Being in Australia for the first time, I have noticed many differences besides the obvious English accent differences. One major difference is how the government reacts compassionately to individual tragedy.

A few days ago, three people were shot in Melbourne, Australia. A man was dragging a women out of a vehicle and two men intervened on her behalf. The women and two men were shot as the attacker fled the scene. The results were the women and a Dutch, male tourist were critically wounded but will likely survive, and a local 43-year old Melbourne man was shot dead. The shooter later turned himself in and is now facing murder and attempted murder charges.

The heroics of the Dutch tourist and the Melbourne man were selfless to say the least and these men deserve our admiration. What was surprising to me was how the Australian government reacted. The 43-year old Australian man left is survived by his wife and three children. Within 24 hours the Australian government set up a $250,000 fund for the family. I was pleasantly surprised by this; no red tape and no bureaucracy. I couldn't help feel that this would not happen in America. While the American government annually provide billions for social services, the government is usually slow to react to individual deaths and tragedies, if they react at all. When there is out-cry in the media like after Katrina, the government usually reacts due to public and political pressure. This week I couldn't help but feel that supporting this 43-year old hero's family was just the natural thing to do in Australia.

I think all governments around the world, especially the American government, should take notice of this act of compassion from the Australian government. If you are interested in this story you can read about it here.

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I love being an American, but I do feel we could do a LOT better.

If I get killed, I have a $400K life insurance policy and my wife will get 55% of my military retirement. This all came from my own due diligence in assuring that my wife will be taken care of in the event of my death.

Rather than having the gov't take care of this using taxpayers' money, I'd prefer taking care of it myself.

I'm not saying the way they are doing it is wrong - just that I'd prefer the gov't not get involved in matters that I should take care of on my own.

Good point, but I think this is just extra. The man had insurance I believe, but this fund is set up for his children and wife as an extra income. I am sure the man's company will assist as well.

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