With under 60 days to go and stinging criticism emanating from all quarters against the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, Suresh Kalmadi is the cynosure of all attention. Be it stadiums, catering contracts, withdrawal of athletes, rubble on Delhi roads, Kalmadi is the buck stops man for the CWG 2010 Organizing Committee. Is he feeling the heat, can India truly deliver a reasonable Games, are the Games beyond salvation or will the withdrawal of athletes hurt the Games beyond redemption, were questions the indian asked him in this 2 hour long meeting at his house in Delhi. For the first time perhaps, he answered all the uncomfortable questions posed. Here are excerpts from the conversation:

Boria- CWG 2010 is a volcano waiting to erupt and you are at the center of the storm. Are you really confident that you can stage a reasonable show?
Suresh Kalmadi- Yes I continue to be very confident. The infrastructure is ready or near ready. I am aware of the criticism in the media but I choose to ignore such criticism because most of it is ill directed. If its constructive criticism, I will always welcome it. However, in most cases I am targeted without substance. The stadiums aren’t my responsibility. Most stadiums are under SAI or built by them and the Sports Ministry and some are under DDA. I will be responsible when they are handed over to the OC. But I have never shied away from criticism and have tried to take things in my stride. I remain confident that we will stage a very good Games because the infrastructure is first rate.

Boria- You say the infrastructure is near ready but we keep reading and seeing roofs collapsing, floors getting damaged, tiles coming off, grass embankments at stadiums getting damaged and finally athletes getting injured after the recent rains. When will all this be sorted?
Suresh Kalmadi- Yes you are right that the rains, really heavy downpours over the past few days, have damaged some of the stadiums. The false ceilings etc were damaged and the floors have been damaged in some places. Nothing of this is major, however, and repair work is already on in full swing and will be complete within weeks. I am glad that the rains came down as heavily as they did and we were exposed to these problems well in time. Had there been no rains now and we would have faced incessant rains during the games, we may have had problems. The rains offered us an opportunity to take corrective measures and be prepared for any kind of eventuality.

Boria- Coming to the question of budget, it is well established that the Games are way over budget and will sting the ordinary tax payer because it is ultimately his or her money that is being utilised. Your take on this?
Suresh Kalmadi- Let’s first make one thing clear. I am the only person among the Games stakeholders who has been given money on loan by the government. Everyone else, be it the Delhi Government or the sports ministry have been given grants. So the Sports Ministry doesn’t need to bother about returning the money it has been given by the government. In my case, however, I am committing to returning the loan of 1600 crores the government has given me. I have raised 650 crores in sponsorships and am trying to raise the rest of the money.
If the media decides to tag all the money for the construction or airports, roads, stadiums into the budget of the OC and for the Games it is unfair. If you do such a thing will you see that the budget is huge. But all of these facilities are for Delhi and also for India and will be used for the next few decades. Why should you tag all of these expenses to the cost of hosting the Games?

Boria- So you are then saying that the Games are not over budget?
Suresh Kalmadi- I am not saying that. Yes initial estimates have been revised and in many cases we have spent more than initially anticipated. But these kinds of overspend happens all over the world in practically every mega event. But as I said to you I am committed to paying back the loan I have been given by the government. I will be the only one returning the money while others like the sports ministry have the privilege to enjoy the grants they have been given.

Boria- Mani Shankar Aiyar has repeatedly castigated the Games and you personally, any reaction?
Suresh Kalmadi- Had Mani Shankar Aiyar been the sports minister India would not have been able to host the games. The stadiums would not have been built, the infrastructure would not have been developed and Indian sport would have lost out. I don’t want to get into a personal slanging match but all I’d say is that the CWG are for India.

Boria- Given the number of pullouts, almost every second day we see a star athlete pulling out. So much so that your contention that the Games will be the best ever is beginning to sound hollow. Can you tell us who is coming, rather than the media speculating on who all aren’t coming?
Suresh Kalmadi- I can guarantee you this will be the biggest Games with 8000 plus athletes and many world champions in attendance in Delhi. Currently the teams have submitted the number of athletes that will come to Delhi and on 3 September we will be sent final lists of individuals participating in the Games. But we are regularly in touch with the 71 nations and trying to ensure we get the best crop. What we do know is Asafa Powell and Johan Blake, who have both done very well in recent IAAF championships, are likely to be here. Rebecca Adlington, the golden girl of the Beijing pool will come as will Stephanie Rice from Australia. There will be a huge number of world champions from all parts of the world who will make Delhi home in October. You can take my word on this.

Boria- What about the mess over the catering contract? Why is it that you have still not been able to give out the contract?
Suresh Kalmadi- Look the principal contract that relates to catering at the Games village is all done with. This was the major headache. The Australian company, which had done the job in Melbourne will be doing it in Delhi and all the equipment is being supplied by a British company. In fact all of the equipment has reached Delhi and things are moving exactly to plan. Yes the contract for the catering at the venues are yet to be given out but that is because the initial tenders were all pegged at very high prices that we couldn’t afford. Hence we had to reissue the tender and I can assure you that within days the contract will be given out.

Boria- On the one hand you have a dearth of sponsors and are saying that you have limited funds for catering and on the other you are spending 50 crores to rent a helium balloon for a day at the Opening ceremony. Isn’t this an act of extravagance in the very least?
Suresh Kalmadi- At every mega event there is some unique feature associated with the opening ceremony that adds to the gloss of the ceremony. The helium balloon will cover 3/4ths of the stadium and will reflect lighting that will make the ceremony much more appealing to all who will be watching. There are video effects that will be radiated from it and it will be spectacular. We will be testing the aerostat in London on the 17th of August and remain confident that the country will love the opening ceremony when it is finally on show. Besides this balloon etc, AR Rehman is doing the theme song, Ranjit Barot composing music for a segment, Hariharan doing the same, leading maestros are training troops of dancers who will be performing and Javed Akhtar, Prasoon Joshi and Shyam Benegal ideating on the ceremony. You can’t get better than this. The money is being well spent and I remain accountable for all spends I am sanctioning.

Boria- Coming to the issue of community integration, I don’t think much has been done at all. In fact, I can tell you that the average Delhite is hardly in a mood to welcome the Games. For the average man on the street it is an act of indulgence we can ill afford. Why isn’t there any conscious attempt at community integration?
Suresh Kalmadi- There is a very large volunteer force in place and we are also undertaking programmes to spread the message of the Games to the schools. Anyone interested in helping out and becoming a volunteer has been welcomed and we are trying to link up Delhi schools and colleges to ensure that the masses of Delhi, especially the youth, are part of the Games. We want to make this Delhi’s Games and the youth is key to us achieving our goal. You are not right in saying there is no excitement for we receive a huge number of applications from students wanting to know how to help out.

