Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter.
If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting.
She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her.
I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie.

Me too. God knows how she does it. I believe she could do anything after this job - what a ride it has been.

JuLiar has done it with grace, charm and aplomb - she hasn't wavered. I think she's the first human being we've had in this job for a long time.

She's an idiot, no f#ckin idea, if I was her advisor everyone would love her and she would be looking at an election landslide win.

she has never backed away from a fight ....... you ever see her run from reporters? you ever see Abbott run? she's got more balls than Abbott.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:19pm:

she has never backed away from a fight ....... you ever see her run from reporters?

Never. Or pesky voters. JuLiar is an excellent people-person.

A couple of her policies, on the other hand, well. Let's just say she's followed Abbott more than he's followed her - particularly on the boats. In a policy sense, the Libs and Greens have set the agenda in this term more than Labor. DisabilityCare and the Gonski reforms are a couple of exceptions.

But JuLiar' hasn't stopped. Most mortals would have been frozen into paralysis in the current hostile climate, but JuLiar has come out fighting.

God knows - I might even vote 1 Labor for the first time.

Karnal wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:27pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:19pm: she has never backed away from a fight ....... you ever see her run from reporters? Never. Or pesky voters. JuLiar is an excellent people-person. A couple of her policies, on the other hand, well. Let's just say she's followed Abbott more than he's followed her - particularly on the boats. In a policy sense, the Libs and Greens have set the agenda in this term more than Labor. DisabilityCare and the Gonski reforms are a couple of exceptions. But JuLiar' hasn't stopped. Most mortals would have been frozen into paralysis in the current hostile climate, but JuLiar has come out fighting. God knows - I might even vote 1 Labor for the first time.

In many way you are right, she hasn't been able to persue her policies. She's always had to pander to the greens and the independants, as well as the libs to some extent ... it's the culture of minority governments. The last few months is one of the few times shes actually been able to persue her own policies with the NDIS and Gonski.  Why? because with the elections coming she doesn't need to pander to the whims of the greens or the independants. Unfortunately, it looks like it's come about to late ... the public seems to have stopped listening. It's a pity because  Tony it seems has sold us out to the minig companies and newscorp. Their interests seem to come before Australias.

Actually, the public are listening again. Disability Care and Gonski are popular policies. Abbott was smart not to stand against disability funding - pity about the education reforms.

And he's stupid to get rid of the carbon tax. No one notices it. The industry are used to it. Why fix something that's not broken? The carbon tax is lowering CO2 emissions - it's doing the job it was set up to do. No one cares about it anymore.

All they care about is the "lie" - JuLiar. Ditch the witch.

This will happen, but Abbott would be smarter to keep some stability. He's essentially getting voted in to do nothing. No one really wants Abbott, they just love to hate JuLiar.

Abbott would be smart to stay well under the radar for a while. He doesn't need to put his stamp on a new government until well into his first or second year. He should pick the best ministers and give them their chance to shine. His flagpole policies will come to him. He's not coming in with a reform agenda like Hawke or campaigning on one like Hewson. He just needs to deliver a sober, level-headed and thrifty government.

My bet is his ego will get in the way before long - and this is just what people don't want to see. People don't question Abbott's "heart" the way they did during Howard's first term. Abbott is not seen as a spineless Mr nice guy. On the contrary, Abbott needs to prove the public perception about his far-right stance wrong.

Abbott's challenge is a little similar to George W Bush's first term, when a so-called "compassionate conservative" candidate did not win outright. Abbott will get an overwhelming majority, but it's purely a vote against JuLiar. Abbott needs to prove he can "govern for all Australians".

The agenda has shifted a bit since the last election. Abbott's three-word policies won't wash. Still, Abbott's not in the position that he needs to do any explaining. He can pretty much say or do what he wants from here on in.

If I was Abbott's staffers, I'd try to create more of a sense of a statesman. Abbott's essentially running as a state premier - complete with the marathons, safety vests and lycra. The Liberal front bench don't have much foreign policy clout, and this is the Asian century.

