Dear Tribunal
I do not have any detailed knowledge with which to compare the work done by MLAs to those working in other sectors of the economy; but as a Canberran whose quality of living depends, in ways from the trivial to the complex, on the judgement, decisions and competence of those we elect to do just this, I know that these officebearers work diligently on our behalf. I believe that if we step back from our prejudices against politicians, formed in large part from stereotypes created by the media and whipped into a frenzy by people willing to jump on the 'bash a poli' bandwagon, we would all acknowledge the long hours put in by, and heavy responsibility borne by, these fellow Canberrans. Those with a commitment to the ethos of 'a fair day's work for a fair day's pay' would surely accept the judgement of professionals who can assess the value of such work. I urge you to examine the facts and ignore the prejudices, and I feel sure you will recommend a significant increase for these deserving Canberrans, which I, despite modest means, would support wholeheartedly.

Yours sincerely
Linda Steadman
18 February 2014