Labor members have shown disrespect for war veterans by voting in the NSW Parliament against giving War Memorials similar recognition to Aboriginal sites, Member for Davidson Jonathan O’Dea said.
“The Liberal/National Coalition proposed making penalties for desecrating war memorials consistent with existing penalties for desecrating Aboriginal sites.” Mr O’Dea said.
“In voting against our proposed amendment this week, Labor members demonstrated a lack of respect for our brave servicemen and women, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our freedom.
“Under NSW Labor, desecrating war memorials will attract a penalty of up to $4,400 under the Summary Offences Act. This is despite the desecration of Aboriginal sites attracting a much greater penalty of up to $11,000 under the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
"War Memorials are sacred sites for all Australians, just as many sites around our country are sacred to Aboriginal people. I believe that the people of Davidson and the broader NSW public would expect both types of offence to be treated similarly under relevant NSW laws.”
For further information, please call Jonathan O’Dea on 0418 241 500.
