The relationship between the Australian public and their federal political leaders is in such serious trouble that, unless the population can be rehabilitated, we are in for a sure-fire lucky dip.

The relationship had become dysfunctional following the devastating and highly successful campaign by the Abbott-led opposition front bench. Backed by the radio shock-jocks, the Murdoch press and their commentators they were able to degrade the public's respect for the Prime Minister and her ministers to the degree that she was openly despised and ridiculed. It worked brilliantly.

Unfortunately, they cured the disease but killed the patient. Now people have seen the same behaviour in the Coalition government we were told to despise in the previous government. Broken election promises, straight-out lies and next, a potential great big new tax (GST).

Labor is no better, still making promises with no idea how to fund them and mired in the politics of the unions.

Both camps have exhausted all the goodwill left in the voting public and, unless the war-weary voters can be rehabilitated to engage with their politicians, we may well see another unemployed meat worker or ex-rugby player or retired female soldier being elected into office.

With all that to consider we may be better off with the lucky dip.

I AM saddened both Labor and the Coalition have seen fit to shred Australia’s reputation as a welcoming country to those fleeing war and persecution.

True, we are taking in 12,000 Syrian refugees.

But it is just unconscionable to hold mothers and young children in the hell holes that have become our overseas detention camps.

Oh yes, I forgot. It’s to warn off the boats. But this logic is flawed as two wrongs don’t make a right. This so-called deterrent is similar to stringing fox felts on boundary fences to warn others off.

The High Court in its recent ruling may have ruled the constitution does not preclude such an activity. However, I don’t believe any civilized or Christian nation would behave this way. Christian nation we are not.

Now the world is questioning the former.

I AM resolute in my belief that my government  must uphold the rights of all our citizens and care for the destitute and vulnerable members of our society.

This is what Australian citizens expect of their government. Just as importantly Australia must (as an intelligent, wealthy and multicultural nation) assume its responsibility as an honourable and moral global citizen.

It is vital Australia cares for those world-wide citizens who must flee from their homelands and who seek asylum in our wonderfully prosperous country.

I implore a humanitarian approach to asylum-seeker processing. I am opposed to offshore processing and resettlement programs in other countries, especially those which lack the capacity to cope with the demands placed upon them in order to supposedly ‘solve’ our asylum-seeker difficulties.

Each nation who takes responsibility helps to make the world a better place.

The Border Mail is pleased to announce it will run a weekly Letter of the Week competition – the lucky winner receives a double pass from Regent Cinemas Albury to watch a movie of their choice. Send 250 word submissions to letters@bordermail.com.au