Yes, Australians Are Truly Special - Tulsi Gabbard | American Reacts

[@fender282]

Our elections are always held on a Saturday and pre polling for a couple of weeks and postal voting

[@resiefan3258]

Yeah so what? The USA has mail in voting too as well as guns for self defense and freedom of speech......victoria, nsw and w.a. in Australia are the closest things to communism outside of regular commie nations.

[@Lilione111]

Because I work casual…I go during the week before election day, so that I’m not standing in as big of a queue. I know all my parents retired friends pre-vote before the day as well.

[@cakesboo6554]

And don’t forget u pick the right place you get a free sausage sizzle!

[@petepierre6458]

Even if you work on Saturdays, the polls are open long enough to either vote early or late & there are plenty of options to vote early. The best thing about compulsory voting is that far more of the population are either aware of policies or know more about the country's direction given various polies. The fines aren't high & as long as you have a decent excuse, you get off without any fine. As an example, one election I missed was because I was playing Rugby on a road trip away & was fully intending to vote after the game. Unfortunately I suffered a head injury & went & waited at the hospital until well after the polls closed so missed voting. When I got the inquiry, all I did was tell them this & they said "fine"! I'm a dual citizen & find the Aussie way far easier, with preferential voting, you always get the candidate the majority prefer, no surprises.

[@brucemurray8124]

As an Australian, I fully support the Australian electoral system as very the US system which is so open to corruption and manipulation.

[@katb7921]

I'm very worried that a similar style of corruption is in the Australian system too.

[@SpiroKetal]

​@@katb7921of course it is. Australia One has footage of officials driving off with ballots. I was given incorrect directions. We use *pencils*🤨

[@SpiroKetal]

​@@katb7921We also don't have voter id and the rolls are not adequately managed. AEC is a joke. We also use dominion machines.

[@Satya2btrue]

@@katb7921it’s not! I’ve worked on polls and it’s absolutely impossible for votes to be counted incorrectly. Even the 1st count goes through such rigorous process. Before it leaves the polling place for later checks it’s assessed 2-3 times.

[@goldmanz4852]

We have a monopoly of government. The two party system does not have any competition. Both the parties work together to pass legislation that takes freedoms from citizens. On top of that the media is worse than America's and act as an arm of Government... and that is totally corrupt.

[@davewalkerden]

The original purpose of compulsory voting was to ensure that nobody could be prevented from voting, be intimidated away from voting or have somebody vote in their name. It works.

[@Lilione111]

Interesting. I didn’t realise that. Makes sense.

[@666Havers]

Using laws to force compliance is undemocratic.

[@adamgardner3364]

Your obligation ends with getting your name marked off and taking a ballot paper. How or whether you do or don't fill it out is your prerogative.

[@wayneloades3703]

@@adamgardner3364 Exactly . No compulsion to vote, only to show that you have turned up or for that matter requested a mail in or pre poll ballot.

[@unyieldingmonotony4453]

If you have to be forced at gunpoint to vote, you shouldn't be voting.

[@misterg2269]

A lot of people have fought and died so that I have the right to vote and to my mind , it is an insult to the memory of those people that made that ultimate sacrifice, that should be a good enough reason to make that minimal effort, and yes, I am proud to say that I am an Aussie.

[@rexcooper3365]

Those people who fought and died for our country did so under the auspice of nationalism. The sheer numbers of immigrants allowed into our country each year IS an insult to the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I doubt voting rights were prominent in the thoughts of those on the battlefield. Or pronoun choices, for that matter.

[@lol-zr9rc]

Misterg, I used to believe that, too. But many of those who have fought and are still alive, are horrified at what has become of our 'freedom.' As others have said, the system needs to change, as well as our poor brain-washed minds. But I believe it is happening, which is great. And Rex, with a Vietnam Vet in my family, well said. Drafted into a useless war, they have come home broken and disillusioned, but wide awake.

[@misterg2269]

@@rexcooper3365 I don't believe nationalism was the only reason my father and his mates went to war, it was also about protecting our freedoms, like the freedom to have a say in the running of our country, protecting our democracy from those that would take our freedoms from us, that's why I strongly believe in compulsory voting, read some more replies from my countrymen and women.

[@aliciadematteis7181]

@@rexcooper3365 racist!!!

[@lanceMollenhauer-mf1xz]

As an Aussie i love compulsory voting. Too many have fallen for us not to vote.

[@666Havers]

I feel the same but anything compulsory is undemocratic.

[@bmx13andit52]

@@lanceMollenhauer-mf1xz you must love letting morons conditioned communists and champagne socialists vote on your childrens future. God bless those who’ve fallen but people shouldn’t be forced to vote that why we keep having agenda 2030 rammed down our throats no matter which party gets in they’re both traitors and they both have sold us out to WEF UN WHO NATO etc. the problem is there too many stupid/misinformed (typically by state run media) people and too much power in the hands of the major parties. They’ve already rigged the system so only Libs and labor will ever run our country (into the ground). Wake up buddy if voting actually worked they wouldn’t let you do it

[@lanceMollenhauer-mf1xz]

@666Havers the reason voting is compulsory is to stop people telling others that they cannot vote.

[@lanceMollenhauer-mf1xz]

@666Havers it's compulsory to turn up for work just ask your bank loans manager.

