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18 Aug 2023 | Eric Hannaford
How Voting for Independents Revive Australian Democracy
In the realm of Australian democracy, a sense of urgency hangs in the air. Over the years, discontent has brewed among Australians dissatisfied with our political system. Transparency and openness are essential to a strong nation. However, the current state of affairs often results in concealed government misconduct, while those who bring it to light are penalised.
Amidst this backdrop, voting for independent candidates presents an opportunity for change. These candidates, untethered by major Australian political parties' agendas, have the potential to breathe new life into our democratic landscape. In this article, let’s explore how voting for independents restores Australians' faith in democracy.
Amidst this backdrop, voting for independent candidates presents an opportunity for change. These candidates, untethered by major Australian political parties' agendas, have the potential to breathe new life into our democratic landscape. In this article, let’s explore how voting for independents restores Australians' faith in democracy.
Government and Australian Democracy
Australia, a nation built on representative democracy, has a unique political system that draws inspiration from British and North American traditions. In this system, eligible individuals exercise their right to vote, empowering chosen candidates to govern and make decisions on their behalf. Central to Australian democracy is a set of core values that shape its institutions and practices.
First, freedom of election and being elected lies at the heart of the Australian democratic process. This fundamental principle ensures that citizens can participate actively in the electoral process, shaping the composition of their government. Moreover, freedom of assembly and political participation allow individuals to express their views and engage in political discourse, contributing to a vibrant, inclusive democracy.
Australia’s democracy also upholds freedom of speech, expression, and religious belief. These rights allow citizens to voice their opinions, share their ideas, and practice their chosen faith without fear of repression. In addition, the rule of law maintains equality and justice for all individuals through fair, impartial legal processes.
However, the political system in Australia has been dominated by the major parties. This trend has provided stability in the past but now poses challenges. Australian political parties have shown ineffectiveness and indifference regarding climate action, intergenerational inequality, and geopolitical shifts.
First, freedom of election and being elected lies at the heart of the Australian democratic process. This fundamental principle ensures that citizens can participate actively in the electoral process, shaping the composition of their government. Moreover, freedom of assembly and political participation allow individuals to express their views and engage in political discourse, contributing to a vibrant, inclusive democracy.
Australia’s democracy also upholds freedom of speech, expression, and religious belief. These rights allow citizens to voice their opinions, share their ideas, and practice their chosen faith without fear of repression. In addition, the rule of law maintains equality and justice for all individuals through fair, impartial legal processes.
However, the political system in Australia has been dominated by the major parties. This trend has provided stability in the past but now poses challenges. Australian political parties have shown ineffectiveness and indifference regarding climate action, intergenerational inequality, and geopolitical shifts.
Restoring Faith in Democracy: The Power of Voting for Independent Candidates
The government's hollow promises over the years have left us with little room for further delay, whether on issues of integrity, women's safety, or the environment. In the quest to revive Australian democracy, we’re looking towards voting for independent candidates as catalysts for transformation.
Electing independents can revive Australians' faith in democracy in the following ways:
Introduce an innovative electoral model Electoral reforms in Australia include introducing an electoral model that challenges the long-standing dominance of the two-party preferential voting system. The existing system, in which most people consistently support the same party, is characterised by a concentration of power within major parties and enforcing strict party discipline. As a result, decisions are often taken behind closed doors without much consideration for constituent concerns.
Voting for independent candidates paves a transformative shift toward proportional representation. This democratic system embraces the diversity of ideas and interests within the population. Under proportional representation, the legislative body would more accurately reflect the multifaceted perspectives and voices of the electorate. By participating in this movement, we liberate ourselves from party control and create the space for a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Electing independents can revive Australians' faith in democracy in the following ways:
Introduce an innovative electoral model Electoral reforms in Australia include introducing an electoral model that challenges the long-standing dominance of the two-party preferential voting system. The existing system, in which most people consistently support the same party, is characterised by a concentration of power within major parties and enforcing strict party discipline. As a result, decisions are often taken behind closed doors without much consideration for constituent concerns.
Voting for independent candidates paves a transformative shift toward proportional representation. This democratic system embraces the diversity of ideas and interests within the population. Under proportional representation, the legislative body would more accurately reflect the multifaceted perspectives and voices of the electorate. By participating in this movement, we liberate ourselves from party control and create the space for a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Improved Government Decision-making
Major parties often engage in political maneuvering in the current political landscape, focusing on short-term gains and avoiding contentious issues. Due to political sensitivities, progress has been hampered, especially climate change. By electing independent candidates, we can reshape our government to prioritise renewable energy and climate change.
