10 September 2010
It's been 6 weeks since I updated this blog.
Apologies.
But it's been, well, a rather busy six weeks.
As things finally start to settle down, it seems to me there's reason to be more optimistic about the new “paradigm” than many appear to be.
Yes there will be plenty of examples of division between the “rainbow alliance” of Labor, Greens and independents.
And there's a good chance the whole experiment could fail in 12-18 months, ending in a change of government.
But this bizarre election outcome also presents a genuine opportunity for a new style of governing.
And I reckon we should give it a chance.
Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor have shown great courage in backing Labor.
It's a huge risk to them personally.
But in a political culture that's become so risk-averse, this is refreshing.
Together with the Greens, the Indies need this experiment to work.
If it doesn't, all will suffer.
Of the major reforms we know are on the agenda in this term, the outlook is more promising for Julia Gillard than some have suggested.
Labor's broadband network is strongly supported by the Indies and the Greens.
The mining tax is also supported by the Greens. The Indies have given qualified backing to a profits-based tax.
And the government's chances of putting a price on carbon actually look stronger than they did in the last parliament.
Most importantly, any legislation that does win the support of this “rainbow alliance” will carry a broader spectrum of legitimacy than bills in previous parliaments.
Tony Abbott has so far defined his leadership by the strength and success of his attacks.
On the emissions trading scheme, pink batts, the mining tax, debt and boats.
It could be harder for him now.
The Opposition Leader will rightly hammer any sign of parliamentary gridlock.
But if reforms do succeed, Tony Abbott will risk being seen as Mr Negative.
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