[@eclectrickery8077]

@@666Havers Democracy is compulsory in Democratic countries, though? I understand what you're saying. Not being mean. But democracies invest power in the People, so they can choose societal rules. Nothing compulsory is just anarchy.

[@jeanwild8724]

One good thing about voting in Australia, is that the rules are the same across the nation. When you mowed to a new state, all you need to do is change your address with the electoral commission.

[@evamariachristus721]

you mowed ?????? Grassy comment.

[@its_Today_]

And if by chance you haven’t updated, no probs at all, you can just go into Any voting place, get your name ticked off and vote absentee.. or get a ballot sent out prior and Vote absentee. Reckon I had to do that for coupla Elections before I got around to updating my details lol Point here is, no worries either way 😊🇦🇺

[@TrevorHesse]

I’m an Australian, all of our elections are held on a Saturday so limited conflicts with work. You must register but it lasts for life and is only required to be upgraded if you move, a woman marries, you become infirm or die. Once your name is crossed of the roll and voting papers issued it’s completely secret and wether you vote or not is up to you.

[@dontbeasheeple5883]

Don't forget we get a democracy snag as well

[@TheKrispyfort]

Make sure to put the ballot paper in the appropriate ballot box. You can be detained by security and in trouble with the cops if you try to walk off with it

[@AussiePom]

@@dontbeasheeple5883 No we don't we have to pay for it.

[@dontbeasheeple5883]

@@AussiePom don't know where you vote but at my polling station they've always been free

[@AussiePom]

@@dontbeasheeple5883 They're done by youth clubs and they charge money for them because they raise money for local projects. We just have to make sure we get there early for they always seem to run out of onions real quick.

[@craigm1448]

Voting can be done during the working week or by mail but the big day is Saturday for mass voting when most people dont work. It makes more sense than a voting on aTuesday..

[@wayneloades3703]

Voting on a Tuesday is purely a form of voter suppression by design. If you have to take time off work to vote and your employer doesn't pay you, what are you going to do???? Not vote

[@rexcooper3365]

Especially Melbourne Cup day!

[@wayneloades3703]

@@rexcooper3365 Or the Dapto Dogs Derby

[@cosmicplanetestpilot9526]

Australian local state/territory & federal elections are always held on a Saturday plus pre-polling opens weeks beforehand

[@TheKrispyfort]

And we're allowed to be given food and water while waiting in the queue. That's actually illegal in some areas of the USA to give someone a bottle of water. Can you imagine voting without the democrasausage and can of soft drink?

[@jayehum5019]

Australian voting system may not be perfect, but it's 100% better than that of the US. And the UK, for that matter.

[@Bob-v8b3i]

I’m an Aussie, and believe Me, Compulsory Voting is Far Better than that Circus in America………If you don’t Compel people to Vote……they Wont………..Make them Give a Damn.

[@rjswas]

I hate when people that don't vote, still think they have a say on how things are run, you throw your right to an opinion out the window when you refuse to vote.

[@ChristineVella-uq7nl]

I agree, voters should not carry the weight of non voters. It is your voice, use it

[@christopherwaite8903]

Compulsory voting is why we Australian's will be under complete communist type rule. Forcing people to vote who are not politically aware causes people to vote against their own interests, easily manipulated by fake news and advertising.

[@MrBrenden830]

As a Aussie as well compulsory voting has lead to voting faurd. You have people voting that have no idea what they are voting for or why. They are also mislead told false truths in order to get there vote. It's a bad system and it needs to be changed.

[@davidhales8799]

Correct. ​@@MrBrenden830

[@nellowynpitman1439]

I’m Australian and 68 years old and lived here all my life. I love compulsory voting. It’s like a right of passage. When you turn 18, you’re allowed to get a license to drive, legally drink and enroll to vote. You also have to be an Australian citizen. There are laws to limit donations to a political candidate. A campaign runs for about six weeks prior to the election because the out going Prime Minister will call the election date. We are not flooded with political rhetoric. As a responsible voter, I take note of what my federal and local members are doing and will vote on that record. We do not register to vote with any political affiliation. That decision is made at the ballot box.. There are those that will only vote Labour or Liberal, but my personal vote will always be research based, and listening to trusted news sources. The problem I see with the US system is there is too much corruption, a lot of free speech is just out and out lies, and the more money you have will get you elected…… How is that right? If you don’t vote, you can’t complain about the crap you have to live with. Just saying.🇦🇺

[@originalsusser]

What you say generally, sure! But my issue is with your research based approach, listening to trusted news sources? What like The Project, ABC or Sky. One has to be pretty sharp to separate trusted from biased when it's all presented as non biased

[@cupcakex]

@originalsusser It’s not that hard to sort thru those states sources..! I’d only trust one & a perhaps a 1/3 of another... BUT the best way is to look at both Party’s ACTUAL posted policy positions & information & how they differ.

[@nellowynpitman1439]

I was generalizing, but mainly ABC, and my local TV stations because I’m in a rural area, and yes I go to the members website or visit their office, if I want to know something. My point is, I know the difference between rational and looney tunes.

[@PJRayment]

@@originalsusser "What like The Project, ABC or Sky." Sky I would trust. Not the other two.

[@PJRayment]

When you can get a licence to drive varies by state. When you're 18 you're _required_ to enrol to vote. The sitting PM will call the election date for a federal election, but some state elections are fixed terms. "We are not flooded with political rhetoric." That's a matter of opinion.

