Keith Wolahan (Menzies, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The way we practise democracy matters. The power of our example is a strategic asset. This week millions of Victorians will vote in our state election. I rise to comment on the way we get there.

Last Saturday in Melbourne, two rallies took place. One saw a candidate stand on the steps of Flinders Street Station and make a clear reference to political violence. It was made worse by associating the offensive term with army veterans. This rhetoric is totally unacceptable, has no place in our democracy and is not who we are.

The second was a gathering of thousands of Iranian Australians in Carlton, who keep turning up for women, life and freedom. There were no threats of violence. Instead, we saw peaceful and passionate condemnation of real violence in their home country, where young women not only stand up to bullies but stand up to bullets. We can learn from them and do better. This includes toning down hyperbole. This includes resisting the urge to portray our political opponents as cartoon villains, or worse. This includes putting our case with passion and respect and knowing that, in a free and fair election, Victorians will make the right decision. The way we practise democracy matters, and we can all do better.