Last weekend saw a decisive win for the state Liberal-National Coalition led by Barry O’Farrell.
Labor was swept out of office in the biggest swing in Australian political history, the Greens’ dream turned sour, Family First failed to win a seat, the Christian Democratic Party is back to two members in the Legislative Council, and Pauline Hanson could yet gain a seat in the Upper House.
The new Premier is seen as a safe pair of hands, but all eyes will now be on him as he rewards his mates and sets out a plan for the first 100 days of the new government.
There are enormous financial and policy challenges ahead. One that Mr O’Farrell sought to defuse on the day after the election is gambling reform.
Federal gambling reforms need state support, and the clubs and pubs know this. The churches have sought change; the Premier has indicated he sings from the gambling industry’s song sheet.
Mr O’Farrell: it’s not about throwing mud at Canberra. It’s about helping NSW families deal with gambling addiction. Why won’t you listen?
Broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 3 April 2011.
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