[@dudsummon3803]

The main advantage of compulsory voting is that in america, you win by motivating your base. In australia that isnt a factor so you have to win by persuading the centre.

[@TheKrispyfort]

We do have this tendency to vote punitively

[@davioTubio]

OMG, that's true. I never though about that.

[@TheKrispyfort]

@davioTubio the Centrals are lazy and complacent and definitely not the voters to tick off in Australia because we have the strong historical of the anti-vote

[@ozadv]

Yes, this is the key difference - there's no 'get out the vote' so candidates don't have to motivate voters by pandering to extremes..

[@TheKrispyfort]

@ozadv politics - finally, something Australia doesn't have in the extreme 🤣

[@peterbumper2769]

Australian elections are held on a Saturday, but some polling places open 2 weeks before. in my city of 150,000 there are probably 20 places to vote on election day. There are only two people to vote for, a member for the lower house of parliament (who has dominated the advertising), and a member for the upper house of parliament (think your senate and congress)(who had no advertising for). There are no elections for Governor General (president) or judges and dog catchers.

[@bigoz1977]

I’ve voted 5 times now since moving home to Australia, and only once I’ve had to stand in a queue for 10 mins. Rest of the time I’ve walked in, told my name, confirmed my address and went to the booth. In and out usually within 5 mins. Haven’t had my democracy sausage as I usually go late morning or early afternoon.

[@VikkiMcGuire-c3s]

Hopefully they had a sausage sizzle at your polling booth.

[@petemedium2185]

Fully agree. Qld had its state election recently and I was out of my electorate visiting friends, so I voted absentee. It was just as quick for me as it was for you. Our system is made to WANT people to vote, the US system is the reverse.

[@AussieDi_678]

I'm the same. No waiting in lines, straight in and out the other end.

[@Guvament_bs]

I voted 5 times just in the last election. It worked. We won.

[@calvanwest3612]

Here in adl where I am there is only a small line. Just bring in the document that comes in the mail to one of many places that host voting. Number from 1 to usually 4-5 options. 1 being most wanted. Simple easy and quick

[@barrysirgunas6944]

16 Billion was around the cost of the US election. If voting was compulsory, there is no need to spend all that money ...Who benefits, the advertisers, the lobbyist and the billionaires 'and corporations buying votes....And I thought US had a standard of living crisis. How about spending some of those billions improving the lives of Americans

[@brucethompson7214]

How would compulsory voting stop elections costing money to run? I'm confused?

[@barrysirgunas6944]

​@@brucethompson7214 I did not say there would be no cost, I said ""there is no need to spend all that money". All elections cost money. The US has to spend Billions just to get people motivated enough to Vote. The US voting system is a mess.... Australian elections campaigns are short, few weeks. It's held on a Saturday to make it easy for everyone. At school voting places, there is a sausage sizzle and snacks, and any money raised is donated to the school or other charitable organisations. Making the experience a pleasant one....

[@johnpickering5289]

Compulsory voting is worse, because you force politically unengaged, uninformed people into the voting booth making them fodder for those groups with the most money to influence!

[@davioTubio]

​ @brucethompson7214 Because in the US it works like selling a product. Divide the people, and get them angry enough and they will vote. Mandatory voting means you get a much more balanced population voting that cancels out a lot of the divisiveness by hyped up voting campaigns.

[@davioTubio]

@@barrysirgunas6944 I am right with you there. Good point.

[@bryenwillems]

I’m a US migrant to Aus and a dual citizen. Much better with compulsory voting. All that means is you have to put in a ballot or show up and get your name crossed off list. You don’t have to actually vote. Penalty for not voting is like a $50 fine if they enforce it. Voter turnout about 96%. Great system. Also has preferential voting and all elections are run by Australian electoral commission. No gerrymandering, either. When you’re 18 here you can vote, join the military and drink alcohol.

[@christinac3929]

$20 fine

[@bryenwillems]

@ thanks. I never checked. That’s even better.

[@strathjackprivate]

Yeah its $20 bucks but you can just list the reason for not voting as "illness" or even "religious belief" and they auto waive the fine.

[@PJRayment]

Legally, you _have_ to vote, not just turn up and get your name crossed off. However, being secret ballots, they can't actually enforce that, so the next best thing is enforcing that you turned up and got your name crossed off.

[@gracewolf16]

@@christinac3929 it's $50. And if you don't pay that in the time given, then you get fined another $70 on top of that fine. I suspect it will keep going up, unless you can legitimately prove that you were suddenly ill, in an accident etc...

[@alexanderdickson419]

Because of compulsory voting in Australia the independent electoral commission goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure everyone has the opportunity to vote. There are a multitude of polling stations, and also travelling polling booths that visit hospitals, retirement homes, remote areas, and prisons. There is also pre-polling and postal votes.

[@stewartc4558]

Each state as its own electoral commission and the federal electoral commission.

[@Bakes-z4c]

This is the main point. The infrastructure exists for everyone to get their vote in

[@Hannah-rl5lt]

Prisons? For staff i hope..criminals have ZERO right to vote.

