Left Wing Political Candidates

In Australian politics, “left-wing policy” historically and I guess typically refers to political positions that favour:

  1. Heavy spending on public services.
    1. Universal healthcare (Medicare).
    2. Public education funding.
    3. Public housing initiatives.
    4. Strong social safety net.
  2. Blue Collar Worker Rights.
    1. Support for unions.
    2. Workers rights protections.
    3. Higher minimum wages.
    4. Industry regulations.
  3. Environmental Policies.
    1. Climate change action.
    2. Renewable energy support.
    3. Environmental protection.

The relationship between left-wing politics, socialism, and communism can be viewed on a spectrum:

Centre-left (Labor Party’s typical position):

  • Mixed economy (market economy with government regulation).
  • Public services alongside private enterprise.
  • Progressive taxation.
  • Social welfare programs.

Democratic socialism:

  • More state involvement in economy.
  • Expanded public ownership.
  • Strong wealth redistribution.
  • Democratic political system maintained.

Far-left socialism/communism:

  • State or collective ownership of production means.
  • Planned economy rather than market economy.
  • Elimination of private property.
  • Revolutionary change to economic system.

In Australian context, mainstream “left” politics is much closer to regulated capitalism than to communism. The Greens generally take more left-wing positions than Labor, but are required to operate within democratic framework. True communist policies are very rare in Australian mainstream politics, even though we might feel it to be in play at certain times.   As with most political parties or policies, what might be in writing as a goal or mission statement doesn’t always find its way into reality.

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