The Australian public was becoming disenfranchised with politics and something needed to be done before society ‘fractured more’ according to newly elected Member for Burt Matt Keogh.
Mr Keogh made the comments in his maiden speech to parliament on October 10 and said something had to be done.
“I am concerned by the number of people that feel disenfranchised and disengaged with Australian political life today,” he said.
“This has been reflected in ever decreasing voter turn-out as well as expressions, through the ballot box and other forums, of sentiments akin to those expressed by Brexiters and Tea Partiers.
“I do not condemn them…though I may have strong disagreement with them.”
Mr Keogh said they must acknowledge the public’s ‘fears and concerns’ and address them through the values and compassion or else they risked ‘fracturing society’ even more.
“By not only speaking to, but acting consistently with, the values I’ve outlined, as well as clearly articulating and explaining their imperative and rationale.
“We can as a nation come back together with a greater belief in our parliamentary democracy and what we can achieve together,” he said.
“I do not mean that we pander to or compromise on what I believe to be the fundamental promise of the Australian fair go for anyone who wishes to join us.
“I mean that we must actively engage in reminding each other why we cherish it and act consistently with it.”
In his speech Mr Keogh also highlighted his concerns about domestic violence in the country and his electorate and advocated for more resources to combat it.
“We must also ensure we have adequate, available and fully supported domestic violence services, adequately funded legal assistance and community education,” he said.
“We should also support victims of domestic violence by ensuring provision of personal leave as a safety net as they access help in protecting themselves and their families, which can often be an overwhelming experience and unfortunately often far too complex.”
