Dutton is right to fly the flag for unity in a divided nation

Dutton is right to fly the flag for unity in a divided nation

Peta Credlin points to the divisive nature of Anthony Albanese and his ministers standing before three separate flags at ministerial press conferences, even when overseas (“Why Dutton is right to fly one flag for unity”, 12/12). All three have a presence in the Senate chamber and in “the other place” as well. The anomaly was on full display at the King’s official reception in federal parliament’s Great Hall. Six of 10 flags that formed the backdrop to the podium were Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. It is likely that Anthony Albanese made the three-flag call in the expectation of a Yes vote at the voice referendum. With its demise the Australian people have sent a message to government that they want all citizens to abide by a single code and, by extension, a single banner.

Kim Keogh, Claremont, WA

Peter Dutton is right in calling for the display of the Australian flag alone at events, rather than including Indigenous flags.

However, in the spirit of reconciliation, perhaps we as a nation need to resolve four outstanding issues. First, our flag should be modernised to delete the Union Jack from the top left corner. Run a competition, open to all Australians, for a new flag, perhaps incorporating the many colours of Australia contained within an outline map of the country surrounded by blue ocean.

Second, move Australia Day back to the last Monday in January. That would overcome the productivity-sapping longer weekend taken by many when it falls midweek, and would signify the end of the Xmas/January holiday times and the return to school. Thirdly, let’s get a modern national anthem. Advance Australia Fair is a bit embarrassing. “I am one but we are many” by the Seekers stands out. Now adopting all those as policy would show real leadership, Mr Dutton.

Ian Morison, Forrest, ACT

Funding childcare

The Albanese government is to offer subsidised childcare for families on incomes up to $530,000. One benefit supposedly is to encourage the greater participation of women in the workforce. For families who choose to have one parent in the home to raise and educate their own children, they will not receive this benefit. However, they can claim family tax benefits A and B, as long as their family incomes remain below the thresholds. The entire benefit A stops (for one child) at $122,190. For benefit B it’s $117,194. When will a government have the mettle to give all families the same benefit and let them choose whether to use the funds for their own household costs or choose to fund childcare costs themselves.

Gerard Abrams, Cherrybrook, NSW

Bowen’s light-bulb

Two weeks ago, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said: “The biggest threat to reliability in our energy system is coal-fired power stations.” But now it’s a case of “count me in”, with Bowen backing new powers allowing states to mandate the extension of retiring coal-fired power plants to ensure reliability of supply and to avoid the risk of blackouts (“Bowen’s reliance on coal slammed”, 12/12). Could it be that Bowen, who constantly rambles on about renewable energy being the most reliable form of power, has had a light-bulb moment?

Maybe, he’s suddenly realised that because they are entirely dependent on the wind always blowing and the sun always shining, renewables are hopeless when it comes to providing reliable, always-on power. Yet, we shouldn’t hold our breath. After all, Anthony Albanese is on record as saying: “I don’t think there’s a place for coal-fired power stations in Australia, full stop.” Still, Bowen’s pivot towards coal is a clue that he knows Labor is on a loser with its transition to renewables. It’ll cost a bomb and it won’t work.

Dale Ellis, Innisfail, Qld

Gratitude for Israel

Israel is at the forefront of the fight against terrorism, standing alone against dangerous groups that threaten peace worldwide. Its efforts to stop Iran-backed terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Shiite militias in Iraq, deserve recognition and support. These groups are not just local threats – they are part of Iran’s plan to spread instability regionally and globally. Israel’s actions, including its recent strikes in Syria, are crucial for preventing advanced weapons from reaching extremists.

By destroying Syrian naval ships and military stockpiles, Israel is stopping missiles, drones, chemical weapons and tanks from being used by Islamist terrorists such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham or other ISIS-like groups. As now acknowledged by security officials in the US and UK, Israel’s efforts protect not only its own citizens but also the wider world. While some governments, for domestic political reasons, may criticise Israel, the world should thank Israel and support its mission.

John Kempler, Rose Bay, NSW