The government is completely hamstrung by its ideology, leading to its determination to support its mates, especially those in the fossil fuel industry (who donated $1.8 million to the three major parties last year).

More news: Regional Victoria's COVID-19 restrictions set to ease

The government also shows a lack of transparency (think Sports Rorts) and a determination to punish institutions that analyse, criticise or expose its actions (ABC, universities).

There are enormous opportunities for new industries that will protect the environment, produce ongoing employment and support the economy.

Numerous think tanks have made detailed recommendations for the industries of the future, e.g. Beyond Zero Emissions' Million Jobs Plan.

More news: 'We have literally lost everything': couple reels from arson attack

Such plans could save employment, the environment and the economy into the future while ensuring the social support we need for education, childcare, health, aged care, social housing and developing export industries of the future.

This government has no vision for Australia's future.

In fact, it doesn't even understand the problems we face.

Let us rally behind Beyond Zero Emissions, The Australia Institute and all those with a vision for a strong, prosperous and environmentally and socially aware society.

More news: Thousands more social housing properties needed to meet Bendigo's demand

I live in Eaglehawk and upgraded to the NBN when my daughter started working from home.

Apparently we are more than a kilometre away from the node therefore we can never expect more than 16/ 5 speed.

I am an essential worker and out of 200 staff currently working from home I am one of few still working from the office.

Business is important but maybe money needs to be spent on residential too.

Wasn't NBN meant to be better?

It is great that sections of the city will be closed for outdoor dining ( Bendigo Advertiser, Saturday, October 10).

It will boost business, tourism , "shop local" and avoid inhaling exhaust fumes while eating on the street so to speak.

But do we have to have those ugly concrete barriers, they do nothing for the ambience that could be established.

Surely it is overkill to section off a road for pleasurable intent.

If we do have to have them maybe some unemployed graffiti artists could run a theme across town.

Read more: Bendigo 2020 VCE students sit General Achievement Test

Each week one submission will win its author a $30 Coles voucher.

All submissions must carry your name, as well as your full address and daytime phone number.

We will publish the writer's name and suburb/town.

We reserve the right to edit all contributions.

Please send letters to addynews@austcommunitymedia.com.au