A response
from the Premier’s Department a few months ago informed us that Cabinet was
“committed to visiting suburban, regional and rural centres” and that the
invitation would “remain under active consideration for future meetings”.
The current
NSW Government State Plan, which includes consulting with people to identify
priorities to meet locally, is an encouraging sign of its willingness to an
on-the ground consultative process.
However,
questions are being raised within Redfern-Waterloo about this current lack of
response to the invitation. Will the Premier really visit the area? If not, is
it because it is perceived to be a safe Labor seat? Or, is it the Government’s
perception that the creation of the Redfern Waterloo Authority (RWA) adequately
expresses Cabinet’s desire to enter into partnership with communities?
Certainly,
the creation of the RWA is evidence of a commitment to the area. Yet, it is
vital to realise, without casting blame on any side, that its presence has
produced both gains and robust engagement and differences between some
community groups, local residents and the RWA, including the minister. A visit
by Cabinet at this time may provide valuable insights into the stages and
dynamics of government-people partnerships for other areas of the state.
Premier,
come on down from Macquarie Street,
with your Cabinet, and walk through the area and talk to people and groups from
across the whole of Redfern-Waterloo.
[South
Sydney Herald August 2006]