By Nick Chapman, Independent NSW candidate for the Australian Senate
A politician’s job is to represent the people, and run the country for the national interest.
But who is holding them to account? How do we ensure transparency? How do we restore trust in the system?
I believe trust in our political system is vital for a healthy society. We need to know our politicians are working in our interests; not their own, their parties, or vested interests. We need to trust that the national interest is always put first.
Also, I believe we need to get more direct involvement in the political process to improve our democracy.
We need reform in the political arena.
There are a number of reforms that I will push for as an independent senator:
• Establishment of a Federal ICAC to investigate government corruption.
• Investigation of Peoples Referendums. An example: Any citizen proposed law with a certain number of signatures (eg 100,000) would be voted on in the following federal election. If passed it would need to be implemented within 12 months. (Similar systems operate in Switzerland and US states).
• Donations reform. Organisations should not be allowed to donate to politicians. All donations must be personal only and publicly accessible. Politicians represent the people, not vested interests or organisations.
• Parliament should have fixed 4-year terms with fixed election dates to allow governments to spend more time governing and less time plotting and electioneering.
• The rules within the political expenses system need to be simpler and all expenses must be publicly accessible in real time.
• Removal of above the line voting in the Senate as it favours incumbents and major parties, and disadvantages new political entrants and independents. Parties would still be able to group their candidates, but it would be up to the people to choose their candidates directly.
These reforms will provide a more democratic and open political system so politicians can represent the people in a transparent manner. It is about building trust in the political system.
Personally, I am also committed to ensuring the people I represent can provide direct input on the current issues of the day and their ideas for a healthy society. These days social media and other tools make connecting with people easy – politicians have no excuses!
That’s my thoughts on improving trust in the political system. I believe this is core to improving our democracy, and therefore the quality of public policy.
What do you think needs to change in our political system?
About Nick Chapman: Nick is a consultant whose experience includes working in Canada and the UK. Nick values freedom, respect, integrity and innovation and believes in policies that benefit society as a whole. Nick stands for:
• A fair economy for a healthy society
• An independent check on government power
• Individual freedom and individual responsibility
• Political transparency
Find out more at www.nickchapman.org
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