JuLiar is much more of a statesman than Abbott. He'll need to learn on the job - and he could take a fair few pages from JuLiar's book.

Howard went down well, Interesting to see how Abbott does when his time comes.

Dnarever wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:58pm:

Howard went down well, Interesting to see how Abbott does when his time comes.

That's a very long way off. If I was Abbott, I'd be thinking of the long-term now, rather than the short-term election in September, which is his.

Essentially, this just means not putting his foot in it. How hard can it be?

For Abbott, I think, hard. When he was a student, he went around campus posting up pictures of the queen and the pope. Can you imagine?

Abbott does not fit within the mainstream - at all. He needs to surround himself with some very good advisers.

And harder still, he need to learn when and when not to listen to them.

I'm reminiscing now because I've had a few glasses of Pinot Gri.
When I was a kid, in 52-53 it would have been, a student at Fort St Primary near the Bridge, we used to wander round the city after school on our way to catch a tram home to the north shore. In those days the trams used to go through the tunnels like the trains do now.
I used to love the smell of the city in those days.
Anyway, in George St it would have been, there was a boxing gym and they used to let us kids come in and watch the sparring. They used to get all the top boxers working out there, I think I saw Jimmy Carruthers once and big name Americans.
You used to see them bobbing around, jabbing this way & that, looking for gaps in the defence. (I knew all this at 10 & 11?) But I do remember it.

This is like watching Gillard now. She's bobbing & weaving, ducking & jabbing, and if Tony doesn't watch out she's going to land him with a knockout.
But who knows, maybe the fight has already been fixed by the guys with the money.

bogarde73 wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 2:26pm:

I'm reminiscing now because I've had a few glasses of Pinot Gri. When I was a kid, in 52-53 it would have been, a student at Fort St Primary near the Bridge, we used to wander round the city after school on our way to catch a tram home to the north shore. In those days the trams used to go through the tunnels like the trains do now. I used to love the smell of the city in those days. Anyway, in George St it would have been, there was a boxing gym and they used to let us kids come in and watch the sparring. They used to get all the top boxers working out there, I think I saw Jimmy Carruthers once and big name Americans. You used to see them bobbing around, jabbing this way & that, looking for gaps in the defence. (I knew all this at 10 & 11?) But I do remember it. This is like watching Gillard now. She's bobbing & weaving, ducking & jabbing, and if Tony doesn't watch out she's going to land him with a knockout. But who knows, maybe the fight has already been fixed by the guys with the money.

This is the time Gillard and Labor could be the most dangerous to the coalition, given Abbott and his conga line are being smart asses expecting they have the election in the bag. All it will take is another one of  those dog head nodding moments ( like phony Tony's moment of thirty second silence with Mark Riley where it was clear Abbott was considering punching Riley) for it to all end in tears. I hope it does, Gillard may not deserve another term, but phony tony certainly doesn't deserve the baton.

bogarde73 wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:12pm:

Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie.

No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser.

bogarde73 wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:12pm:

Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie.

bogarde73

No she is just stupid, she had this odd theory that the electorate will turn around and like her and the ALP let her stay.

The ALP is even more stupid then she is but I will give the ALP one latitude, after knifing one PM ....... to do it again would have even been dumber.

RightSadFred wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 3:31pm:

bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. bogarde73 No she is just stupid, she had this odd theory that the electorate will turn around and like her and the ALP let her stay. The ALP is even more stupid then she is but I will give the ALP one latitude, after knifing one PM ....... to do it again would have even been dumber.

that is your theory , and it's even more stupid than the one you accuse her off. ...

I don't believe she thinks the public will like her, it's not about liking someone, no one is asking her for a date .... it's about deciding who is best equiped to run the country based on the facts ... she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win.

Socrates wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 3:10pm:

bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser.

you sound much more bitter than she does ....

bogarde73 wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:12pm:

You've got to give Gillard an A+ ...

What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ?


