A misleading attack ad against a candidate in an upcoming by-election has reminded everyone that Queensland does not have truth in political advertising laws, prompting the Courier-Mail to editorialise:
“Voters should not have to cop lies”
Ahead of the Queensland state election, now Premier David Crisafulli promised to look into such laws, saying “heaven knows we need it”. The Labor Government was less committal, although ironically in opposition they are now pursuing the issue.
Today Premier Crisafulli refused to commit to implementing truth in political advertising laws, saying:
“I don’t want robust debate to be shelved under the guise of preventing, particularly in opposition, from being able to challenge a government of the day.”
But why would it?
South Australia has had truth in political advertising laws for forty years. They are respected, popular on all sides of politics and have improved the political culture. They are specifically designed to protect robust debate.
The great strength of Australian federation is that a good idea can spread from one state to another.
Indeed, as I wrote last month in The Point, the SA Liberals are copying Queensland Labor’s fifty-cent public transport policy – so why shouldn’t the Queensland Liberal–Nationals copy South Australia’s truth in political advertising laws?
1 Comment
The funniest thing I have read today is the Courier Mail stating “Voters should not have to cop lies”. Perhaps if the Courier Mail led by example - the voting habits of Qlder's would change - geez we can't have that - perish the thought...