Well there is a change of govt. The liberals have been in for so long - they threatened that a change would be disaster. How negative!

 I hope that the new govt focus on education, health services for everyone and, accessible housing too. It 's time for a change here - for far too long people earning an average wage have been forced into renting when they have the right to own a house - that and the "work choices" agreements have screwed many people. particularly women.

It's not as bad as the US - we have had visitors telling us  about the ridicuously low wages they earn. The Labour party have had a great victory. Let's hope this means that the nation is stronger and prouder and more prosperous than it was in the past.

Howard seems humbled to have had the job for 11 years. Lets hope the new govt can support all of us rich and poor, old and young, all Australians. Our current economy relies on  mining iron ore and such like ( even uranuim???) We are at the mercy of world economies and this is very volatile...

I am so glad to live in a country where i can disagree with govt, whoever they be, and speak out loud against anything I disagree with - democracy is a very much apprecitaed freedom here in OZ.

I'm not sure how much influence the US has on our elections - I'd hope to think none!!! Anyway I always try and approach change with a positive point of view. I was touched by the way Howard thanked his wife so personally for her support over the years - he said that public service was the greatest service  person can give.

He was gracious in defeat and obviously loves australia and australians.