It's not a bad place

Fabrication is even more endemic in Australia's print media – where there are no visuals to disprove the mendacious commentary.

Last September a Federal Court judge found Herald Sun columnist Andrew Bolt guilty of offensive conduct because of two articles which "contained errors of fact, distortions of the truth and inflammatory and provocative language."

The judge identified 20 erroneous statements, some of them "grossly incorrect". "Untruths are at the heart of racial prejudice and intolerance", he concluded.

In Europe, and I suspect most civilised nations, a columnist found guilty of 20 factual errors – in two articles – would be looking for a more suitable job. A spruiker at le carnaval perhaps or maître d' at un bordel. In Australia they become associate editor and are given a TV show.

The Australian people deserve better. The Aboriginal people attacked in the Herald Sun did nothing to warrant all those fabrications.

Australia's politicians and civic authorities also deserve better. They are not a bad lot, generally speaking. That news clip shows the Prime Minister's immediate reaction when warned of imminent danger: "What about Mr Abbott? Where have you got him?"

Without a moment's hesitation. No doubt [Opposition leader] Mr Abbott would have done the same had the roles been reversed.

Those observers here in France aware of global issues certainly believe Australian politicians have served well – especially in economic management.

"L'une des plus performantes des pays développés",wrote one observer – one of the best performed in the developed world. Another described economic indicators Downunder as 'presque idylliques' – almost perfect. Le Figaro characterised Australia as"le paradis".

Plus Australia has alluring tourist destinations, top quality food and wines and that amazing sunshine.

It's not a bad place to live either.