There is a natural impatience from those whose families suffer, just as those who work for change in aged care and mental health, injustices against refugees and people with disabilities, but it would be a tragedy if the referendum left us more divided than we have been before and more fearful of offering a range of perspectives because of righteous intolerance. Many would imagine that sports and faith groups might be hesitant to offer their shattered credentials to commend a particular outcome apart from the hope of 'level playing fields' and a 'fair go'. It is curious that in other public contests such as the marriage equality debate our sporting and faith groups with identical infallible unquestioning certainly seemed opposed in a fight to the death over matters of conscience.

The opportunity of national leadership given under our system of government affords the flexible option of legislation without permanent constitutional amendment. Equality is a strong navigational principle when referring to the treatment of all people under our constitution. People of every political persuasion, of every faith and sporting code, of every culture and industry obviously have good reasons to differ, but it is becoming dangerous within our formerly tolerant and pluralistic society to ask questions and to express sincerely held opinions for fear of swift reprisal. The safeguards of our democracy suddenly seem provisional.

The declarations flying around like missiles are already disfiguring our social and political landscape. Regardless of where we currently stand on the referendum it is perfectly clear that unlike the aspirational claims of a well-known anthem, we are many, but we are certainly not one.

IN THE NEWS:

The region's health issues need more than talk. It is time for some real incentives to entice doctors to practise in regions.

Tax breaks, town incentives for doctors with children of free school fees, golf club memberships, a year's subsidised rent while establishing. The doctor shortage is urgent and will only get worse if the current doctors are left to be overworked as they currently are.

Country towns need a united package to entice new doctors. Regions have much to offer new doctors from overseas to make a move, promote lifestyle and incentives to UK and Indian doctors to make a shift.

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