“Less than eight months ago the Bradfield by-election produced a swing to the Liberal Party – and marked the start of Kevin Rudd’s collapse from stellar poll ratings to being ignominiously dumped by his party,” Paul said today.

“Now we have a general election.

“We’ve got a battle hardened campaign outfit here in Bradfield and we are off and running.

“This election is critically important for Bradfield and Australia – our future is at stake.

“Labor has changed leaders – but they haven’t changed their policies.

“Julia Gillard was up to her neck in all the Rudd Government disasters.

“She is accountable for Labor’s waste and mismanagement - on the pink batts program which caused over 100 house fires and four deaths before it was abandoned; on new school halls whether needed or not (a $16 billion program of which billions were wasted); on computers in schools which has overspent by at least sixty six per cent. 

“She is accountable for Labor’s mixed messages on border security – encouraging thousands of people to take risky journeys to Australia in boats run by people smugglers. 

“She is accountable for Labor’s three huge deficits in a row (including a $57 billion deficit in 2009-10) and a government debt which is racing towards $90 billion.

“Now Australians have the chance to throw this hopeless government out. 

“In government the Coalition will do what we always do - and fix up Labor’s mess.

“We will stop Labor’s great big new taxes; end the waste; stop the boats; and pay back the debt.

“I urge the people of Bradfield to do their part – by voting to get Australia back on track.”