Boria- If you see social networking sites you will only find negatives about the Games. It is an atmosphere of gloom, that India is about to shame itself in front of the world. Why has it come to this if you are saying everything is on track?
Suresh Kalmadi- In 1982 we just had 1 Doordarshan . Now we have 100 television channels and radio stations. If you broadcast good things about the Games people will not want to watch. Negative publicity results in growing trp’s. It is only natural that channels are going for us because they are concerned about their trp’s. But I can tell you with certainty that India will surely stage a very good show come October. See what’s happened with the baton relay. Unlike in Beijing, the baton has traveled the world without a single untoward incident. Why aren’t you guys giving us credit for these things?

Boria- What are your principal challenges now with under 60 days to go? Things are way from being complete and you must now be thinking how to make the most of your time in making sure patch up work is done to near perfection!
Suresh Kalmadi- There are no major challenges because most of the work is done. It is a difference of perception. You think a lot of work is still outstanding while I can assure you that most of the work has already been done and finishing touches remain. We are working on overlays, laying of cables, getting the IBC functional and putting finishing touches as the Games come near. The merchandising is starting from early August and the buzz around the Games will be for all of you to see.

Boria- While I am pleased to see that you remain confident but I can tell you that I am genuinely under confident and remain concerned about our ability to stage what you are saying will be the best Games. I will be delighted if I am proved wrong.
Suresh Kalmadi- I can guarantee that India will be proud of the Games. It will be the nation’s best and biggest ever sports event and you should then give credit to the OC and stop criticizing us. It has indeed been a challenge since the time we got the bid in 2003. People were of the view that developing nation’s aren’t equipped to host an event like this and it is on us to prove them wrong. With people like Perry Crosswhite from Australia turning around and saying that Delhi is on track I don’t see any reason to panic. The media criticism is only helping us get stronger and put up a show that will stop critics in their tracks. Now the countdown has begun and it is time to deliver on all our promises.

India’s melody queen Shreya Ghoshal has sung several songs for Bollywood and other Indian film industries. Besides Hindi, she performs in Assamese, Bengali,Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi,and Tamil songs. Ghoshal is one of the most awarded playback singers in recent times, with four National Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards to her credit.

She is the great fan of Vani Jayaram. Ghoshal caught the attention of film director Sanjay Leela Bhansali when she participated in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa for a second time, this time as an adult. In 2000, he offered her the opportunity to be the voice of Paro, the lead female character of his film Devdas, who was portrayed by Aishwarya Rai. Shreya sang five songs under the musical direction of Ismail Darbar in the film. Her performance won her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer, as well as Filmfare’s RD Burman Award for New Music Talent, given to upcoming talents in music. She also won a National Film Award for the song “Bairi Piya”.

Her songs “Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai” from Jism, “Mera Dholna” from Bhool Bhulaiyaa, “Teri Ore from Singh Is King”, “Yeh Ishq Haaye” from Jab We Met and “Barso Re” from Guru are all smashing hits you can’t ever forget.

Rohit Revo interviewed Shreya Ghoshal on the eve of her tour to Australia.

You are the only singer to get four national awards at the age of 26 in the Hindi film industry. How does it feel to achieve so much at such a young age?
Well, frankly I have never sung for awards.. I am blessed that I have received so much love and respect from my audiences and jury all throughout. I would say, this is just my beginning, there is a lot to do. I am still evolving as an artist.

June 26th, 2010 has been declared as “SHREYA GHOSHAL DAY” in the state of Ohio in US in recognition of your musical contribution? What was your reaction when you heard this?
This is a big honour and completely unexpected. It was a surprise kept for me when I arrived at Ohio for my concert.. The Governor’s wife presented me this honour. I was too overwhelmed!

From Devdas to Guru and peppy Latto in Ghajini. ….you have had a great going.Where is Shreya Ghoshal heading in the future?
Hmmm! Absolutely no idea where I am headed.. The only forces which drive me in life is a hunger for excellence and the need to do different things. So that will decide how my life shapes up in the future..

Do you think reality TV contests are the right medium to attract new music talent to the film industry?
This question has been asked to me just too many times. Let’s talk something more interesting.

Did you like your experience of being a judge in TV musical contest?
Was fun.. Different kind of experience!

You have sung in many genres. Is there any particular type of song you love to sing?
Indian folk has always attracted me. I would like to experiment more in this genre. And Jazz, which is a very difficult music form, would like to learn it.

DNA INDIA ranked you as #41 in its list of INDIA’s TOP 50 POWER WOMEN. Your  reactions please.
Wow. I feel awesome:) but to know that I am powerful is actually intimidating, because with power comes responsibility so, I got to be very careful with every step I take in life, as everyone’s looking here:)

You had a very successful show in Sydney Opera House last time? What is the best part about performing in Sydney?
The last concert I had in Sydney was simply mind-blowing. One of the best I can say the audience was simply awesome! And the venue was really prestigious. I love the Sydney spirit…Ekdam mast Very lively responsive audience. Big music lovers. Can’t wait too see them again

You sing so many songs. But what songs do you listen to when you are free.
Hmmm. Lots. From Indian classical to Jazz to old Hindi film to new ones to a little bit of rock

What is your advice to young singers aspiring to make it big in the film industry?
Before u decide to take the plunge into taking up a career in this industry, you must learn music, make your art really perfect. And be unique, don’t blindly copy someone’s style.

You have such a pretty face and many of your fans want to see you acting as well. Do you have any plans of acting.
I can’t act.. I am a drama queen only at home. If I ever do an album I will feature in the video (Laughs)

Can you give us a peep into what your fans can expect to see and hear in your upcoming concert in Sydney.
Come to the concert. I am sure I will be able to touch all music lover’s hearts somewhere   There will be songs from all my films, and if requested may be some old Hindi songs, a few of my regional hits.
Its all up to the audience’s mood So be ready to make some noise! And make your requests heard

What message do you want to give to your fans in Australia?
Excitement is building up, can’t wait to see you guys. Australian fans know how to show their love for the artists and I want to give them that back too.

