Political analysts claim opposition leader Anthony Albanese is ahead in opinion polls however some multicultural communities think Prime Minister Scott Morrison had a better vision for the future of Australia.
In the last six weeks, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Labor leader Anthony Albanese faced questions from journalists and sometimes voters ranging from the economy, health, immigration, jobs, housing and cost of living.
A majority of voters have already made their minds, however, few are still thinking about which way they should fall.
The irony is that at least 30 per cent of the Australian population is born overseas but there is no substantial discussion on these communities and their unique needs.
What do multicultural communities think of both leaders
Indian Australian Sandeep Madan is a registered nurse in South Australia.
He has a 7-year-old daughter with autism whose care is funded by NDIS.
Mr Madan says the government should review how NDIS administrators work, however, he has faith in PM Morrison’s abilities to manage it.
“I voted for the labor party in the south Australia’s state elections but for federal, I would like to try the Liberal party.”
Melbourne-based Australian Nepali community member Rama Budhathoki works as an IT consultant.
Ms Rama told The Australia Today, “If it comes to economic management PM Morrison is far ahead of Labor leader Anthony Albanese.”
“Morrison technically saved us from going bankrupt, by supporting in COVID-19 pandemic via job keepers and other schemes.”
Mr Morrison also claimed in one of the leader’s debates about his economic record as a leader.
“The budget has turned around by over $100 billion, that is the single biggest turnaround in about 70 years,”
PM Morrison said.
Australian Afghan community member Liyakat Hussaini lives in an eastern suburb of Melbourne.
He has multiple businesses ranging from vegetable shops to authentic Afghan restaurants.
Mr Hussaini told The Australia Today, “When Taliban took over back home in Afghanistan, we were shivering here in Melbourne fearing about the wellbeing of my extended family.”
“I can’t thank enough to the Morrison government for bringing them here on special Visa.”
said Mr Hussaini.
Tharindu Gunasekara came to Australia as a seven-year-old refugee from Sri Lanka.
When asked about refugee policies in play this election Mr Gunasekara said every refugee should be dealt with respect and care as they have already suffered enough before landing on Australian shores.
He told The Australia Today, “I didn’t like the way fellow Sri Lankan refugee family is treated by Morrison government.”
But the opposition leader’s statement saying, “Labor would do boat turnbacks should it win government” was a put off for him.
“I am still weighing my options as both leaders have disappointed me. Now, it depends on the local candidates and how they support me and my community,”
said Mr Gunasekara.
Sandeep Madan is of the view that the Federal government should be strong and not be arm-twisted by independents/smaller parties.
However, Rama and Liyakat think a hung parliament will keep political parties in check and top politicians will keep their ears to the ground and listen to day-to-day issues of Australian multicultural communities.
Closing the border during the pandemic was a very big issue among Indian and other South Asian communities.
Rama said, “I would have loved to see my parents during those difficult times, but I am glad we are all safe and vaccinated now.”
“I am a nurse and have been in PPEs for 10 hour-long shifts, that’s why will say closing the borders was the best decision by PM Morrison to protect Australians.”
“I have right to be angry with the government for not letting us travel however I am also thankful for keeping us safe,”
said Mr Madan
Mr Gunasekara and Liyakat both own their small business.
Liyakat says, “I would prefer a government which is capable of solving workforce shortage and that too real quick.”
“I would like to see some incentives for small businesses like us but no one is talking about it, cost of living due to inflation is the real issue and everyone should think hard about it before voting on 21 May, said Mr Gunasekara”