[@kirstylyons6328]

​@@Hannah-rl5lt it's their country too.. everyone has a right to opinion on Government especially its victims. The Australian Government is responsible for creating alot of criminalss by deliberately keeping us poor. Majority of Australian politicians care more about their own pockets and strive to please foreign entities like the UN, WEF, WHO and the weirdo kleptocratic Oligarchy and royal pedos than the Australian people. They give away our resources and destroy any industries that create to much wealth for the middle class. Their decades of incompetence and stupidity can not be an accident it's 100% deliberately done to keep everyone as debt slaves for the NWO Agenda. Our elections are rigged and our people are kept ignorant by constant censorship and manipulation in the education system. Our news media are foreign owned and controlled, we don't really have real journalists only presstitute Muppets. Real politicians, journalists and wisel blowers that try to tell the truth or enlighten people go to Jail or theirs lives are made so hard and miserable that they have to move overseas to have a decent career and life. Just like Julian Assange, Pauline Hanson, John Pilger and David McBride to name a few. Compulsory voting is a good thing but only for a nation of people who are truly informed and educated about who and what they are really voting for. In 99% of elections since the 70's we have voted for total 🐂💩👍🏽 that have made us poorer and flooded us with hords of unsustainable immigrates that hate our culture and way of life. Just like Canada, Germany and the UK ect. Australia is a part of "their" Agenda

[@alexanderdickson419]

@@Hannah-rl5lt Unlike citizens of the USA, Australians have a Constitutional Right to vote. Voting is also a basic human right guaranteed by a UN convention that Australia is party to. The Australian Constitution also provides for citizens to run for election to parliament while in prison provided their period of incarceration does not exceed one year.

[@gragrn]

The other difference between elections in Australia and America is that voting ends at 6pm, and the votes are counted straight away, so by about 9pm we have a result. Also the new government takes office the next day, not 3 months later.

[@PJRayment]

For the lower house, that's _normally_ true, but if it's very close and they have to distribute lots of preferences, it can take longer. And the upper house always takes longer.

[@grahamleadbeatter5981]

No, the new government does not take office the next day. The governor has to swear in the new cabinet before they can take their place in the parliament. It usually takes a week or two.

[@nickabbott6278]

Try Hare Clark, five electorates, seven members per electorate. The cut up of preferences can take days and days. Still if you have an issue you have multiple members you can appeal to (from the state that gave the world secret voting and a strong sense of the need to vote. Just don't look at the ongoing corruption (apparently) from many governments of all persuasions).

[@dudsummon3803]

Point still stands that you don't have three months to salt the ground for the next administration.

[@grahamleadbeatter5981]

@@dudsummon3803 Yes, point conceded.

[@davesheville2023]

She’s got the classic yank standpoint…. “ me me me me me me “

[@TheKrispyfort]

Mandatory voting would take that away from her

[@davesheville2023]

@ Yep, and she would learn how little inconvenience it actually is…. once every few years and takes one short trip out.

[@neilreid9192]

One thing about Australian democracy is that once the election result is known the new Government and Prime Minister are installed within about a week and the out going Government go into care taking mode, not this BS that goes on in America where the out going President is still around for two months and the damage the out going President can do to undermine the incoming regime. Don't have to go past Biden and the Democrats after Trumps win.

[@Bakes-z4c]

Gee, the 🍊🤡 is doing such a great job of being an incoming candidate.

[@r1learner178]

They go into caretaker mode as soon as the PM goes to the Governor General, announces when the election is and they dissolve the House of Representatives. So they can be in caretaker mode for nearly 2 months.

[@wayneloades3703]

@@r1learner178 correct

[@rexcooper3365]

@@Bakes-z4c TDS

[@johnpickering5289]

Yes agree, while in care-taker mode no major decisions are made without the opposition leader. The US system where a lame duck president still retains full presidential powers for two months is alarming.

[@pauls478]

Let's be absolutely clear about this: it's compulsory to turn up and get your name marked off the electoral roll. Once you've done that, you can do what you like with the ballot paper. However, my personal view is that if you then choose to not cast a valid vote, you forfeit your right to complain about the result of the vote.

[@PJRayment]

"Let's be absolutely clear about this:" And yet you confused it. It's compulsory to _vote,_ not to turn up and get your name marked off. However, being a secret ballot, they can't check that, so they can only tell that you haven't voted if you don't turn up. And no, you can't "do what you like" with the ballot paper. Yes, you can fill it out how you like, but you must put it into the ballot box before you leave. You can't say, tear it up, or walk out with it.

[@davioTubio]

TRUE! "Didn't vote? Don't whinge."

[@PJRayment]

_Second? attempt to reply_ "Let's be absolutely clear about this: it's compulsory to turn up and get your name marked off the electoral roll. Once you've done that, you can do what you like with the ballot paper." That's inaccurate. It's compulsory _vote,_ not just to turn up and get your name marked off. And no, you cannot do what you like with the ballot paper. You cannot walk out with it. You cannot destroy it, I believe. You are required to cast a vote. However, as it's a secret ballot, unless you don't turn up and get your name marked off, they have no way of determining that you haven't voted. So that is about the only thing you can get fined for.

[@BobWobbles]

The price of democracy in Australia is being obligated to vote. Not a heavy price to pay imo.

[@dcmastermindfirst9418]

Why waste a vote by not voting?

[@Hitman-ds1ei]

Your are still free to "protest vote" by not voting, part of it is "you had your chance to decide now don't bitch if you dont like the outcome"

[@davidhales8799]

Why vote if you haven't got a clue about anything? And to make it worse, the msm is aligned to one side of politics, which isn't in the best interests of the people.

