Spindler calls for defence inquiry

Issue 

Spindler calls for defence inquiry

By Joseph O'Reilly

After being arrested for trespass at the Nurrungar Easter protest, Senator Sid Spindler, the Democrats' defence spokesperson, announced he was introducing a private member's bill to establish a parliamentary commission of inquiry into Australia's security needs.

"Nurrungar is an illustration of the misdirected defence priorities of the Australian government", Spindler said.

"The Cold War has ended, and the Asia-Pacific region is undergoing rapid change, demanding a new approach to Australia's security needs which takes account of economic, social and environmental factors.

"Australian defence strategy is stuck in a narrow militaristic groove which brings Australia into conflict with international human rights by assisting in the repression and genocide of indigenous peoples in East Timor, Bougainville, Tibet and West Papua."

Spindler said US defence activity on Australian soil was "a national disgrace".

"A more rational allocation of Australia's $10 billion military spending, including $30 million spent on Nurrungar, would be to address our pressing social and economic problems."

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.