Watching the Election Campaign 2010, you can’t help but notice how the attention this election has turned away from the prime contenders Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott to players who are not fighting the elections. Old Prime Ministers and old ministers and advisors are all over the air waves which gives an indication that the electorate thinks these leaders have been forced down their throats by the political parties. Both of them don’t come across as dominant leaders who can steer Australia to a more commanding position. The elections have so far focussed on the former Prime Ministers primarily John Howard and Kevin Rudd apart from fringe players like Mark Latham and Laurie Oaks.

Julia Gillard’s position as an election winner has been compromised after Labor party invited Kevin Rudd to save them from the voter backlash. Julia was supposed to be the sole face of Labor after the mid night political assassination of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Even if Julia wins, Kevin Rudd will share the limelight as he will be credited partly with the Labor win. In politics as soon as there are more contenders for sharing the spoils of office, the leader will always be on tenter hooks and Julia Gillard will not ever be in a commanding position if she becomes Prime Minister this Spring season.

Now if Tony Abbott becomes the next Prime Minister of Australia, he might be held in high esteem within Australia but he will never get the same respect which Kevin Rudd or a John Howard got when they went abroad. Tony Abbotts policy of sending asylum seekers in boats back when they come into Australia is simply too harsh and is at conflict with the compassion and understanding which the world expects from the heads of developed countries. His notion that Climate Change is not man made will put him in direct conflict with the rest of the Heads of State in global summits and instead of making new friends, he will always find himself at cross roads whenever he travels abroad. The transnational media companies will sneer at his comments as he will be an easy target due to his extreme comments in the past. His refusal to ever set a price on carbon under a Coalition government is not sustainable.

Remember how the last Federal elections were fought on the policy of Afghanistan and Iraq. This was one of the main election issues as voters were keen to know the future foreign policy engagement of the Nation. One of the main highlights of this election is the complete absence of foreign policy issues and Afghanistan and Iraq is the last thing on the minds of our leaders. At a time when Australian causalities in Afghanistan have peaked and we should be discussing future commitments our leaders have steered clear of this issue. Unfortunately for our leaders in this election, the farthest they have gone on foreign policy discussion is Nauru and East Timor.

One of the defining characteristic of this election has also been the focus on the state of Victoria and Queensland. NSW seems to have been forgotten again. There have been no major policy announcements related to the deteriorating  infrastructure in NSW.

The mainstream political parties are fighting this elections mainly on asylum seekers. By calling a no holds debate on this issue they are appealing to lowest common denominator in our society when we should be focussing on the economy. Equally appalling is the attitude of some talkback radio jockeys to create fear in the minds of listeners that Australia is going to be swamped by asylum seekers.

Is this the start of the frustration of people with the mainstream political parties?

The Indian reporters, Uttam Mukherjee and Ashish Ganda talk to the members of the Australian Indian community on the eve of the Federal Elections and file this report.

Elections are the medium through which the dance of democracy is staged. Elections insure that people select the rulers that govern them. Democracy has been with us for a long, long time. Consider this…the ancient philosopher, Plato, Greek philosopher, (circa 400 BC) remarked: Democracy… is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder; and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequals alike. Everyone knows
Abraham Lincoln’s famous quote on democracy that is a generally accepted definition – “Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people”. Renowned novelist, George Bernard Shaw’s showed cynicism for the subject when commenting – “Democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve” On a lighter note, Clement Attlee, ex-Prime Minister (PM) of UK, said that Democracy
means government by discussion, but it is only effective if you can stop people talking. So while the dance of democracy is almost universal in present days, its flavour is distinct for each individual.

It is election time in Australia. Three dramatic years have passed since the last elections here and a new set of leaders are now competing for the post of PM. The incumbent, from the Australian Labor Party (ALP), is Ms Julia Gillard – who took on the reins as PM just a month ago. Her main challenger is Mr Tony Abbott of the Liberal Party. Other parties in the fray are Australian Greens, The Nationals and Australian Democrats. Behind the scene political game-plans and ambitions have resulted in the ex-PM Mr Kevin be unceremoniously dumped by ALP in favour of Ms Julia Gillard. On the other hand, Tony Abbott of the Liberal Party had also staged a coup in his party by successfully ousting Mr Malcolm Turnbull as leader midway through the term of the last government. Their parties have placed their bets on them for getting a majority stake in parliament to form the government.

Campaigning is in full progress for the elections. The parties have brought out a number of issues to push their case to the public. Reducing the influx of runaway refugees popularly called “The Boat People”, reducing the surge in population by reducing immigration, increasing the paid parental leave days, aged care, health and education (eg laptop for school children) are some of the key issues being prominently discussed.

A number of issues are surprisingly missing from the election speeches – infrastructure improvements, aligning Australia with the new global realities, environmental and sustainable matters, managing China’s influence and factoring in India’s growing importance. It seems preference is to dole out money to various groups than to focus on enhancing the future potential of the nation. In language of the iconic movie Matrix – politicians are happy to offer the “Blue Pill” to the populace for the race to Canberra.  The “Red Pill” is being kept out of the public view. Political leaders in their speeches make big claims about talking of taking Australia forward and providing stability – however without action on factors that decide the competitive advantage of Australia, it is hard to foresee how Australia can really move forward.

We, at The Indian, posed a couple of questions to randomly chosen Australian citizens of Indian origin on their choices to assess the pulse of what the community felt and whether they find some issues amiss in the election campaigning.

The questions were

1. Which party would you want to vote (or, not vote) for? Please give one reason.
2. Who do you think would be the better PM, Julia Gillard or Tony Abbott? Please give one reason.

Here are their responses (arranged alphabetically).

? Ambika of Ashfield:
1. Not voting for Labor. Reason: Unstable leadership.
2. Tony Abbott. Party has a good history of running the country. Although Tony doesn’t seem matured, other leaders like Joe will guide him.

? Arup from Burwood:
1. I would prefer not to vote as none of the party leaders are convincing about their agenda this time, especially about boat people and Indian Student issue.
2. None of the leaders are suitable for this nation; we need leaders like John Howard, or Kevin-7.

? Ashutosh Razdan from Blacktown:
1. Labor as ALP has managed the Global Financial Crisis very well. Programs for schools, abolishing work cover etc are fantastic.
2. Julia. as ALP promotes multicultural environment and favor working class group.

? Jaipal Bhandari of Woodcroft:
1. Liberals. They led Australia’s economic prosperity through cutting unnecessary spending, bringing budget surplus, reducing interest rate and generating employment.
2. Tony Abbott for implementing these prudent policies.