[@Hannah-rl5lt]

Why vote when its the UNIPARTY...those voting don't understand that your vote in Australia means NOTHING. WAKE UP🇦🇺❤🙏QLD

[@DuckXBear]

As a Australian who is watching the next generation look at a future without the possibility of owning their own homes I’d say democracy is worthless. Edit our future generations is a heavy price to pay but you don’t care do you now.

[@DavidCalvert-mh9sy]

The electoral system here in Australia works well. From compulsory voting, preferential ballots to a parliamentary democracy. A government is formed by the majority party in the House of representatives. Or a coalition of parties if no single party holds 51% or more of seats. The prime minister is chosen by the majority government. If the prime minister turns out to be a dud, then the government will choose someone else.

[@beetleb1801]

Which hasn't really happened this time, unfortunately...

[@RandomStuff-he7lu]

@@beetleb1801 Stop believing Sky News propaganda. Albo is far better than Abbott, Turnbull or ScoMo.

[@PJRayment]

@@beetleb1801 "Which hasn't really happened this time, unfortunately..." Due, I think, to Labor Party rules since Rudd that don't allow it.

[@phyllisdavies3736]

Our votes are completely in secret. We can put whatever we like on the ballot, but we do have to turn up to vote. Voting for the future of our country is a privilege that we as citizens of Australia are afforded, and I'm surprised that Tulsi Gabbard does not see this. our And yes, we are fined if we don't show up.

[@johncarruthers5552]

Voting is a Constitutional right for ALL citizens, including those in gaol. It is not a privilege as you say.

[@JohnSmith-sj2dk]

I am an Aussie, I am glad we have the compulsory system, makes us care more about Politics I think...

[@tsubadaikhan6332]

I'm with you. I think it obliges people to pay a little more attention. Obviously not everyone, but if the price of living in a democracy is the obligation to vote, it's not an unreasonable cost.

[@annettefellows8418]

Most Australians do not care about politics. People hate you talking about politics and get angry at you for doing it. Everyone makes their own decision and no one asks who you voted for, ever!

[@karendavidson4897]

I think Australians care very much about politics, many of us were brought up with don’t talk about religion or politics in company and we still practice that to a certain extent. As for who family and friends I don’t care who they vote for. Australians are very different to Americans so I have no idea how it would work in America.

[@glenysmcarthur4659]

If America had compulsory voting then the parties would have to stop making it so hard for people to vote. The American system is so corrupt.

[@davioTubio]

So true. Well said.

[@johnn4842]

It’s interesting that the right side of politics always rejects compulsory voting - tells me they are scared of the outcome. Incidentally, we Aussies vote on Saturdays, and postal, and early voting in Paterson, etc. So no need to take time off work. The USA should try it.

[@davioTubio]

I agree 100% with your sentiment @john4842. Unfortunately, I can't see the elected US politicians introducing something to help the population, and not themselves. Executives can take time off any time necessary, the working poor can't.

[@DavidSweetnam]

Compulsory voting usually means regular folks, families, decide elections instead of a far Leftist or Right. We also can put the main parties last to show dissatisfaction with them. It’s still a two party system but that may break soon.

[@cherylannb3161]

Small population, large country, compulsory voting ensures the voice of the people from city to country is heard & respected.

[@davioTubio]

Woah. I never thought of that. Good point.

[@petermcculloch4933]

We don't have to vote.We are required to have our name marked off the electoral list

[@rjswas]

Yes, but if you don't vote, you lose your right to an opinion on what happens, plenty of people out there think they have a say still even though they didn't vote.

[@PJRayment]

Legally, that is false. Legally, you have to vote. But given that it's a secret ballot, they can't check that you have; they can only check that you turned up and got your name crossed off.

[@peterbuckley3877]

That’s not right, you are required to actually cast a ballot, that ballot can be left empty if you like but you are still required to place your ballot papers in the box. You can’t just walk in, get your named marked off and walk out, the process is laid down in the election laws.

[@PJRayment]

Legally, that is false. Legally, you have to vote. But given that it's a secret ballot, the the only way that they can determine that you haven't voted is if you haven't turned up and got your name crossed off.

[@russellprior2190]

@@rjswas Where is the law that states that you lose your right to an opinion on what happens if you don't vote?

[@tjs0067]

I love the fact we have compulsory voting

[@dcmastermindfirst9418]

Nobody would vote if we didn't

[@DuckXBear]

You are part of the reason the next generation can’t afford homes then you fool.

[@eclectrickery8077]

Me too. And all hail the Iconic Aussie symbol of Freedom - the Democracy Sausage!

[@rexcooper3365]

Clearly a government shill Voting fines are nothing more than a cynical method for a government to increase its revenue.

[@johnpickering5289]

I most certainly don't agree with it

[@Ken-f1q]

I'm a big believer in personal responsibility and duty to your country. If he bothered to inform himself he would know that around 140-150 million people voted. More than 50%. As an Australian how do I know that? I informed myself. Why doesn't an American politician know that?

[@AussieDi_678]

She's Trump's pick for intelligence Chief. Rumours are she's allied with Russia. Hwat a Sh&* show

[@Bellas1717]

I agree with you. I'd add that 92% of Australians voted in the last federal election, with a significant proportion of the 8% unable to vote through hospitalisation etc, although youth turnout was also a part, which is a bit worrying.

[@FarnarkleKing]

@@Bellas1717 "youth turnout was also a part" that, in a nutshell is one of the main reasons America (read Republican) will never have compulsory voting.

