When Political Theatre Replaces True Accountability In Our Parliament
Dr Brian Walker addresses the trend of ministerial evasion in the Legislative Council, arguing that current question time processes undermine the core functions of our democracy.
The symptom of a failing system
In my years as a GP, I have learned that a patient cannot heal if the diagnosis is ignored. When a patient comes to me with a fever, I do not offer them a song and dance to distract from the underlying infection. Yet, in the Legislative Council today, that is exactly what we see whenever the government is asked a direct, uncomfortable question.
We are witnessing a slow degradation of our democratic processes. Question time, which should be the bedrock of ministerial accountability, has devolved into a stage for political theatre. It is a calculated performance designed to offer the appearance of transparency while actively obscuring the truth. This is not just a procedural nuisance. It is a dangerous precedent that treats voters like children who are unable to handle the reality of their government's performance.
The danger of the silent answer
This matters because, without honest answers, we cannot solve the problems affecting our families, our health, or our livelihoods. When a minister dodges a question, they are not just protecting their reputation. They are closing the door on the public interest. It is a form of institutional gaslighting where the evidence is clear, yet the government chooses to ignore it.
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Moving toward meaningful reform
We need to ask ourselves if a system that rewards evasion is worth preserving in its current form. My motion in the House is a call for us to stop pretending. If we cannot have genuine accountability during current sessions, then we must look at reallocating that time to work that actually impacts the lives of Western Australians. I have proposed that we explore moving away from these empty rituals and focus our limited energy on productive legislative and committee business that delivers real results.
My full notice of motion can be found in the official record of the House. I refuse to sit by while our democratic standards are chipped away by spin doctors and carefully scripted evasions. If you believe, like I do, that we deserve a government that is answerable to the people, I invite you to join Legalise Cannabis WA and help us build a more transparent future together.