? Dhiraj from Ashfield:
1. Labor. I somehow believe that Liberals have no plan at all. However, Labor did make a couple of big mistakes, but at least they were trying to do something for the public.
2. Julia. Tony looks like he is has no definite plans.

? Mamta from Belfield:
1. Not Labor, as there does not seem a trust between the team members.
2. I am not impressed with either of them, but definitely not Tony. His views about working conditions for people and taking away unfair dismissal laws, health services do not seem promising.

? Manjit Duggal from Burwood, Melbourne:
1. Liberal because businesses are better with Liberals in power.
2. Julia Gillard as she seems to be a stronger personality.

? Nav Singh of Glenwood:
1. Greens, as major parties, The Liberals and ALP, have let Australia down. Liberal party was in power for more than a decade and made work conditions so difficult for lot of us. Workchoices left a big black mark. Introduction of GST (another tax) was another bad hit. Kevin Rudd of ALP came with big promises and delivered nothing, while splurging unnecessarily.
2. Julia Gillard as she is 100 times better than Tony Abott and believes in taking Australia forward.

? Raghu from Rockdale:
1. Greens. Environment issues are crucial to mankind.
2. Neither are serious about the environment. Between the two, Tony Abbott. He is not cunning or untruthful as Julia.

? Raj from Homebush:
1. Labor; as its objectives are achievements of greater equality in the distribution of income, wealth and opportunity, liberty and social cooperation and elimination of discrimination and exploitation.
2. Julia Gillard; as she has better capability and has better policies on Health, Education, Transport and Infrastructure.

? Shampa from Wattle Grove:
1. Always Labor.
2. Julia. I do not approve of Tony Abbott’s decision of cutting down the immigrant intake. With Julia Gillard I am getting the feel of some positive changes in the system.

? Sudip from Hornsby:
1. Labor; based on Boat People issue.
2. Julia, due to her stand on Health and Education.

? Sukhjinder Singh, an immigration consultant:
1. Dismayed by both parties because making “The Boat People” an issue for the election is pandering to the fears of the public.
2. Julia Gillard – as she is a woman and has shown her mettle by removing Kevin Rudd from the post when he was well entrenched in it.

? Suraj from Westmead:
1. Liberal. Prudence in economy.
2. Tony – Better backing from within party, strong individual and consistency.

? Suraj and Vaidehi from Young:
1. Labor – better policies than Liberal.
2. Julia – Not fully convinced about her but seems better than Tony eg no workchoices.

? Suresh Makkar from Horningsea Park:
1. Labor – as they scrapped work choices which has affected to some extent Australian Social system.
2. Julia: As she would be a better PM
Not surprisingly the choices and reasoning are varied. The opinion polls so far have swung wildly between Julia and Tony. There is also disillusionment among some citizens. One thing seems clear that this will not be a cakewalk for either party or candidate. Also most in the community are basing their decisions on the issues being played out by the politicians. One can almost feel that politicians are right in their postures and have the pulse of the population in hand. While this is good for marketing, it is however not good for the growth of the nation. In this information overloaded society it would not be wrong to assume that the populace would be aware of the needs of the nation and drive politicians attention to it. But is it really? Are the soaps and reality shows more important than thinking about our future? Some indications are provided by the shift in timing for the debate between Julia Gillard and Tony Abott as it was coinciding with the MasterChef finale.

Nowadays, there is fine print in everything. So here it is… all the views expressed above are of those surveyed. The authors or The Indian do not subscribe to it.

TRIVIA ON AUSTRALIAN POLITICS

Here are some trivia on Australian politics and elections that may interest you. A point to note (not surprisingly) is that the owners of the land, the first Australians got their voting rights in 1962!

1835: The Australian Patriotic Association, Australia’s first political ‘party’, was established under W. C. Wentworth. It demanded democratic government for NSW.

1843: First parliamentary elections in Australia – for NSW Legislative Council. Only men with a freehold valued at 200 pounds or a householder paying rent of 20 pounds per year could vote.

1858: The secret ballot was introduced in NSW.

1895: Women over 21 were for the first time given the right to vote in South Australia.

1901: The colonies formed a new level of government known as the Federal Government. The first federal elections were held under State legislation and the Federal Parliament met for the first time in Melbourne, on 9 May

1903: First federal elections under federal law held on 16 Dec: 46.86% voter turnout.

1924: Compulsory voting introduced at federal elections.

1962: Voluntary enrolment and voting at federal elections extended to all Australian Aboriginals.

Unsustainable Logic -Gautam Gupta

Gautam Gupta is the founder of Federation of Indian Students of Australia and a social commentator.

In my opinion the question of population growth must be discussed and debated openly for what it is. By using words such as sustainable population growth our politicians are treating majority of ordinary Australians with contempt.

I think this whole topic is a poor attempt at dog whistling and pandering to the fear of the other. This attitude, instead of being challenged, is followed and promoted and is in full display during every Federal Election. Do you remember Tampa, Weapons of Mass Destruction in Islamic hands and Dr Hanif? Now it is in the guise of population debate.

Unfortunately I see the rationalists losing it again as all the three major parties have failed miserably to stand up and show leadership on this matter. Where Liberals and Greens have said it straight Labor has used a politically clever word ‘sustainable’. I don’t think the opposition or anyone in Australia will promote ‘unsustainable’ anything.

The question of population has to be attached to the future of Australia, individual prosperity and infrastructure. Any argument that dilutes the cause and effect is inappropriate and clearly driven for short term political gains.

We have a fast ageing society. By 2020, over 55 and under 14 will be about 45% of our population, this will leave about 13 million people in the working population category. If we then remove the number of pregnant women, unwell, unemployed and in transition, we are left with about 8 to 9 million of workforce. Our elderly will have no choice but to either extend their working lives or bear the stress of lack of care.

It will be a great disservice to the millions of senior Australians who have built this great nation when we fail in our duty of care. We have to ensure that our aged care centres and our hospitals are properly and adequately staffed. We will also have to ensure that our future generation is taken care off. That will mean increased investments in childcare and education.

We have one of the lowest unemployment in the world and that is not going to change in the near future because of the reasons explained. So how are we then going to ensure continued growth? How will businesses expand and compete with the rest of the world when they may not have the required human resources?

It is thus, no surprise that we now have an ever increasing number of foreign guest workers on visa categories such as 457. The business logic is pretty simple, they want to manufacture and develop products onshore as much as possible. In order to do so and export to countries with populations much higher than ours they have to hire the best even if it means importing people.