[@PJRayment]

"... around 140-150 million people voted." How do you know? There was a bit over 156 million votes cast in the 2024 presidential election, but of course that includes people who voted more than once and dead people who voted! 🤣🤣

[@Bellas1717]

@ Just interested to know, for people who fill out and send ballots early, and then die before the election date, would you consider that their votes are valid?

[@helencook5414]

Australia schedules all levels of election (local council, state govt and federal govt) on a Saturday with late closure of booths so generally those working can get to booth. Also have early voting, and postal votes on request.

[@MazMazization]

In Australia don’t need have spare day for voting . Well organised voting places are everywhere and take you 5-10 minutes to submit your vote including voting by post envelope sent to you home address . Voting not including any electronic devices . You approach to person with citizens register , she’s finding your name then she gave too you vote paper , go in but , there is pen , mark your preferred party , fold and put into box. If voting got more than one paper then paper are different colours corespondent with colour of the box . So vote is finished. No any disturbance isn’t allowed to voting places . Police are not there, only people dressed in safety shirts helping you to get directions . Perfect organised .

[@davioTubio]

Great comment Maz. You forgot to mention "democracy sausages". : )

[@glenysmcarthur4659]

When I think how hard women fought to be allowed to vote, it makes me so mad when people refuse their right to have a say in their countries future. I love compulsory voting.

[@Bakes-z4c]

Not to mention the servicemen who died, protecting our democracy, of course you should turn up. I’d be embarrassed if I didn’t. Especially if a complete waste of space like 🍊🤡 got the job

[@OcarinaSapphr-]

Australian women got the vote with Federation, though state-based/local election voting came in at different times for women...

[@garybryant-d3p]

Australians vote on Saturday.

[@Mlletchimfaz]

Mandatory voting would mean more Americans would pay attention and...the electoral college would no longer serve a purpose any more, and be dismantled. 2 very good reasons

[@blahblahblah8911]

You can go in and write whatever you want on the ballot with no penalty. If you don't go in you receive a fine. The negative aspect of this system is many people only turn up because of the financial penalty for not doing so. If we had elections that were voluntary with no financial penalty for not participating it may provide a clearer picture of what the people want. If you do like or don't like the candidates you get off your ass and vote. If you don't care you stay at home. Elections are held on a Saturday so the majority of people will have the opportunity to vote on the day if they choose to.

[@joshuawarnock6880]

In Australia we do the voting on Saturdays, so most people have a day off, but we also have early voting so you don't need to cast your vote on election day if you can't. Businesses must also offer time to vote if you work on a Saturday. But what you might not realise is compulsory voting is far cheaper because parties don't need to encourage people to vote because voters will vote anyway.

[@soniarycroft8756]

Hello I am an Australian and voting is not forced on us We have early voting, mail in voting, and on the day voting and we don't have any voter fraud. If we don't vote it's only $20 fine But as an Aussie we respect the process and we come out and vote. Voting is our right and our responsibility. That's why our democracy works so well.

[@nathanquinn3499]

No true as an Aussie you know the polies are corrupt af..I haven't voted in 20 years no fines

[@Bellas1717]

@@nathanquinn3499 That's a very sweeping, inaccurate and libellous statement. I know many politicians at all government levels who are committed, honest, and ethical, people who just want to make a difference for everyday Aussies. Yes, there are dud politicians, just as there are duds in all workplaces. You use that excuse to justify having failed your responsibility as a citizen?

[@justlinsu]

Make that a $50 fine lol but even then you can appeal if you weren't well etc

[@Bellas1717]

@@justlinsu The fine varies for state and federal.

[@edwardvardabasso8180]

No voter fraud!? Really! One major party in particular (usually identified by the initials of its 3 word party name) uses older looking minors (16 or 17 year olds) to go around on voting day and cast votes in the names of people who have died but not been removed from the electoral roll. This is not an urban myth as many supporters of this party would like to believe. I participated in this practice in my younger days when I was naive and foolish. Today it is even easier to fraudulently vote. Early voting or applying for a postal vote in the name of a deceased person makes it almost impossible stop.

[@AT-yd1vj]

Compulsory voting gives a really accurate outcome. Noone really feels forced.

[@roberthighcock8919]

No it doesn't

[@calvanwest3612]

​@@roberthighcock8919why does it not?. People won't vote for someone they don't want to run the show.

[@resiefan3258]

Not when most Aussies don't really care about politics but are still forced to vote once 18, this is why you keep electing commie rulers and why you still a century later don't have a bill of rights worth whipping your ass with.

[@dougcox3990]

The 'donkey vote' is when voters don't know or care who to vote for, so usually either just vote straight 1,2,3, etc down the ballot, or just write anything to invalidate the ballot. This give a slight advantage to those who drew a higher place on the ballot.

[@wayneloades3703]

@@dougcox3990 Better candidates and policies reduce the "donkey vote" . Actually the true definition of the "donkey vote" is a ballot unmarked or marked incorrectly. "donkey votes" are not distributed to candidates. Only lets say "dont care ballots" as per your example "straight 1,2,3" are actually distributed to candididates

[@Ken-f1q]

She doesn't know what she is talking about when it comes to Australia.

