The 2013 federal election is fast approaching. The polls suggest it will be a close and hard fought election. Tony Abbott may be the next Prime Minister of Australia. What does this mean for services and working people? What can be done?
Most working people rely on federal laws for their workplace protections and the federal government is the key funding provider for public and other services to those in need. A better life, a better working life, is mostly governed in Australia by national laws and policies. These powerful new TV ads from the ACTU make this point well. Watch them here.
A recent survey of Save Our Service supporters found that 90% considered the federal election to be very important or important, while workplace protections was considered the most important issue by 87% or respondents. NDIS/National DisabilityCare (82%) and School/Gonski funding (63%) were also considered to be important or very important.
Save Our Services has concluded that an Abbott-led conservative government would be a risk too great to take.
As during the recent WA state election we will not be endorsing any particular political party. We will oppose those conservative parties that opposed the Save Our Service Action plan in the state election and whose hostility to public services and workplace protections are also evident at a federal level.
There are several key campaigns going on focussed on the federal election.
Parent and teachers are campaigning for improved schools funding in WA, and community groups working to try and get WA to sign up to National Disability Care.
With such a clear body of opinion among our supporters, Save Our Services, with continuing support from individuals, unions and union members, has decided to focus on the federal election.
A recent poll by Essential Media has shown that word of mouth is trusted and relied upon when people make decisions about politics. What you say to family, friends and work colleagues does make a difference. How you use social media can also reinforce those messages.
Of course talking directly to those with whom you associate – such as union members talking to other union members who are undecided, and especially those that vote in key marginal electorates such as Perth, Fremantle and Hasluck, can be particularly effective. These areas are our key strategies for the federal election.
Will you help to make a difference?
Save Our Services is looking for volunteers to help make telephone calls, manage our data base or help generate content for our communications. You don't have to live in the target areas to be of help. Click here if you are willing to volunteer in one of these target seats: Perth, Fremantle or Hasluck.
Meredith Hammat
Save Our Services Spkesperson
Secretary, UnionsWA