Australia’s Leadership and Strategic Vision, where is it?

Introduction

In recent decades, Australia, like many Western nations, has become increasingly polarized. The rise of social media, escalating living costs, and global security challenges have contributed to a sense of national decline. This raises the question: How did we transition from a future-oriented, can-do nation of the post-World War II era to one struggling with basic issues like housing its population?

The root of this problem may lie in Australia's lack of a clearly defined, long-term strategic vision, coupled with a political system that seems to lack the leadership to articulate and pursue such a vision.

Political Instability and Policy Inconsistency

Since 2007, Australia has seen six Prime Ministers over seven different terms. During this period, the government and Defence Force have produced six White Papers, Reviews, and Strategies, resulting in major strategic and economic blunders. Notable examples include:

· The cancellation of the Franco-Australian diesel-powered submarine program in favour of the AUKUS deal for nuclear-powered submarines.

· The introduction and subsequent removal of armoured reconnaissance and troop transport helicopter fleets from the Army (we won’t discuss the shameful burying saga of the Taipans).

Concurrently, Australia faces an energy crisis, exacerbated by "the absence of a consistent national energy policy for over a decade." This lack of policy consistency has left the nation ill-prepared for current challenges, including more frequent and intense natural disasters due to climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the impacts of global conflicts.

Growing Polarisation

The nation finds itself increasingly divided on issues ranging from climate change and indigenous recognition to immigration, housing, energy options, and security. There seems to be a lack of balanced, moderate voices that can make sense of complex information and provide clear, rational options.

This polarization has led to significant challenges in passing meaningful legislation, such as:

 · The legalization of same-sex marriage requiring a voluntary postal vote to prompt parliamentary action, limiting the perceived political suicide the issue would cause to those that championed it.

· The failure of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum, partly due to a lack of bipartisan support and poor political rhetoric.

· The delayed establishment of a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which took 30 years, 57 inquiries, and extensive lobbying by bereaved families to achieve.

The Need for Strategic Vision

Australia's resilience to external factors can only come through a clearly articulated strategic vision that sets a long-term plan for national prosperity. This collective vision, supported by strong leadership, could galvanize the population and provide hope for the future.

As citizens, we should demand:

· Proficient, balanced, and fearless leadership from our Prime Ministers.

· Bipartisan advocacy for the nation's best interests, rather than narrow constituencies or special interests.

· A 'Fair Go' for all Australians, regardless of their background.

· A clear vision for Australia's future, with a concrete plan and accountability for politicians.

Taking Ownership

To ensure this vision becomes a reality, Australians must take ownership of their democracy:

· Fact-check news and research counter-arguments to personal perceptions.

· Call out misinformation and stand against polarizing rhetoric in society and government.

· Engage more deeply in the democratic process beyond simply voting on election day.

As George Washington warned about the dangers of partisanship:

He further implored citizens that:

It's time for Australians to heed this advice, demand better from their leaders, and actively participate in shaping a unified, prosperous future for their nation.