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg

buzzanddidj wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 3:55pm:

bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg

wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts....


lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o

cods wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 4:06pm:

buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o

they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts

here, for your benefit ..

http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 3:44pm:

she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win.

Thats friggin hilarious, people have had a good look at what the twats done and thats why she's going to get annihilated at the next election, what you're really trying to say is she was hoping the electorate would suddenly become as stupid as she is.   ;D

She wouldn't front up to the people in her Western sydney stunt.

But she is a fighter, I grant.

Albeit a lying backstanbing fighter, who's fighting an election that she has no chance of winning.

Guts?? I say she is too stupid to know when she has fkd up and refuses to change for fear that it is an admission of fking up.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:11pm:

cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/

you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is

RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>>


do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information????

... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss....

think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me..

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:19pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:44pm: she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win. Thats friggin hilarious, people have had a good look at what the twats done and thats why she's going to get annihilated at the next election, what you're really trying to say is she was hoping the electorate would suddenly become as stupid as she is.   ;D

what has she done???? oh thats right not paid for anything... hey we should all live b y those rules..

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:19pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:44pm: she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win. Thats friggin hilarious, people have had a good look at what the twats done and thats why she's going to get annihilated at the next election, what you're really trying to say is she was hoping the electorate would suddenly become as stupid as she is.   ;D

yes, what a bad government (sarcasm), steered the country through the GFC virtually unscathed, kept low unemployment despite the global conditions, kept the economy growing ... how dare she, much better to believe the old 'lies, can't be trusted, interest rates will always be lower under a liberal govt.' rhetoric thatyou are so fond of, ain't that right woofie ...

Have always said breaking her word on the carbon tax was foolhardy, but brave.

She must have known it would probably cost her the election, possibly end her political career, but she went ahead, anyway.

Don't see the sort of courage in Abbott, he's a "whatever it takes, I'll do it" man.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:51pm:

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:19pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:44pm: she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win. Thats friggin hilarious, people have had a good look at what the twats done and thats why she's going to get annihilated at the next election, what you're really trying to say is she was hoping the electorate would suddenly become as stupid as she is.   ;D yes, what a bad government (sarcasm), steered the country through the GFC virtually unscathed, kept low unemployment despite the global conditions, kept the economy growing ... how dare she, much better to believe the old 'lies, can't be trusted, interest rates will always be lower under a liberal govt.' rhetoric thatyou are so fond of, ain't that right woofie ...

I agree. It makes no sense that the Coalition stands to win in a landslide. The media is mostly to blame. I just think that the time is too late now for Labor to make this election close, let alone win. It reminds me so much of 1996, when Labor shouls have been reelected, but lost in a landslide.

Peter Freedman wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 6:01pm:

Have always said breaking her word on the carbon tax was foolhardy, but brave. She must have known it would probably cost her the election, possibly end her political career, but she went ahead, anyway. Don't see the sort of courage in Abbott, he's a "whatever it takes, I'll do it" man.

I doubt it. She, like most smart people, probably thought that most Australians would see that it's for the best, and get over the pettiness of the 'lie' argument, but no, over two years on and still so many complaining. This said, I think that she is selfish to not pass on the leadership when she has no chance of winning. Rudd could win the election, she can't.

Her latest ploy appears to be the, 'I've tried my heart out for this Country...I've cried and cried'.

Must be working, you know, the violin play, because she has just gone up to level with Abbott in the preferred P.M. polls.

How does that song go? 'Short memory...must have a short memory.....

The fickle, mindless public do it yet again.

Can't see any merit in giving her any other A than the ----

A rse come September  ;D

Let me get this straight - The deeper into debt we go, the higher our international rtating, great if Labour gets in again, we will be up there with Greece and Spain in no time.

Let's see how many stars we get then.

red baron wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 6:18pm:

Her latest ploy appears to be the, 'I've tried my heart out for this Country...I've cried and cried'. Must be working, you know, the violin play, because she has just gone up to level with Abbott in the preferred P.M. polls. How does that song go? 'Short memory...must have a short memory..... The fickle, mindless public do it yet again.

