Take the 21-month dispute between mining company Xstrata and its Tahmoor workforce. On the surface it looks like there is merit and common ground in both cases.

The company has put forward what appears to be a generous offer while the workers, among other things, are demanding guaranteed job security.

While ever the pickets, insults and mud slinging continue from both sides, the more damaging it becomes for the company, its shareholders, workers and their families.

The dispute has dragged on for long enough, it's time for an independent arbitrator to settle it once and for all.

And another thing ...

The average Australian family is feeling the pinch like never before. Electricity prices have almost doubled, home interest rates are going up and the day-to-day cost of feeding, clothing and caring for families is becoming harder and harder.

It's a situation major parties, state and federal, need to address quickly. If they don't they could pay a hefty price at the ballot box.