Two political experts from Charles Sturt University (CSU) in regional NSW have welcomed the formation of a government after the recent Federal election.

 

“The minority Labor government is not a surprising outcome given the conversations that the regionally based independents, The Hon. Mr Bob Oakeshott and The Hon. Mr Tony Windsor, have had over past 17 days.  But The Hon. Mr Bob Katter’s decision to back the Coalition was a great surprise,” said CSU political commentator, Dr Troy Whitford, based in Wagga Wagga.

 

“We can expect the House of Representatives to pass legislation at a much slower rate given the high degree of consultation (Prime Minister) Gillard will be required to undertake. Not only will she have the ‘country independents’ to appease but she will also have to answer to the Greens.”

 

Dr Whitford said the independents had chosen sides, and they will soon learn it is tougher being in Government than being a fence line independent.

 

“Now that the independents have taken sides they will share in the responsibility of the highlights and lowlights experienced by government. I am also keen to see what additional deal Mr Oakeshott is considering, whether it is as Minister for Regional Development or Speaker of the House of Representatives.  Either role will see him undergo greater national scrutiny.”

 

Dr Whitford applauded the bringing of rural issues at the forefront of the independents’ deal making.  “If the independents are successful in delivering better services and facilities to regional areas then it may encourage other electorates to vote ‘independent’, but it will really depend on how well they perform now they are in the spotlight,” he said.