MEMBER for Mildura Ali Cupper says the Victorian Government needs to “strike the right balance” in its push to extend the state of emergency.
The government is looking increasingly likely to clinch a six-month extension on the controversial extension of the state of emergency, which expires on September 13.
It had originally wanted a year-long extension, which would have given Premier Daniel Andrews and Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton ongoing power to impose restrictions, including to wear masks or to stay at home, without parliament’s approval, until September next year.
Health Minister Jenny Mikakos has compromised by offering a six-month deal amid intense backlash from the public and crossbench MPs, some of whose support the government needs to pass the Bill.
Ms Cupper said while she could “probably live with six months” her preference was for a three-month extension that would then be brought back to State Parliament to debate the need for further emergency measures.
“I think we need to strike the right balance between the government protecting us and respecting the fatigue of the community and their fairly vocal request for as much democracy as possible,” Ms Cupper said.
“But I strongly disagree with any sort of framing that Daniel Andrews is taking his first step towards fascism.
“I think that is unhinged.
“I can understand why the government wants the 12-month extension because it is far more administratively efficient but, given the level of fatigue in Victoria, we need to get the balance right.
“I absolutely understand the fatigue, so when the Premier announced a proposed 12 months, he wasn’t reading the room. “And that is why I said from the outset I won’t support 12 months. I think we can have the same level of protection with a better balance with those important values of democracy.”
Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien hit out at Mr Andrews for keeping Victorians in the dark while seeking to extend his power.
“Victorians want to see a plan to get us out of this state of emergency but Daniel Andrews has only got a plan to keep us in lockdown,” Mr O’Brien said.
