way, if we keep attacking each other rather than leading by example, nothing will improve for our State, our communities or our children.”
Ms Goodes said issues such as unemployment and drug use raised today by Mr Whiteley were complex and the hard work undertaken by true community leaders across the North West Coast should not be devalued with simplistic notions.
“Tasmanians want and need political candidates to provide thoughtful options, evidence-based solutions and strong leadership to their communities, including on these types of ‘hot button’ issues.
“The best political leadership creates a culture of opportunity and aspiration, bringing people together and applying good public policy to complex challenges as the only way to turn around long-term, entrenched issues.
“TasCOSS, like most Tasmanians, is looking for leadership in candidates for this election. Hopefully we will not be disappointed.”
TasCOSS is the peak body for the community services sector in Tasmania and advocates on behalf of disadvantaged Tasmanians.