We are riding one of the biggest and longest price booms. The property prices, which have been corrected and revised in most of the other countries, have not been touched in Australia. This has increased individual prosperity and growth. It is welcome and everyone wants continued growth. But let us not forget that this is also underwritten by foreign money brought in by migrants. An average foreign student contributes about $30,000 per year. They pay for getting the skills required by Australian industry and upon meeting their criteria are given a right to stay back. This right is not a political necessity but a need. As these graduates then become productive employees who have no right to access the centre link benefits for the first couple of years. In addition they buy houses, cars, food, fuel etc. They also use public infrastructure. But they do not do it for free. In fact they are some of the lowest paid, longest working and most productive workers any developed nation can find.

Does it then serve us to offend and dismiss our customers as an obligation? This is like they say, ‘the biggest problem with public transport is people. If we don’t have passengers trains will run on time’.

Blaming customers is a sign of lazy management. Our lazy politicians, clueless bureaucrats have created a situation where their purpose is solved by keeping common citizens engaged in an empty and meaningless battle so that we cannot question them for their lack of vision and productivity.

I personally think that an active and smart migration program is essential to the continued prosperity of Australia and every Australian. Let us not forget that majority of our Prime Ministers and CEO’s – including Ms Julia Gillard are direct foreign imports. I don’t think that Ms Gillard or Mr Abbott have contributed any lesser to anyone who will claim to be born in Australia to Australian parents.

Another statistic reality is that even now the highest immigration is from New Zealand and United Kingdom. Are we talking about reducing growth from only Asia and Africa or does it include UK and NZ?

Let us bring fairness into our daily lives as we pledge as part of our national anthem ‘Advance Australia Fair’.

Population – Problems & Possibilities – Ana Tiwary

Ana Tiwary is  a  filmmaker  based in Sydney and runs a production company called ‘inDiVisual  films’ that  specializes in creating multi-cultural content – features, documentaries and  TV programs.

I am no population expert, but I have travelled and lived in many different cities of different sizes around the world and have seen the impact of population on every aspect of life – be it socio-economic, political or environmental. For example, on the one hand travelling in jam-packed local trains in Mumbai is a daunting task but on the other hand for a filmmaker like me, this teeming city offers endless opportunities in a thriving industry. People who have lived in Mumbai often say that the energy of the city is electric and that a sense of ‘endless possibilities’ supersedes any overwhelming stress of wading one’s way through oceans of people. Before we get caught up in any romantic notions about ‘maximum city’ and it’s booming economy, lets be very clear that Mumbai is not sustainable and poses a whole range of challenges especially for 60% of the population that lives on less than 8% of Mumbai’s land area, in ever-growing slums. However to put things in perspective the population of Greater Mumbai is almost equal to the entire population of Australia. So there is plenty of time to research, plan and implement a population policy that ensures Melbourne does not become Mumbai in the foreseeable future.

‘Sustainable population growth’ are the buzz words this election season and it is being implied by our politicians and media that ‘large’ is ‘unsustainable’. The economic argument being presented does not hold much water because a larger population will bring in more tax money that can then be used in building the infrastructure needed to sustain it. Moreover, the ageing population of Australia and various industries such as the mining sector need young working migrants to support them. As far as the environmental discussions surrounding the debate goes, we need a more global approach because environment is something that concerns the entire planet and cannot be confined within national boundaries. ‘Sustainable’ should mean more than just economic and environmental sustainability. What about socio-cultural sustainability?

If immigrants feel alienated or discriminated against, it will lead to social segregation and unrest. These are vital socio-cultural issues that seem to be missing from our conversations about population.

Overall it is a complex problem, so if I had to pick between a small or a large population policy – I would pick neither. ‘Large’ and ‘small’ are relative terms and do not leave room for discussion about integration of immigrants. If population growth is managed properly, even a large population can be sustainable. In fact, in many small towns across Australia, a small population is unsustainable, but nobody seems to be making that an election issue. The debate should not be just about numbers, but about how immigrants, whether they come in large or small numbers will be assimilated into Australian mainstream society. Some argue that slower levels of immigration spread over several decades will help ease pressures of assimilation. However, the fact that even after hundreds of years, our indigenous communities are not part of mainstream Australia tells a different story. So it is not a matter of time or how slow immigration happens but a drastic change in attitude towards other cultures is needed.

Some sections of our society think of immigrants as people who are here only to take and exploit their host nation. I believe that migrants are in fact the most under-utilized resource that Australia has. Migrants bring with them valuable knowledge, expertise, ideas, culture, creativity and unique ways of doing things, which if given a chance can enrich their adopted land. Migrants make enormous contributions to this nation, but go unnoticed and unappreciated. Lack of representation of minority communities in media and politics is a major concern. Also the pressure to assimilate and give up their cultural identity makes it harder for migrants to fully realise their potential. On the issue of assimilation, the ‘melting pot’ notion whereby all migrant cultures must give up their culture and adopt the mainstream culture and values to fit in, has long been discarded in the US in
favour of the ‘salad plate’ concept, by which all communities are welcome to express their unique cultural heritage while sharing a sense of belonging to one country.

A dynamic and forward moving society is open and embraces the new. A shrinking and regressive society fears and rejects the new. Australia has all the resources to be a nation of excellence and success. But to be that nation, that society, it needs to have the cultural resources of attitude to be open and confident towards others and the global environment.

My request to our policy makers would be that even if they decide to keep our Nations doors half shut, that their hearts and minds remain fully open. That even if we go for a small population – let us ensure that we bring in people from all cultures, races and religions. Lets hope that Australia can move forward from intolerance to not just tolerance but celebration of diversity and open to greater possibilities for this society by embracing newness and difference. Let us not forget that this land belonged to the indigenous peoples of Australia until very recently in its history, and that every one of us who today lives their life on this soil owes the beauty of it to those people who cared for it for thousands of years before us.

Sustainable Population is a bad concept – Mark Sharma

Mark Sharma is contesting as an independent candidate for the Federal seat of Watson.

How can you write about something that does not even exist? Sustainable population is a concept created by two most undeserving politicians of Australia called Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott. They created this phenomenon because their job is at stake. They need to win this election and for that they need to win marginal seats like Lindsay that revolves around Western End of Sydney called Penrith.  Those who don’t know about Penrith it is a predominantly Anglo Saxon area where white Australians are not so use to of seeing ethnics. I’m sure you can find an odd Indian or Chinese there but it is reasonable to say it is predominantly white area. Now I’m not saying these white Australians are racist but the reality is that some of them don’t have full information about immigration and it’s relation to economy so when they happen to see some more ethnics then usual they get worried. Labor and Liberals keep track of these things on a regular basis because after all it’s a marginal seat. When these things reach Headquarters the big boy’s at these party offices sit down and think of ways to win next election. The obvious answer is to look “strong on border protection” and the rest you all have seen on TV and Media.

