Advisers join Labor-aligned union as Liberal Party crumbles

The Prime Minister this week announced that the federal budget would be handed down in April, a month earlier than usual, signalling the possibility of an election in May 2019.

The announcement came as a key member of the Liberal camp, Julia Banks, stepped down to sit on the crossbench as an independent.

The week’s events follow a Labor Party victory in Victoria.

“The massive rejection of the Liberal Party in the Victorian state election is yet another Wentworth event reminder that we are another step closer to a Shorten government taking power within six months,” AIOFP executive director Peter Johnston told ifa.

“It should also send a very clear message to [Assistant Treasurer Stuart] Robert and the vulnerable Coalition backbenchers that issues like FASEA are deeply unpopular and should be rethought and deferred.”

The AIOFP has been lobbying both sides of government over changes to the controversial FASEA education reforms. Most recently, the association has announced plans to partner with the left-wing Financial Sector Union.

“Our campaign for advisers to join the Financial Sector Union has commenced,” Mr Johnston said.

“Joining has nothing to do with who you vote for, it is all about having the opportunity to have a say in the ALP policy agenda. Instead of being reactive to policy we can actually be proactive with contributing to its direction and content.”