Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews
So, Victoria goes to the polls tomorrow.
There is little doubt much is at stake, and although comments that “your vote will really count” are trotted out at every election on this occasion this time your vote will really count.
This election is about many things, but it has mainly been about the Premier Dan Andrews and his perceived arrogance, autocratic rule and reckless fiscal mismanagement.
He has, it can be argued, made decisions – decisions like the closure of the native timber industry – for simply self-preservation and as payback for favours delivered.
Of course, we may never know why he made his timber decision; the reasons have never really been properly explained.
Much has been made of reports that recent polls show support for Labor has dived, meaning the chance of a minority government – where a party needs crossbench or opposition support to pass legislation – has increased.
Of course, a post-election crossbench in Victoria would be an interesting mix of Greens, Teals, truly independent independents, and everything in between.
And each and every one of them will have their own hobby horse, which they will promote if a minority government seeks their vote.
Serious analysts are suggesting Melbourne’s west could prove difficult for Labor where independents could win seats in what is traditionally Labor’s heartland.
They claim that the western suburbs have been promised hospitals, education, public transport but nothing has been delivered.
Sadly, this election has been all about what matters in Melbourne. And the government’s handling of Covid has been one of the key issues.
Various media outlets have listed the important issues facing voters, but none mention the timber industry and the future of East Gippsland.
And among the independents only the Greens have mentioned the timber industry should they be called upon to help Labor form a minority government.
And they want the native timber industry shut down next year.
So, yes, your vote will really count this time. Your vote will matter.
In its editorial this morning, the Herald Sun – clearly no fan of the Premier – says politics in Victoria is polarised and the Andrews government’s handling of the pandemic, its centralised power and its ideology that puts state control above individuals and businesses has widened those community divisions.
“Given the damage done to Victoria and its people over the past few years, if Daniel Andrews was the CEO of any publicly listed company, he would have lost his job long ago,” the Herald Sun says.
If you think about it, lots of CEOs have been sacked in the past for a lot less than what Mr Andrews has foisted on Victoria, the native timber industry, and the people of East Gippsland.
