Democracy Sausage: Elections Inside the Democracy Sausage

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from the lecture on Australian politics, specifically focusing on electoral systems, the history of voting rights, and the implications of different voting methods.

What are the core elements of 'free and fair' elections?

Equal access to voting, absence of coercion, free competition among candidates, independent electoral management, and equal power of votes.

What is compulsory voting and why was it legislated in Australia?

Compulsory voting mandates participation in elections; it was introduced due to a significant decline in voter turnout.

What are the advantages of compulsory voting?

It promotes civic duty, ensures representation of all preferences, acts as a community unifier, and legitimates government.

What is gerrymandering?

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries for political gain.

What electoral system does the Australian House of Representatives use?

Preferential voting (or alternative vote), which allows voters to rank candidates.

How does the Senate in Australia achieve proportional representation?

Through the Single Transferable Vote system.

What is the main disadvantage of the First Past the Post voting system?

It can result in candidates being elected without majority support.

What historical act granted federal franchise to Indigenous peoples in Australia?

The 1962 Electoral Act.

What is the significance of the 'median Australian' voter in elections?

Candidates need to appeal to the median voter to effectively gain support.

What issue has caused a decline in support for the Liberal Party?

A disconnect with the median voter and failure to adapt to changing political sentiments.

What overall trend was observed in the 2025 federal election results for the ALP?

The ALP saw a significant majority and an increase in primary votes compared to previous elections.

What factors led to the Coalition's struggles in the 2025 elections?

A collapse in their primary vote, failure to address the median voter's needs, and ineffective campaign strategy.

What impact does compulsory voting have on voter turnout?

It significantly increases turnout rates, historically up to about 90%.

What does preferential voting allow voters to do?

Rank candidates in order of preference rather than selecting one candidate.

What are 'soft votes' in the context of electoral polling?

Voter support that is not firmly committed, which can shift closer to the election.

What demographic groups have shown increasing detachment from traditional major parties like the Coalition in recent Australian elections?

Younger voters, highly educated professionals, and women, particularly in urban and affluent areas, have increasingly shifted their support.

What is a notable recent trend concerning the rise of independent candidates in Australian federal elections?

The rise of 'teal independents' often focused on issues like climate action and political integrity, drawing support from traditionally Liberal-held electorates.

How have voter attitudes towards climate change influenced recent Australian federal election outcomes?

Growing voter concern about climate action has contributed to shifts in support towards parties and independents with stronger environmental policies, particularly among younger and urban demographics.