CPA - The Guardian

On July 12 a Money for Public Health not for War rally held outside the office of the Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek in Broadway, Sydney drew attention to the government’s excessive spending on the military and its subservience to the US war machine. Issues raised included the presence in Australia of US Marines, US nuclear subs and the use of Cocos Island for US drones. As well as the ridiculous plan to buy 12 submarines at a cost of $24 billion and host ultra-expensive warplanes, warships and other equipment.

Members of the Keep War from our Door outside Tanya Plibersek’s office during the July 12 rally. (Photo: Denis Doherty)

As if on cue the government released its Defence Capability Plan 2012 on July 10 outlining $153 billion of purchases for the ADF. The plan was immediately labelled unaffordable by commentators and roundly condemned by the protesters outside Tanya Plibersek’s office.

A delegation was allowed to present a letter to a staffer of the Minister detailing objections to the uncontrollable military budget and suggesting that the money be redirected into the health system for more nurses and better facilities.

This demonstration was the first of new network called to oppose Australia’s growing militarism and massive integration with the US war machine. The group is called the “Keep War from our Door – Wave of Hope”. Visit their website: www.keepwarfromourdoor.org

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