Four months....and you can hear the LNP doubt emerging, and for good reason.  We all (LNP, ALP, Greens et al) know that Abbott will drop a clanger soon enough.  Credlin needs to stay sober.

red baron wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 6:18pm:

Her latest ploy appears to be the, 'I've tried my heart out for this Country...I've cried and cried'. Must be working, you know, the violin play, because she has just gone up to level with Abbott in the preferred P.M. polls. How does that song go? 'Short memory...must have a short memory..... The fickle, mindless public do it yet again.

but she's never mentioned crying ... only you have ...

you must hate being wrong all the time.

cods wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:48pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me..

he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 3:45pm:

Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:10pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser. you sound much more bitter than she does ....

You sound like a labor fool following the yellow brick road to nowhere.  I guess duplicity comes naturally to you lot........simple minds will believe anything.....boohoo.....

Socrates wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 6:58pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:45pm: Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:10pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser. you sound much more bitter than she does .... You sound like a labor fool following the yellow brick road to nowhere.  I guess duplicity comes naturally to you lot........simple minds will believe anything.....boohoo.....

so you agree that you do sound bitter then?

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 6:50pm:

cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:48pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me.. he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late.

Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.

Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.

You just excuse anything Labor says and does.

Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus.

In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas.
Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament.

Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing.

I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate.

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:03pm:

Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus.

Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor. 

How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:04pm:

In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas. Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament. Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing. I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate.

I'd agree with that. They couldn't sell water in the desert.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:09pm:

john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him?

Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side.

I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are.

Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors.

What's the point of having them there otherwise?

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:22pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise?

I doubt very much that Swan or any other treasurer ever see's a receipt whilst they are treasurer. All they see are reports from their advisors. Do you think he should also check everybody's tax return? Besides, how do you check a receipt on a future forcast?  Get real ... these are politicians, they are ideas people, they come up with policies  (even then, most times it's someone elses idea that they 'borrow'),  the real work is done by others.

You may think this is the worst govt. in history, but the facts don't support that. Leave the rhetoric behind and look at the facts. Prove that you really are a swing voter instead of just repeating bullsh1t all day.

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:03pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:50pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:48pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me.. he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late. Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic. Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered. You just excuse anything Labor says and does. Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus.

your wasting your time matey thats why I cant be bothered with them him dna and greenswhine refuse to accept this lot did a thing wrong.. its always someone elses fault..

now we have a treasurer who preens when someone says he is the worlds greatest treasurer yet when it come to all the dumb stuff guess what its some clerk in the office... not him at all.. they want a cut each way...it seems

lets see if they give the treasurer for the Libs the same benefit of the doubt...

its hilarious really Even claiming a treasurer isnt responsible for his own BUDGET which just happens to be a prediction of the next 12 months...dont let on about that though.hence the massive booboo about the surplus no ifs or buts.. a guaranteed surplus..yet! but never fear it was some dill in the office that made that prediction.

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:31pm:

john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:22pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise? I doubt very much that Swan or any other treasurer ever see's a receipt whilst they are treasurer. All they see are reports from their advisors. Do you think he should also check everybody's tax return? Besides, how do you check a receipt on a future forcast?  Get real ... these are politicians, they are ideas people, they come up with policies  (even then, most times it's someone elses idea that they 'borrow'),  the real work is done by others. You may think this is the worst govt. in history, but the facts don't support that. Leave the rhetoric behind and look at the facts. Prove that you really are a swing voter instead of just repeating bullsh1t all day.

really yet you have a treasurer you claim isnt responsible for the financial mess we are in its some dickhead in the office......... and that means the plumber is running the health dept...and the pencil sharpener is running the education dept..... WOW at least it gives us a better idea why the place is rapidly going down hill

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:22pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise?