Reality is that Australia’s massive ageing population and the fact that more women in this country are working and delaying child birth means we have a huge shortage of next generation of workers. Now, I don’t have anything against women or their choices but the indirect fallout from it is that we need new workers and we need them now. In that scenario Skilled Immigration is the only choice. Prime Minister Julia Gillard is the perfect example of it. She is not married and doesn’t have kids which is fine because it’s her life however her not having kids means someone else has to fill that gap.

Conservative Tony Abbott thinks that he can increase Australia’s population by bribing women with Paid Parental leave but I doubt it will increase birth rate. John Howard tried the same thing with Baby Bonuses but it did not work and it will never work because it’s just not possible to have a happy life, kids, mortgage, and full time job all at the same time all the time. Some people do but if you ask them they will tell you how many sacrifices they have to make. And I don’t think everybody wants to make those sacrifices.

Ultimately only immigration will work. The business sector realizes this and is already up in arms against immigration cuts. Political parties also know this but they are quiet till elections are over. I believe once elections are over regardless who is Prime Minister the immigration will be back to same levels by July 2011 but in the mean time it is genuine applicants who came to Australia on good faith and Australian Economy that will suffer. I can’t just sit at home and let world fall apart around me. I’ve decided to take matters in my own hand and I’m standing in elections as an Independent against Tony Burke who is Julia Gillard’s poster boy for Sustainable Population. I’ve challenged him through media to have an open debate with me on Sustainable Population and I’m taking my message across my electorate of Watson. It is imperative for all of us to take a strong stand against this politics of divide that the leaders of the major parties are taking up. It is high time that the Indian community in Australia start taking active role in the Politics of our country Australia. Just paying taxes and partying to Bhangra on weekends doesn’t make you an ideal citizen. But doing the right thing for marginalized groups and the nation’s economy does. God Bless Australia and India!

Power is in numbers -  Partha Mukherjee

Partha Mukherjee is an IIT and IIM Ahmedabad Graduate and now lives in Sydney.

What is this debate about sustainability, based on population?

The proponent of small Australia believes that Australia is almost full and the opponents feel it’s largely empty.

The proponents of small Australia argue that Australia is already full based on many measures like water, agricultural and grazing land, marine resources etc. The opponents of small Australia argue that Australia is largely empty in population which is about 2.3 human per Sq KM compared to 236 in UK, 221 in Germany or 275 in India.

I suppose the battle is going to be won not by logic but by overcoming the emotions.

The emotional issues are mostly fear factors that leads one to believe that, “New migrants are going to come and take over some of my space. More people will be competing for my jobs. Roads will be crowded. Property market will see price rise.  Trains will be full and super market car parks will be always Chocó block”. The fear seems genuine.

Then what’s the solution?

First some logic.

Australian economy grew by 40% in last nine years. China and India achieved that in less than half that time. US and Europe has robust economic base. We depend on export of resources.

The point is, if Australia does not grow faster we won’t enjoy our existing comforts for long. It’s like living in grandfather’s house that never got upgraded. The cost of goods and services will never come down as the overheads will not get absorbed by more people. The choices will be limited, as the market cannot absorb more. It is a low-growth trap.

We need economic solution as part of sustainable Australia along with emotional cushions. It will create more jobs, more facilities, lower prices, larger spread of availability, better technology, better future for our children and the list is long.

To become a large economy we need large population. Export cannot substitute the domestic consumption.

Recently good retail consumption helped us fight the global recession. Consumption is a proven model. Consumption led growth can continue with Systematic Investment in Population (SIP). It’s about quality and planning.

We need quality immigrants, matching the needs of every sector. Not only good doctors and smart engineers but we need the best talents in very walks of life. Be it a tradesman, a mining labour, a performing artist, or a super sportsman. Let’s populate Australia with the best talents from the world.

The other issue is emotive. We want to protect our existing comforts and lifestyle.

Unfortunately that balance hasn’t happened till now. Since 1996, GDP grew by 13.4% but GPI (Genuine Progress Indicator) grew by only 3.6%, a clear indication of “lagging” infrastructures and not a “leading strategy”.

What we need is a Plan for infrastructure expansion before expansion of population. Don’t we prepare a new baby room at home before the new born arrives? It is the same.

We do not want to see new immigrants brought in first and then try to fix problems of overload.  We want to see pre-planned “growth centres”. Cities are crowded but not our country.

We do not want to see burden on existing infrastructure, so that we maintain the comforts of the small Australia.

Sounds idealistic but most visions are simple dreams and clear wish lists.

I call it “Peripheral Planning”.  Plan new Australia at the periphery of the current.

We build extra bedroom when the son gets married. Nation building is no different.

Lastly, a large Australia is not a wish list but a necessity for national security. With current national army size we will not be able to defend ourselves in the wake of any invasion or war.

Population Matters. Power is in numbers.

IT’S ONLY FARAH FOR KATRINA

Amidst much fanfare Geoff Marsh was appointed the Head Coach of the new IPL franchise, Sahara Pune Warriors on 5 July 2010 at Lucknow. Soon after his appointment the former Australian opener and world cup winning coach spoke exclusively to the Indian. Here are excerpts from the freewheeling conversation:

Boria- Geoff, many congratulations. Why IPL and what will you bring to the table?

Geoff- The IPL is the most exciting thing to happen to world cricket in recent times. It has changed the way cricket is perceived and organized, given the players a whole new outlook and can serve as motivation for generations of cricketers who look at cricket as a profession. It is a professional league where excellence is the ultimate ambition and I’d like to contribute in any way I can. My sons have both played in the IPL and have repeatedly mentioned to me how exciting the competition is and I am delighted that I will now be able to experience it firsthand.

Boria- A number of IPL teams have high profile coaches in their ranks. Some of them have done well while others like Buchanan have failed. What will Geoff Marsh do that is different?

Geoff- Look cricket is a simple game and I will keep it simple for my players. I have only one ethic- work hard. When we entered the cricket scene more than two decades earlier in Australia we were a struggling side. We had one ambition to start with- we wanted to become the best fielding side in the world. And to achieve our goal we could work as hard as we needed to. We put in the hours and got the results. In the process our batting and bowling also improved. There is absolutely no alternative to hard work and I’d tell my boys to follow this simple work ethic.

