A newly elected independent senator has ruled out ambitions for the prime ministership, instead outlining bold policy proposals in his first major address to the National Press Club. Among his suggestions are a 25% tax on gas exports to fund social programs and infrastructure, a 5% levy on data centers to capture economic benefits from AI growth, and transparency reforms targeting lobbyist influence and closed-door political dealings. Known for his pragmatic approach, the senator emphasized a focus on substantive policy shifts rather than leadership aspirations. His speech highlights a push for significant economic and governance reforms in federal politics.
Independent senator’s goals ‘much bigger’ than prime ministership, he reveals in first speech to National Press ClubGet our new political email, free app or daily news podcastHe’s six foot tall and full of muscle, but David Pocock’s real strength is often sounding like the most sensible, commonsense voice in the room.At his first speech to the National Press Club on Wednesday, he said he wasn’t launching a bid for prime minister – no matter how much some people might like the softly spoken senator to have more say in federal politics.A 25% tax on gas exports, which he said could fund anything from boosting welfare to health reforms and aged care.A 5% levy on datacentres to capture more benefits from the AI boom.Transparency reforms to shine a light on lobbyists, secret meetings with politicians and vested interests. Continue reading...
