I'll merely comment that I was friendly with two men who lived (separately) on the riverside at Brisbane's West End for many years. One of them was one of the most contented people I've ever met. The other one preferred dossing to alternatives, although after maybe 6-7 years he did accept an offer of a flat.

One lesson I have learned in my life (which included 16 years in Singapore/Malaysia) is to ask a simple question when people talk about Australia:

"Compared to where are we more/less (insert topic du jour)."

There is a kind of parochialism in Australia that avoids comparisons. Our discussions are poorer for that.

I'd like the sort of Australia we had before the Labor Party dismantled it !

An Australia where merit is rewarded instead of the other way round !

Thanks for your contributions Don really important that we are looking at alternatives to the foreign policy we are stuck with and all the associated risks and repercussions. Currently a national Inquiry into these issues is underway and your articles especially the one on an alternative foreign policy of armed neutrality would be a great addition. I hope you will have a look at the website and enter a submission. https://independentpeacefulaustralia.com.au/