Boria- You have coached a high profile Australian team and you have been greatly successful as a coach. But this is different isn’t it, many and in fact the majority are young Indian players who are yet to make the grade. How will you deal with them?

Geoff- I am aware of the challenges and am not for once saying that it will be an easy task. But as a professional it has never been easy for anyone. The IPL is also meant to strengthen the foundations of the game in India and we at Sahara Pune Warriors will do our best to do so. Getting to work with youngsters is always a fantastic opportunity for any cricket coach and I’d relish this opportunity I can tell you that. It is like creating something fantastic and what more can you ask for than to be able to create something unique in the world’s most passionate cricket playing country.

Boria- Have you targeted any player—so you have anyone specific in mind to lead your side?

Geoff- It all depends on the BCCI you see. We are all awaiting to find out what the BCCI decides about the retention policy. We at Sahara are very keen that retention be done away with and all players go into an open auction pool. If this doesn’t happen we will have to start at a disadvantage. Allowing franchises to retain players will place us in great difficulty in fielding a competitive team and can even impact upon the standard of the tournament. We have already informed the BCCI about our demand and are confident the BCCI will look into the principle of fair play and natural justice and do away with the retention policy for this year at least.

Boria- And what about the money the players make? Some say there is too much money in IPL that is spoiling the game?

Geoff- Too much of anything is harmful. For me the IPL is a top draw cricket competition and you should treat it as such. There is no harm in the players making money but always they ought to remember that they are players before anything else and their job is to play cricket and entertain the fans and the viewers. Money and all else will come naturally later. This is something my team will follow as a matter of policy. With reference to the players at the auction it is once again a matter for the BCCI to decide whether there will be  cap of not. We will follow whatever they decide.

Boria- And what about burnout? Playing cricket at 45 degrees heat is simply mad isn’t it and from 2011 chances are teams will play 18 games each in 49 days?

Geoff- Yes its tough but you must remember that the burn out is caused more by what the body endures with a hectic travel schedule, logistics issues and all else. Normally players practice 3 hours a day and a 20-20 match is only 3 hours of effort in the middle. So more than the matches, careful and well thought about scheduling can reduce the burden of players. Also, we are told that the BCCI is thinking of fixing an upper limit for each player on the number of matches a player can play. We will have to see how things unfold and then take a call. But rotation is surely something we will follow. There have been many squads where players haven’t got a chance to play and this has often resulted in discord. Even international players haven’t been given enough matches. If you follow a carefully crafted rotation policy you can surely reduce the possibility of burn out.

Boria- Will Mitchell and Sean now play for Sahara?

Geoff- They will be treated like any other player and if they fit into the scheme of things for the team we will surely pick them. But they will never be offered any special treatment.

Boria- Digressing from the IPL a little I’d want to know what your take is on the John Howard issue? It has snowballed into a major crisis and almost divided world cricket down the middle between the white and the coloured blocks?

Geoff- Look for me the matter is simple. John Howard was nominated by Australia and New Zealand for a job. For some reason, I don’t want to go into details, he was found wanting and unacceptable by the majority of the members present. Now it is on Australia to respect the verdict and move on and nominate someone else. You can’t politicize an issue like this beyond a point. I am told that Mark Taylor is being looked upon as the new candidate. I have seen and played with Mark and can tell you he will be a great choice. If more and more cricketers come into cricket administration it will only be good for the game in the long run.

Boria- My final question—have you been following the BCCI-Lalit Modi affair and does it bother you at all?

Geoff- I have been reading about it in the media just as anyone else but it doesn’t bother me much. It is an internal matter of the BCCI and as far as I am concerned my job is related to the cricketing aspect of the IPL which is always going to be sacrosanct. So no it doesn’t affect me in anyway.

The Visa Capping Bill, 2010, to amend the Migration Act of 1958 has stirred up a hornet’s nest for international student and general skilled migration applicants in Australia. Tabled with the Senate on 26 May 2010, the bill provides powers to Minister of Immigration to cap visa grants and terminate visa applications based on the class or classes of applicant applying for the visa (read Skilled Occupation List Codes). This is opposed to current
powers available with the Minister under the The Migration Act 1958.  Presently the Minister can cap and terminate all applications for a certain class or subclass of visa.

One reason for the misgivings is that a large section of applicants believe that the bill will be applied retrospectively and would make their applications null and void. Adding fuel to their misgivings is the fact that PR application processing for candidates not in Critical Skill List or not sponsored by employers or a state is on hold since last 15-16 months when the recession peaked. In fact seen retrospectively the immigration landscape has changed furtively since the past two years. The critical list is now abolished and new skills list has come in place. New skills list reduces the number of occupation from 400 to around 180. Government emphasis on Employer Nominated Scheme is to ensure that candidates employed in relevant occupations get the benefit of PR. While this intent is right, what it misses out is that candidates employed in Small Businesses find it hard to get Employer Sponsorship. Employers have to meet a number of legal requirements for providing sponsorship and most would rather give it a slip then take the pain.

PR applicant, Pawan Kumar, when questioned about the bill, mentioned that the bill is well within the rights of the government, if it is implemented prospectively. However in student circles there is a widespread feeling that government intentions are not clear and a fear that the bill will be implemented retrospectively. Relating his own personal experience he mentioned that he had come to Australia as a student of Hospitality after completing a degree in law. He chose Hospitality as it was an occupation in demand and provided a pathway to Permanent Residency. He diligently completed his studies and applied for PR more than a year back. However, he has not seen any progress on him application till date and is fearful of the implications of the bill.

Suman Lata, a student of hairdressing agrees with Pawan Kumar’s perspective that the bill should be applied prospectively. Citing her example, she mentions that she chose Hairdressing for studies only after knowing that it
provided a pathway to Permanent Residency. If she had known that there would be change in rules midway, she would have chosen an alternative course. Already her one brother is settled here and his presence provided the impetus for her to pursue settlement in Australia. She is categorical that she could have chosen an alternative stream of studies as she has been a good student. Studies in hairdressing is not a great career option for India
and neither is it good for your status.

Students concern about the Visa Capping issue is also shared by Sukhjinder Singh, an immigration consultant. He feels that this is a retrograde legislation whose likes have not been seen in any other country of the world. Its applicability on retrospective basis would be akin to kicking years of planning and sacrifice of the students to dust. He cited example of many students who have left their newborn in India and came over to study in Australia
with the motive of getting a PR. They have given the best years of their life for this goal and they could have invested their money and time alternatively in a more fruitful manner.

