Australia under new mismanagement?

When Tony Abbott declared the Coalition victory in September it sounded more like an announcement of a receivership takeover, than an assumption of democratically won office.

Of course there were the usual and obligatory things said about Government being chosen by the people and governing for all Australians. However what was of note, and unusual, even when seen internationally, was Tony Abbott's proclamation that: "I declare that Australia is under new management and once again open for business"

But if Australia is now a business not simply a nation; are we no longer mere citizens?

Do we all now live in Australia Inc. and are we shareholders, employees assets or liabilities?

Abbot has declared she should not be judged on his words but his deeds, on several occasions .

Despite having abolished a ministry of science in his cabinet he addressed scientists at the Prime Ministers prizes for science awards and professed great enthusiasm for scientists and their work. He declared on November 2^nd, "judge us by our performance , not by our titles," and  "none of us should ever underestimate the power of science" and its importance in the modern world.

Six days later on November 8^th breaking news announced the Abbott government cuts to 25 per cent of the staff of the CSIRO (Commonwealth Industrial and Research Organisation), established in 1926.

But words matter as well as deeds. Words are powerful and influential. Abbott or his advisors, know this well. That is why all his ministers must now get "clearance" through the Prime Minister's Office before speaking to the press.

Abbott has promised to be trustworthy and stable, and that his would be a no surprises Government. He has sworn in blood to abolish the carbon tax and his first act was to instruct the preparation of the carbon repeal legislation. Operation Sovereign Borders was set up to ensure that the boats were stopped. Or to ensure that they at least stopped making the news. A very limited commentary regimen was imposed on press briefings The press now reports that the Abbott government has become a government of "no comment" about  "on water operations".

It may be self evident, that I am not a fan of Tony Abbott. This is not just because he at times comes across as a kind of Maxwell Smart. His slogan driven rhetoric verges on buffoonery and his secrecy, like a cone of (ministerial) silence becomes a feeble attempt at failed concealment. Nor is it just because Abbott and some of his key ministers fail to say the right thing at the right time. These are important failings in the leader of our country who is meant to tread the world stage. A lot of damage can be done by insensitive diplomacy or clumsy rhetoric. The Indonesians were reportedly angry at Tony Abbotts declared intention to buy back (smugglers) boats.

My concern is Tony Abbott's lack of awareness, refusal to heed expert advice, his propensity to heed eccentric nutters, his lack of empathy, and his wilful ignorance and the impact of his failings on the lives of others.

But wait there's more.