They can advocate for policies that harness Australia’s abundant solar and wind resources, transforming it into a renewable energy powerhouse. Through their independent stance and commitment to their constituents' interests, these candidates can push for proactive measures to address climate change and transition to a sustainable energy future.
Furthermore, independent candidates are more likely to engage in evidence-based decision-making, considering experts' and stakeholders' input rather than adhering to rigid party ideologies. By making more informed policy choices, we can achieve better economic outcomes, manage living costs more effectively, and properly address government debt.
Address national security threats
Events such as the terrorist attack in Queensland, the announcement of Iranian foreign interference activities, and the presence of Russian Night Wolves members at the Australian Open highlight the multifaceted nature of national security threats. They demonstrate the need for a comprehensive and proactive approach to safeguarding our nation's security and stability.
Often, national security discussions revolve around the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and concerns related to China. However, it is just as important for Australia to allocate resources towards a robust domestic security strategy.
Independent candidates, free from party affiliations, can champion developing and implementing a holistic national security framework. They can prioritise our democratic institutions, individual freedoms, and the rule of law. Additionally, independent candidates can advocate for policies that enhance intelligence capabilities, strengthen border security, and ensure effective counterterrorism measures.
They can advocate for policies that harness Australia’s abundant solar and wind resources, transforming it into a renewable energy powerhouse. Through their independent stance and commitment to their constituents' interests, these candidates can push for proactive measures to address climate change and transition to a sustainable energy future.
Furthermore, independent candidates are more likely to engage in evidence-based decision-making, considering experts' and stakeholders' input rather than adhering to rigid party ideologies. By making more informed policy choices, we can achieve better economic outcomes, manage living costs more effectively, and properly address government debt.
Address national security threats
Events such as the terrorist attack in Queensland, the announcement of Iranian foreign interference activities, and the presence of Russian Night Wolves members at the Australian Open highlight the multifaceted nature of national security threats. They demonstrate the need for a comprehensive and proactive approach to safeguarding our nation's security and stability.
Often, national security discussions revolve around the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and concerns related to China. However, it is just as important for Australia to allocate resources towards a robust domestic security strategy.
Independent candidates, free from party affiliations, can champion developing and implementing a holistic national security framework. They can prioritise our democratic institutions, individual freedoms, and the rule of law. Additionally, independent candidates can advocate for policies that enhance intelligence capabilities, strengthen border security, and ensure effective counterterrorism measures.
Promote Pillars of Liberal Democracy
Promoting the pillars of liberal democracy is crucial for Australia’s continued progress and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. It extends beyond mere elections and encompasses a comprehensive commitment to safeguarding the core tenets that form the bedrock of our democratic society.
Central to this endeavour is the protection and promotion of basic freedoms, such as freedom of the press and association. These pillars ensure that individuals can express themselves freely and engage in meaningful dialogue without fear of repression or censorship. Furthermore, safeguarding minority rights is essential to creating an inclusive and equitable society where everyone is heard and respected.
Independent candidates can significantly promote and uphold these pillars of liberal democracy. They can prioritise basic freedoms protection, advocate for minorities' rights, and prioritise the rule of law. Independent representatives are better positioned to resist undue influence, ensuring their actions align with transparency, accountability, and public service principles.
Central to this endeavour is the protection and promotion of basic freedoms, such as freedom of the press and association. These pillars ensure that individuals can express themselves freely and engage in meaningful dialogue without fear of repression or censorship. Furthermore, safeguarding minority rights is essential to creating an inclusive and equitable society where everyone is heard and respected.
Independent candidates can significantly promote and uphold these pillars of liberal democracy. They can prioritise basic freedoms protection, advocate for minorities' rights, and prioritise the rule of law. Independent representatives are better positioned to resist undue influence, ensuring their actions align with transparency, accountability, and public service principles.
Embrace a Reformed Government and a Renewed Democracy for Australia’s Future
The future of Australian democracy rests in our hands, and the power to bring meaningful change lies in voting for independent candidates. This will allow our government to focus on the electorate's interests and act on conscience rather than party agendas.
Now is the time to break free from backroom deals and politicians making decisions for us instead of listening to what we think and want. We must remember how wielding our voting rights in Australia impacts our goal of shaping the course of our nation.
Let's work together to revitalize our political environment and give Australians a stronger voice in shaping our future. Do you want to know more about the importance of voting for independent candidates? Read more about it in our previous blog.
Now is the time to break free from backroom deals and politicians making decisions for us instead of listening to what we think and want. We must remember how wielding our voting rights in Australia impacts our goal of shaping the course of our nation.
Let's work together to revitalize our political environment and give Australians a stronger voice in shaping our future. Do you want to know more about the importance of voting for independent candidates? Read more about it in our previous blog.