Costello and Michael Costa both agreed swan would have been sacked many months ago if he was in the private sector.....you cant have a bet eachway and claim Costello did everything wrong when he was treasurer but that its some p.s in the office that is responsible when its labor...it just doesnt work like that...of course they have advisers and one expects experts in the dept... but at the end of the day.......

it is his job to do the budget....he takes credit for it when its right he has to take to kickback when its wrong.. simple as that..

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:31pm:

john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:22pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise? I doubt very much that Swan or any other treasurer ever see's a receipt whilst they are treasurer. All they see are reports from their advisors. Do you think he should also check everybody's tax return? Besides, how do you check a receipt on a future forcast?  Get real ... these are politicians, they are ideas people, they come up with policies  (even then, most times it's someone elses idea that they 'borrow'),  the real work is done by others. You may think this is the worst govt. in history, but the facts don't support that. Leave the rhetoric behind and look at the facts. Prove that you really are a swing voter instead of just repeating bullsh1t all day.

Then what are we paying them to do?

Me thinking that this is the worst government doesn't mean that I am not a swing voter.

It means I am a realist.

cods wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:57pm:

john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:50pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:48pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me.. he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late. Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic. Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered. You just excuse anything Labor says and does. Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. your wasting your time matey thats why I cant be bothered with them him dna and greenswhine refuse to accept this lot did a thing wrong.. its always someone elses fault.. now we have a treasurer who preens when someone says he is the worlds greatest treasurer yet when it come to all the dumb stuff guess what its some clerk in the office... not him at all.. they want a cut each way...it seems lets see if they give the treasurer for the Libs the same benefit of the doubt... its hilarious really Even claiming a treasurer isnt responsible for his own BUDGET which just happens to be a prediction of the next 12 months...dont let on about that though.hence the massive booboo about the surplus no ifs or buts.. a guaranteed surplus..yet! but never fear it was some dill in the office that made that prediction.

I hardly even read John or dna's post any longer, cods.

Just excuse after excuse for Labor. No accountability at all.

People who are so biased, to either side, who can't see the forest from the trees, aren't worth listening to.

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 8:11pm:

cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:57pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:50pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:48pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me.. he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late. Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic. Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered. You just excuse anything Labor says and does. Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. your wasting your time matey thats why I cant be bothered with them him dna and greenswhine refuse to accept this lot did a thing wrong.. its always someone elses fault.. now we have a treasurer who preens when someone says he is the worlds greatest treasurer yet when it come to all the dumb stuff guess what its some clerk in the office... not him at all.. they want a cut each way...it seems lets see if they give the treasurer for the Libs the same benefit of the doubt... its hilarious really Even claiming a treasurer isnt responsible for his own BUDGET which just happens to be a prediction of the next 12 months...dont let on about that though.hence the massive booboo about the surplus no ifs or buts.. a guaranteed surplus..yet! but never fear it was some dill in the office that made that prediction. I hardly even read John or dna's post any longer, cods. Just excuse after excuse for Labor. No accountability at all. People who are so biased, to either side, who can't see the forest from the trees, aren't worth listening to.

Hahahahahahah it's always a laugh to see you try to lecture someone on bias.

sir prince duke alevine wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 8:17pm:

john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 8:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:57pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:50pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:48pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:11pm: cods wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 4:06pm: buzzanddidj wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:55pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: You've got to give Gillard an A+ ... What's a few MORE "A's" between friends ? https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BGeNUmoCQAAGGVT.jpg wouldnt we love to see the look on their faces when they watched the month of May 2013 in Australian treasury.. when the worlds greatest didnt even know how much we are losing each and every day thanks to his bizarre forecasts.... lets hope the great ones that give out these wonderful AAA ratings...never get a job in our treasury...unless!!!!!!!!!! nooooooooo they couldnt already work there could they??????? :o :o they aren't his forcasts ..... what part of that is difficult for you? they are treasuries forcasts here, for your benefit .. http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/17268762/prices-stumped-forecasts-treasury-bos/ you dont get it do you pizza boy.... he is RESPONSIBLE FOR TELLING IT LIKE THEY CLAIM IT IS>> do you know the name of the person in treasury that gives him the information???? ... which he then makes sure its all fact... double checks..puts two and two together..............ooooppppppss.... think about it sunshine....dont get too carried away though...excuses they bore me.. he's a politician and like most politicians, they rely on their advisors when it comes to facts and figures ... do you think he actually has the time to go through their forcasts, analysing something that is not his area of expertise, something they spent months and months preparing, trying to see if it's correct? How would you even know if it's correct? it's a forcast on a future event , you wouldn't have a clue until it was to late. Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic. Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered. You just excuse anything Labor says and does. Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. your wasting your time matey thats why I cant be bothered with them him dna and greenswhine refuse to accept this lot did a thing wrong.. its always someone elses fault.. now we have a treasurer who preens when someone says he is the worlds greatest treasurer yet when it come to all the dumb stuff guess what its some clerk in the office... not him at all.. they want a cut each way...it seems lets see if they give the treasurer for the Libs the same benefit of the doubt... its hilarious really Even claiming a treasurer isnt responsible for his own BUDGET which just happens to be a prediction of the next 12 months...dont let on about that though.hence the massive booboo about the surplus no ifs or buts.. a guaranteed surplus..yet! but never fear it was some dill in the office that made that prediction. I hardly even read John or dna's post any longer, cods. Just excuse after excuse for Labor. No accountability at all. People who are so biased, to either side, who can't see the forest from the trees, aren't worth listening to. Hahahahahahah it's always a laugh to see you try to lecture someone on bias.

I've lectured, as you put it, biased Coalition voters, on it, as well.

There's no courage in what she does....

She is a coward....motivated by fear and self interest

Her actions are dotted with example of this

(1) Cattle export
(2) Illegal entrants
(3) Budget surplus claims
(4) Calling leadership spill
(5) Back stabbing Rudd
(6) Playing the sexist card
(7) Playing the class warfare
(8) Implementing the carbon tax
(9) Implementing the union bias IR laws

this is just to name a few

She keeps repeating her message because she has nothing new to say and no one is listening

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 5:51pm:

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 5:19pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:44pm: she's hoping people will move beyond the glib one liners and the party rhetoric and have a really good look at what she has done and what Abbott is proposing ... it is only on that basis that she can ever hope to win. Thats friggin hilarious, people have had a good look at what the twats done and thats why she's going to get annihilated at the next election, what you're really trying to say is she was hoping the electorate would suddenly become as stupid as she is.   ;D yes, what a bad government (sarcasm), steered the country through the GFC virtually unscathed, kept low unemployment despite the global conditions, kept the economy growing ... how dare she, much better to believe the old 'lies, can't be trusted, interest rates will always be lower under a liberal govt.' rhetoric thatyou are so fond of, ain't that right woofie ...

Don't forget the 3-word slogans...
It's about all they can digest in one go.

;)

Andrei.Hicks wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:04pm:

In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas. Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament. Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing. I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate.

Tell someone who gives a sh!t about what you think.

:)
Have a nice day, y'all.....

cods wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 8:02pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:31pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:22pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise? I doubt very much that Swan or any other treasurer ever see's a receipt whilst they are treasurer. All they see are reports from their advisors. Do you think he should also check everybody's tax return? Besides, how do you check a receipt on a future forcast?  Get real ... these are politicians, they are ideas people, they come up with policies  (even then, most times it's someone elses idea that they 'borrow'),  the real work is done by others. You may think this is the worst govt. in history, but the facts don't support that. Leave the rhetoric behind and look at the facts. Prove that you really are a swing voter instead of just repeating bullsh1t all day. really yet you have a treasurer you claim isnt responsible for the financial mess we are in its some dickhead in the office......... and that means the plumber is running the health dept...and the pencil sharpener is running the education dept..... WOW at least it gives us a better idea why the place is rapidly going down hill

you are to stupid for your own good ... if you had any brains you wouldn't comment on something you've obvioulsy no idea about ...  we are not in a financial mess, what is your basis for this comment? every economist on the planet is saying different, but noooo, Cods knows better. You always refer to others as rusted on and at the same time fail to recognise that you yourself are just as guilty as the next person .

