The Coalition has announced a plan to protect our war memorials, Australia Day and the Australian flag.
In recent months, Australians have seen war memorials vandalised, anti-Australian slogans sprayed across commemorative sites and the Australian flag burned at protests.
Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP said Australians should be able to take pride in their country and our rich history.
“I’m proud to call Australia home, and I know so many people across Hinkler are too,” Mr Batt said. “That means standing up for our national day, our national flag and the memorials that honour Australians who served and sacrificed for our country.”
Interim results from Hinkler’s Biggest Survey show 86% of respondents support Australia Day being celebrated on January 26,” Mr Batt said.
“Pride in our flag is also very strong across Hinkler.”
The Coalition will:
- Introduce serious penalties for deliberately damaging war memorials and other significant national monuments.
- Protect Australia Day on 26 January, with any future change requiring the approval of Australians through a national plebiscite.
- Create a criminal offence for serious public desecration of the Australian flag, especially where it will incite hatred or violence.
Mr Batt said protecting these symbols is about protecting the values and history they represent.
“If we don’t stand up for the things that bring Australians together, we risk losing them.
“Local war memorials like those in ANZAC Park in Bundaberg, the Hervey Bay Light Horse Memorial in Freedom Park and the Krupp Cannon Memorial in Childers carry the names of people from our region who left their families to serve Australia and they deserve our protection.”
This measure forms part of the LNP’s plan to fix the economy and protect our way of life.
“Our plan is focused on four immediate priorities. Lower taxes, cheaper power, less migration and more homes, while putting Australians first.” Mr Batt said.
“We believe Australia and our way of life is worth fighting for.”
The popular (and free) ‘Proud of our Flag’ bumper stickers are available at Mr Batt’s office in Hervey Bay or Bundaberg.