AFR readers back Matildas, slam airlines decision
The Matildas captured the hearts of Australians during the Women’s World Cup, but readers of The Australian Financial Review were not in favour of a taxpayer-funded public holiday even if they won the tournament.
The latest reader poll, taken as the national team prepared for their semi-final against England, showed only a minority lined up behind Prime Minster Anthony Albanese in supporting a day off.
However, the 486 respondents were far more enthusiastic about of the idea of more funding for women’s sport, and the impact of the Matildas’ run to the final four.
The funding option was favoured by 54 per cent, with “neither” on 31 per cent and only 5 per cent unsure. Before the Matildas’ 3-1 loss to Sweden in the playoff for third place in Brisbane, Mr Albanese announced there would be an extra $200m to improve women’s sporting facilities and equipment.
“Why not an option for both a public holiday and supporting women’s sport at grassroots level?” one reader said.
Readers were also asked if they thought the Matildas success would have a lasting impact on how Australians view sport? Those who agreed (63 per cent) vastly outnumbered those who did not (29 per cent).
“Matildas are part of the success of women in sport – cricket, netball, swimming – an outstanding success and trend,” one respondent said.
On the Indigenous Voice to parliament, only 12 per cent of readers say they haven’t made up their mind on whether to vote Yes or No at the referendum later this year. Those declaring Yes comprised 48 per cent, against 40 per cent for No.
The Financial Review has reported that campaigners from both sides believe up to 30 per cent of voters are undecided.
“There are more important issues in Australia than the Voice,” one
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