john_g wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 8:08pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:31pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:22pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:09pm: john_g wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:03pm: Come on John, I know that you're biased and one-eyed, but this is just pathetic.Swan was stupid to say over 300 times that there would be a surplus, and even say that it HAD been delivered.You just excuse anything Labor says and does.Surely the Treasurer of Australia should have some idea of whether or not we are going to get a surplus. Here we go, the 'swing' voter who has never missed an opportunity to criticise labor.  How would he know if not for his advisors? Do you think he goes to some office to check receipts and expenditure for the day? I agree that he was stupid for making such an iron clad guarantee on a prediction of a future event, but that is irrelevant. A politician is at the mercy of their advisors. This isn't about excusing Swan, it's about not letting you morons get away with making stupid comments.  Do you think Hockey works out his own figures or do you think he has someone else do them for him? Being a swing voter I criticise both when I see firm, and I think this is the worst government of my lifetome, from either side. I am not so blindly rusted-on to be as biased as you are. Yes, I think that Swan and any other treasurer, for that point, should be actively checking receipts, as you put it, not just listening to their advisors. What's the point of having them there otherwise? I doubt very much that Swan or any other treasurer ever see's a receipt whilst they are treasurer. All they see are reports from their advisors. Do you think he should also check everybody's tax return? Besides, how do you check a receipt on a future forcast?  Get real ... these are politicians, they are ideas people, they come up with policies  (even then, most times it's someone elses idea that they 'borrow'),  the real work is done by others. You may think this is the worst govt. in history, but the facts don't support that. Leave the rhetoric behind and look at the facts. Prove that you really are a swing voter instead of just repeating bullsh1t all day. Then what are we paying them to do? Me thinking that this is the worst government doesn't mean that I am not a swing voter. It means I am a realist.

no, it means you are unrealistic. On what basis is it the worst government? Gillard lied about the tax? Howard lied about many things ... opps, that makes him worse. Swan got the predictions wrong? so did Costello, although he was lucky that the global conditions meant his predicitions went the other way ...   high unemployment? high interest rates? what? on what basis ? just admit you don't like this government, and stop trying to find excuses. Also stop pretending you are a swinging voter ... you've already decided you won't vote for Gillard no matter what, that makes you just as rusted on as someone who has supported the libs for 50 yrs.

you wouldn't know what reality was if it fell on you.

Lobo wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 8:51pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:04pm: In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas. Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament. Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing. I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate. Tell someone who gives a sh!t about what you think. :) Have a nice day, y'all.....

I actually agree with him on that. ... ever since Gillard got in she hasn't been able to sell a single thing properly. Labor has let Abbott call the shots on everything. I don't know who their media advisors are, but they should sack the lot of them.

One must question what advise the Coalition will accept if they win Government.....They have criticised the Australian treasury with unfounded claims of bias.....They have ignored findings from the CSIRO that have questioned their Direct Action Policy.....They defied the UN and invaded Iraq based on their own lies.....They ridicule the IPCC and support the likes of Lord Monkton.....They ignore most economists and brush off adverse findings about there costings.....They ridicule the IMF and Australia's AAA credit rating.....They ignore the EPA and legislate policies that harm the environment.....They talk down the Australian economy yet claim it is only in good shape because of Howard and Costello.....It seams the only people Abbott will listen to are Gina Rinehart Rupert Murdoch and George Pell.....Who will be running this country if Abbott slithers into the top job in September....It certainly wont be anyone who tells the truth to the Mad Monk???

::) ::) ::)

philperth2010 wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 9:04pm:

One must question what advise the Coalition will accept if they win Government.....They have criticised the Australian treasury with unfounded claims of bias.....