[@hammondvanhoren5402]

I'm an aussie snd I've voted on 5 occasions and I've never waited more that 10 minutes in line to vote ... nobody waits hours inline lol

[@anidiotabroad5318]

If you not at the table you are on the menu.

[@andrewh.8403]

I like that one.

[@davioTubio]

ahahhahahaha Good one.

[@jaynebuchanan4612]

PLUS there is generally a good old ‘Sausage Sizzle’ at the Polling Booth.

[@Puppydoug]

...sausage sizzle - YAWN.

[@jameskassolos4652]

If your an Australian citizen you have to participate in the running of your country. end of story.

[@aliciadematteis7181]

Australians want to be involved in the government of the Country. It is compulsory but we are all happy doing it.

[@teachmemoore]

Aussies still have free will. You would be surprised how many vote Mickey Mouse gets in every election.

[@craigruhle5011]

Hahahaha your brainwashed 😅

[@herobrinenoch3522]

@@craigruhle5011 WTF are you talking about?

[@teachmemoore]

@@herobrinenoch3522 when people go in to vote, they add another candidate themselves and tick it. One of the. Most common names they add is mickey mouse. It invalidates the vote.

[@teachmemoore]

@@craigruhle5011 Since birth. Trying to get out from underneath it.

[@josephwilliams1905]

There is a nominal fine for failure to vote in Australia. BUT, America's voter validation is 3rd. world compared with Australia's.

[@Richard-darixdax]

As an Australian, I love my country. Unfortunately, we are governed by Muppets.😢

[@geoffk8996]

You’ll have your chance to change that in a few months time.

[@cameronhickey7771]

​@@geoffk8996change one muppet for a different muppet (change red for blue). Its... the... muppet... show...

[@Bakes-z4c]

@@cameronhickey7771 ok, hero, get in there and change it

[@dontbeasheeple5883]

@@Bakes-z4c you sound vaccinated

[@nickabbott6278]

@@dontbeasheeple5883 What a weak response. Pluck a duck might be pick a bot. LOL

[@nevillemignot1681]

Our Federal and State elections are completly controled by the AEC [Australian Electeral Commission] without any Political Party involment at all.We vote on Saturdays, but if need be there are AEC polling centres open about a month before we vote, or if you require a ballot can be mailed out to you. The cases of fraud here are minimal, and there is always a peaceful and civilized transfer of power. We in Australia believe in democracy and freedom, that is why in Australia we we cherish our compulsory voting.

[@kerriestewart5504]

I am Australian & used to live in CA & I used to have this argument with Americans all the time. I say, how can it be a true democraticly elected government if not everyone votes. Americans argue to vote or not is their democratic right. Here we can vote informally, which we call “ donkey vote” if you don’t want to vote. We have mail in ballot & early voting. We have minor independents in parliament so it’s not totally a 2 party system & sometimes those independents hold the balance of power. The system here in Australia is so much better, no college system stuff. The scariest thing here is the rise of the far right in the LNP party which used to be a moderate right wing party similar to your old Republicans. I expect this rise of the far right is a huge problem in a lot of countries though. We blame MAGA for that. So far Australia has resisted & we have the Labor Party in power who are similar to your Democrats. Finally, walking to vote. We vote on a Saturday & it’s usually at your local schools or church halls where they make an event of it with a “ sausage sizzle”, like a hot dog stand, sell plants & crafts to raise money for the school or church. A lot of us walk our dogs & pop in to vote. I’m so very sad for America right now as I truly loved living there back in the early 2000s & still have friends there.

[@anthony9thompson]

A donkey vote is where you just number from top to bottom in order . It is still a valid vote. That is why candidates try to get their name at the top . Name placement is usually a lottery

[@davidmathiesen7686]

In Australia we dont care who u vote for or want to even know. We are all friends. No division in politics here.

[@AWovenSoul]

That might change this go round. There's a lot of unrest out there.

[@pieterfaber24]

Duoh, of course the US system doesn’t want compulsory, preferential voting model. Makes it much harder (not impossible) for corporate influence.

[@Guvament_bs]

Yes because there is no corporate influence in Australia's electoral system. Just ask Clive palmer and Simon homes a court.

[@pieterfaber24]

@@Guvament_bs And note how successful Jivin’ Clive is. SHC just looked his trailer to the Teal movement with no useful outcome. Compare that to the rapacious billionaire in the US - no contest.

[@geofftottenperthcoys9944]

@@Guvament_bs Look what Clive spent to get nothing!

[@dansmith9724]

Preferential voting I think is crap. We have a govt running the country with less than 40% of the vote and their Greens buddies, who give their preferences to ALP, with maybe 10% of the vote, manipulate the govt. The preference system isn't really democratic as minority parties end up running the country.

[@cupcakex]

Well the Republicans DEF fo not want more voters. They know that works against them.

[@cherylcarter6426]

Voting in Australia can be done early and you can register to vote by mail. The voting is done on a Saturday.

[@kevinwaters5872]

As an Aussie , I missed voting in my council election : 150.00 dollar fine. I just wasn’t sure which candidates were in which developer’s pockets. This year I attended , then tore my ballot up at the booth. No biggie.

[@djbrak1434]

Local govt elections are not compulsory, but I still vote.

[@mouyat]

Freedom isn’t free, it’s a burden you must shoulder. America is loosing it’s freedom because too many Americans are apathetic or refuse to do their duty. Don’t squander your inheritance. Studies have shown that the vast majority of Australians are happy to vote, many even have a sense of pride in their participation.

