by Leonard J Sherrott

Created on: March 22, 2010

The national leader of any country has a duty to protect both its population and its international reputation. Had the Australian prime minister not been forthright in his condemnation of the attacks, he would by default be signaling that such behavior is acceptable in the community.  The ramifications would be extreme and widespread.  From time to time, matters of national importance are highlighted by the bi-partisan concern expressed. On this occasions there was no banter about political accountability or what the government should have done or could have done better. 

Let’s be clear on one point at this juncture.  At no time did a state or Federal leader concede that the attacks were racial or targeted at any particular minority group. The motivation behind the violence was not clearly established, hence it is difficult to be conclusive about the object of the attacks. Nevertheless, the very act has to be condemned as one would hope by every reasonable individual, not just politicians.

Thousands of overseas students arrive in Australia each year primarily from Asia, India and Europe to attend our universities and colleges, bringing enormous revenue to the education system. The additional financial benefit to the tourism infrastructure is insurmountable. Accommodation is usually a three year minimum tenancy with annual visits home during the Christmas break. Every weekend potentially offers an opportunity for a day trip to one of our many places of interest. Some students will even consider returning with their degree to live and work in Australia. The value of having a young knowledge base to drive our industries cannot be overstated.  All of this is suddenly at risk if the stench of violence is allowed to permeate unchecked in our otherwise friendly society. For these youngsters the seriousness is obviously magnified by a perception that students are being targeted.    

Australians travel overseas every day and with the aid of modern technology, bad news travels a lot faster. We  want to feel secure in a foreign country. Our sportsmen and women are entitled to fbe safe too, while representing their country in global competitions. The onus of maintaining and promoting our high standards to the world belongs to every individual. The responsibility of ensuring our human rights record is at a world acceptable level lies squarely on the shoulders of our elected parliamentary representative, not unlike any other civilized nation. It must start with public condemnation of any form of  violence.  

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