The Coalition criticise Swannie fudging the figures

Treasury have been very clear in 2009/10 that we won't get back into surplus until 2015

Swannie then twisted that figure around and promised a surplus 2013

So get your statements correct

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 9:02pm:

Lobo wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 8:51pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:04pm: In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas. Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament. Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing. I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate. Tell someone who gives a sh!t about what you think. :) Have a nice day, y'all..... I actually agree with him on that. ... ever since Gillard got in she hasn't been able to sell a single thing properly. Labor has let Abbott call the shots on everything. I don't know who their media advisors are, but they should sack the lot of them.

I also agree however I am not sure we know how well she has sold the story - nobody has been willing to print it.

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 1:19pm:

She's an idiot, no f#ckin idea, if I was her advisor everyone would love her and she would be looking at an election landslide win.

How would you convince the media against their abbott infection?

SOB

John Smith wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 7:01pm:

Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:58pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:45pm: Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:10pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser. you sound much more bitter than she does .... You sound like a labor fool following the yellow brick road to nowhere.  I guess duplicity comes naturally to you lot........simple minds will believe anything.....boohoo..... so you agree that you do sound bitter then?

Not at all fool, the Coalition will be the next government, why the bugger would I be bitter.......

Dnarever wrote on May 21^st, 2013 at 10:23pm:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 9:02pm: Lobo wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 8:51pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:04pm: In a rating system of A through to F, I would grade Gillard about a B- on policy ideas. Her Government hasn't been that bad in what they have proposed over the whole course of the parliament. Her problem is where she gets the worst grade and that's marketing. I'd give her and her Government an F in selling the policies to the electorate. Tell someone who gives a sh!t about what you think. :) Have a nice day, y'all..... I actually agree with him on that. ... ever since Gillard got in she hasn't been able to sell a single thing properly. Labor has let Abbott call the shots on everything. I don't know who their media advisors are, but they should sack the lot of them. I also agree however I am not sure we know how well she has sold the story - nobody has been willing to print it.

OHHHHHHHH NOOOOOOOOO N OT ANOTHER EXCUSE... one minute the media print all lies the next they dont print it at all...boy dna you must spend your whole life running through one media outlet after another.. checking out whos doing the right/wrong thing by gillard..

Sir Spot of Borg wrote on May 22^nd, 2013 at 5:01am:

Innocent bystander wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:19pm: She's an idiot, no f#ckin idea, if I was her advisor everyone would love her and she would be looking at an election landslide win. How would you convince the media against their abbott infection? SOB

at the end of the day sob... they sell themselves..the media can only do so much no matter what you say about Howard he was never hated like this woman is..sure a few.. but not on the scale of this..she doesnt have the charisma of someone like Obama...who I think has a huge following because of who he is and not what he has done..

I dont think its up to the media to make us like someone... do you????......surely people from all side know a good govt when they see one...


are we really sure Howard would have lost had it not been for workchoices...which really was never given a go.

but again was left to the media.. [advertising] to bring home a message..FEAR

Socrates wrote on May 22^nd, 2013 at 9:13am:

John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 7:01pm: Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 6:58pm: John Smith wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:45pm: Socrates wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 3:10pm: bogarde73 wrote on May 21st, 2013 at 1:12pm: Even if you detest her, her team, her party & her policies (guilty!), you have to hand it to her as a gutsy, back-to-the-wall fighter. If she's going to go down (and I hope she does), she's going to go down fighting. She sticks on her message whatever they throw at her. I doffs me lid to her as one tough cookie. No I"m afraid I can't agree with that Bogie. She"s just a bitter old tart who is determined to make life awkward for TA before she loses the election. No admiration here just pure contempt for a lying, cheating, incompetent loser. you sound much more bitter than she does .... You sound like a labor fool following the yellow brick road to nowhere.  I guess duplicity comes naturally to you lot........simple minds will believe anything.....boohoo..... so you agree that you do sound bitter then? Not at all fool, the Coalition will be the next government, why the bugger would I be bitter.......

i didn't say you will be bitter ... i said you are bitter .... why? because the conalition is not he govt. thats why, the same reason you've spent the last 5 yrs crying.