The sudden removal of children’s human rights proves – yet again – why Queensland needs an upper house

That is why both the current government and opposition reject calls for a revived upper house in Queensland. They claim it would mean more politicians. It doesn’t have to. They argue it would make government harder, but who said governing in a democracy was meant to be easy? Yes, it might slow government actions, but when did governments always get it right? The recent auditor general’s report on the millions wasted on Queensland’s Wellcamp quarantine camp highlights they don’t. Excessive haste is worth sacrificing for good government.

In Canberra, the Abbott government learnt that governing was more than just simplistic election slogans. It had to consult and negotiate with the Senate to implement its program. The Albanese government is discovering that too, and as a result Australia is better governed.

Such democratic practices are long overdue in Queensland. The issue is, who is going to do it?