The community wants an ICAC says Leonard
Deb Leonard has called out the current member on his views about the need for a Federal integrity commission.
Independent candidate for Monash, Deb Leonard has called out the current Federal Minister, Russell Broadbent, on his views about the need for a Federal integrity commission.
On April 17, The Age reported that Mr Broadbent was one of seven Liberal MPs who expressed scepticism that a Federal ICAC was a top-order issue for voters.
Ms Leonard says she has been out talking to thousands of people in the community and is hearing there is strong support for a Federal ICAC.
“Corruption in politics is undermining just about every other decision being made on our behalf – including decisions about roads, infrastructure and climate action,” Ms Leonard says.
“The people of our community know this, and they want integrity in government and a robust Federal Anti-Corruption Commission.”
As part of its candidate selection process, Ms Leonard said Voices for Monash surveyed its members about policy priorities and establishing a robust Federal ICAC was among the top responses.
In The Age article, Mr Broadbent said voters had not raised the issue with him.
However Ms Leonard says she has sighted an email from a member of the Monash community to Mr Broadbent dated October 10, 2021 raising the specific issue of a Federal ICAC. This email was acknowledged with a reply from Mr Broadbent’s office.
On Sunday, Ms Leonard asked people whether they were for or against a Federal ICAC via her Facebook page. At the time of this publication, there are over 40 replies in favour and nil against.
“The community is concerned that the lack of accountability in government is resulting in misuse of public funds, and decisions being made against the interests of the community,” Ms Leonard said.
“It is clear that our leaders are not acting in the best interests of voters.”
