Second,there is a basis in our institutions and legal frameworks for the PM’s position. Our society is partly based on liberal values and a defined and sequestered role for governments. So,it’s not surprising some think,that during COVID-19,the pendulum swung too far towards constraints on personal liberty,executive power of the political and bureaucratic class,and one dimensional policy-making.
Through lockdown co-operation and vaccination take-up,Australians strongly adhered to what public authorities deemed necessary to control COVID-19. They accepted the risk assessment and adjusted. There were more conscientious objectors during our World War involvements than to pandemic-related public health orders.
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However,compliance during COVID-19 doesn’t translate into a mandate for the future footprint of Australian governments. “New normal”,for many,doesn’t automatically mean greater power for politicians of any stripe. It’s likely some want to return to pre-pandemic political mores.
While I’m sure few have consulted the Tenterfield Oration lately,Henry Parkes,for example,was mindful of checks and balances on power and the need for diversity and representation (in their late 19th century contexts) as he advocated for a national Australian government and constitution.
It’s a reasonable expectation by some sections of the community – and picked up on by the Prime Minister’s comments and perhaps polling – that there be a cultural correction away from lifestyles being prescribed by public edict.
Finally,the position is consistent with previous ones. Morrison has positioned the COVID-19 experience as a “deal” or “pact”. It goes like this:you,the public,do what’s needed to contain the virus and get vaxxed;then,we get out of the way of your usual lives.
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According to a very senior government figure,the Prime Minister was in his rally comments reflecting on how governments of all levels now need to fulfil their side of the bargain. (Notwithstandingly,Jacqueline Maley was right to point out the incongruity of centre-right leaders advocating for smaller government from government.)
“The public has done the hard yards. What we’re saying is that it’s now time for politicians to meet their part of the promise. There’s no dog whistle in that. There’s fulfilling a deal,” he said.
So,whether we agree or disagree with the Prime Minister’s comments,it’s hard to reject them as unreasonable. They are at least a mirror on some part of us,our culture and our institutions.
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