UIA is well aware of the misgiving among the students and has impressed upon the government to

1. Review the Visa Capping Bill and prolong the consultation process for at least six months or more to fully understand the financial and social impact on the Australian economy.
2. Make sufficient transitional arrangements for the students affected by the changes in SOL as:
• To consider students working in their areas of specialisation for GSM applications rather than pushing them to apply through the ENS scheme• The duration of 885 Visa be increased from 18 months to 3 years
• To reduce the salary threshold for ENS from $45,000 to $25,000
• To consider those applications that do not come under the new SOL for GSM visas in regional/ rural Australia.

Dr Moninder Singh, Secretary of UIA speaks passionately about being considerate towards the intent of the students while devising the new policy. To ask them to be earning around 45,000 AUD in relevant occupation is far
beyond normative earning levels for students. Taking TAFE students as norms, in most occupations, hourly wage rate is around AUD 16.50 which translated into 38 hour weekly work hours, translates to about 34,000 AUD – far below the 45,000 AUD set by government. He also feels that if regional / rural area occupation is made necessary for those unable to get sponsorship, it will ensure a demographic shift meeting Government Intentions and providing an avenue for students to get their PR. However, he does not sees much progress on the issue till elections are conducted and a new government comes in power. In the meantime he is actively seeking cases
where students have made a positive impact after completing their studies and are contributing to Australian economy, society on a model basis.

As the consultation process on the Visa Capping Bill is still in progress it is hoped that the voice of the students and community leaders would reach the leaders in Canberra and a right balance would be achieved in meeting Australia’s needs and aspirations of the students. Australia as other developing countries is well aware that its shrinking organic population growth can only be sustained by bringing in immigrants who contribute to GDP and would sustain its aging population. Immigration policy is really an incentive for attracting the right talent, but it also needs to recognize that once intent is established avenues for migration would definitely be found. The same persons who were earlier coming for Hospitality courses will tomorrow come in other trade occupations. This has been realized by countries across the world and Australia would definitely awaken to this reality.

I am not an international student in Australia. Nor am I a consultant, lawyer or migration agent. But, as a first generation migrant to Australia I am perplexed, concerned, appalled and disappointed at the handling of the Migration Amendment (Visa Capping) Bill 2010. The government seems to have developed a proclivity to make a mess of sensitive issues (eg Emissions Trading Scheme, people smuggling, resources tax, etc). On 26 May 2010 the Migration Amendment (Visa Capping) Bill 2010 (the ‘Bill’) was introduced into the Parliament. The legislation seeks to fine tune existing laws so that it will better address Australia’s skills shortages by limiting the number of general skilled migration visas able to be granted to applicants whose occupations are in oversupply, thereby leaving more spaces in the program available to applicants whose occupation is in demand. The
Migration Act 1958 currently provides the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship with the power to cap and terminate all applications for a certain class or subclass of visa. The new Bill proposes to allow the Minister to cap and terminate applications based on certain objective characteristics, rather than having to cap an entire subclass or class of visas.

The Minister for Immigration, Chris Evans, on a recent interview over the radio was critical of  the hysterical and inflammatory reception the Bill received and tried to reassure people that the new powers would only be used sparingly. In justifying the proposals, Senator Chris Evans cited the case of more than 4,000 visa applications for chefs and cooks that was granted under the migration program in 2007-08 yet there were still critical shortages in the catering industry. This indicated that majority of these people were not working as either cooks or chefs. Although the Minister has a valid point, I came across a lot of criticism, concerns, anguish and
anger on the streets of Sydney and the internet. One critic was Dinesh Weerakkody (dweerakkody@ hotmail.com), a practicing Australian Solicitor & a Barrister at Oates Rennick & Associates in Melbourne. Dinesh was forthcoming with his views and has been organising a petition to the Federal Parliament in protest against the draconian Bill. He was particularly vexed by the lack of human consideration and inadequate consultation by the
government (have we not heard of this before?).

UM: What are the changes in the proposed Bill?
DW: In general the changes we have seen in the recent past were unprecedented and overwhelming. Changes were overdue and we welcome some of the changes and we appreciate the need to change and to streamline the process. But, we are alarmed at the lack of consideration for human life and for lack of transitionary arrangements. There has hardly been any consultation with the migration advice professionals regarding the changes. This is highly regrettable.

UM: What is the aim of the Bill?
DW: The purpose of the Bill is to enable the Minister to cap and terminate visas. The Minister’s powers to Cap and Cease could be applied not only to Skilled Migration visa classes, but to all classes of visas. For example, if the minister decides that a certain number of accountants (or cooks) are required for in a year (e.g. 1,000 accountants in 2010 – this will be the cap), all applications lodged after reaching this limit may be ceased and application fee refunded. Even the law council of Australia has opposed the Bill. This can have far reaching adverse effects. An example is if a permanent partner visa application were capped and ceased, an applicant’s temporary
partner visa would be ineffective, thus requiring the applicant to depart Australia. The results may cause permanent separation of families.

UM: What are the repercussions among Indian students in particular?
DW: Most students are confused and shocked.  Migration Law in general is confusing but with the changes most students find themselves at a loss unable to decide the future course of action. The anxiety levels and the stress levels of the students are at a peak. There are even threats of potential suicide.

UM: What do you propose to do? What can concerned people do?
DW: We have made submissions to the senate Legal and Constitutional Committee and the last date was 18 June 2010. Further we have created a petition which will be submitted to the Parliament. (You will have no repercussions by signing this even if you are temporary residents). Please go to www.dlegal.com.au and sign and forward this petition to all your friends all over the world to sign. A petition is a request for action. It is the
only way an individual can put forward grievances directly before the Parliament. If I have substantial amount of signatures from all over the world it will add more power to the petition. The petition will also be submitted to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister and to the Leader of Opposition. We will submit the same to any interested party. The Bill does seem unfair as the Minister could change the goal posts and  undermine the plans and aspirations of individuals. In economic parlance, a free market should allow labour (like capital or investments) to flow based on demand- supply and other economic factors, rather than micromanage and direct it at the discretion of a handful of individuals. Further, the basic tenets of consultation and cooperation in a democratic society country appear to be lacking. As citizens and residents of a democratic
country we should voice our thoughts so that the Government acts responsibly. You could write to the Minister for Immigration: Senator Chris Evans, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600 or email him at senator.evans@aph.gov.au.