[@MissShell1975]

Yes, voting is compulsory here in Australia. However, once you get your name ticked off the role to show you've been in to vote, many people don't actually vote but write something silly on the ballot papers or just fold an unmarked ballot and put it in the box. If you don't rock up to vote, you get fined.

[@VikkiMcGuire-c3s]

We have early voting and mail in vote.

[@resiefan3258]

Yeah so what? The USA has mail in voting too as well as guns for self defense and freedom of speech......victoria, nsw and w.a. in Australia are the closest things to communism outside of regular commie nations.

[@serenityviolet1304]

After seeing some of the stuff other countries, including the USA do, I appreciate compulsory voting much more. You can vote by post, vote early and vote on the weekend. We also have preferential voting, which means that if your first choice doesn’t get up, your second choice counts. Compulsory voting only applies to federal, state and local government elections.

[@darry39]

You don't have to "vote". You can get your name crossed off the voting register and throw your ballot in the garbage. Absolutely legal. You are under no legal obligation to fill in your ballot in Australia. You are only obliged to show up at a polling place to get a line through your name to say you have voted. No fine, no foul.

[@Kualabear02]

Even the “donkey vote” (spoiled ballot) is hugely important in gaining statistical information about our democratic system here in Australia.

[@bluemm2852]

Compulsory or not doesn't matter until we limit the role of money in politics and get rid of outside influences like UN IMF WHO WEF ETC!

[@bline5891]

Informal or incorrect votes in our 2016 was around 5%

[@franktully3065]

Voting isn't literally compulsory in Australia. You have to turn up, but once your name's ticked off you can turn around and walk out without voting. If you think about it, you can't be forced to make a legitimate vote when you have a secret ballot. A big problem here is preferential voting and especially making it "compulsory" as they have in Queensland. Another problem with our system here is the federal control of taxes which are then distributed to the states and which creates unaccountability.

[@justlinsu]

Everyone can vote here as the polling booths are open from 6am to 6pm on that Saturday....also there is postal voting available if you are not going to be in your electorate or working that day. Also 'early postal stations around the districts if you cannot vote on the specified date. Once your name is crossed off the register you can as the man said just put anything on the ballot paper and fold it up and put it in the box....it will be counted as a 'donkey' vote lol.

[@robynmurray7421]

A donkey vote is a vote where you just number the candidates 1 to whatever from the top to the bottom of the ballot. It's still a valid vote. Drawing or writing on your paper without numbering it makes it invalid but it is not the same as a donkey vote.

[@PJRayment]

There is also absentee voting, where you can vote in any electorate (in the state?) if you're not in your own electorate on the day.

[@chriscoghlan692]

The law in Australia is you must get your name marked off on the electoral roll. Nothing about you must vote.

[@hermanjonkers4504]

We love our voting because of the sausage sizzles at the poling booths

[@petergambera8180]

Less than about 6% of voters cast an informal vote… 94% cast an opinion… in Australia…

[@lashlaroopiggot4795]

electoral college votes anyone? win the popular vote, but not the election? america's system is screwed

[@Guvament_bs]

It happens in Australia that the party that wins the 2 party preferred popular vote does not win the election. It is not strictly a US or electrol college thing.

[@warrenturner397]

@@Guvament_bs How is it democratic that the candidate who wins a State gets ALL the Electoral College votes?

[@Guvament_bs]

@warrenturner397 that is the US system. That just applies to the presidential vote. They also have a Senate and House that essentially works the same as Australia's. The fact that both parties regularly get to win the presidency suggests that it works. It is not rigged to favour only one party. There are many democratic systems all over the world that are different to Australia's. That does not make them wrong or undemocratic.

[@Guvament_bs]

@warrenturner397 how is that a candidate that gets, in many cases less than 50% of the first preference vote gets to represent everyone in an electorate.

[@Guvament_bs]

@warrenturner397 how is it that a person can get less votes than another candidate in an electorate, yet still win.

[@persimon6803]

in Australia we have about 3 weeks to vote..and the last is a Saturday and holiday for most workers

[@LynellCrowther]

We can do postal votes if we're not able to go to the polling booth etc...

[@resiefan3258]

Yeah and? The USA has mail in voting too as well as guns for self defense and freedom of speech......but why have compulsary voting when most Aussies hate talking politics and can't name more than 5 poletitions? This is why your nation keeps voting in commies and gestapo like Police chiefs. your covid 19 lock downs and jab/mask rules where crazy, people with fists, spatulas, frying pans etc to tangle with heavily armed police and riot squads.

[@perryschafer5996]

In a democracy voting is a responsibility. People who choose to avoid their responsibilities, have no claim to the benefits that society can provide, or the right to complain when outcomes are not the ones that they would have preferred. if voting is compulsory, you are being given the choice (given that no one knows what is going on in that booth) to either contribute to your community, or not.

[@AussieTVMusic]

What would happen in America if nobody votes? They don't have to after all.

[@crustydownunder]

Australia votes on the weekend. And most people, almost all people, take voting seriously. If it wasn't mandated, most Aussie wouldn't vote.

[@karendavidson4897]

It teaches people to be motivated rather then pay a fine

[@Wacko2-wrx]

In Australia we have Federal Elections to vote for the Australian Government and State Elections to vote for each of the state governments. Voting in Australia is compulsory for people over the age of 18. Federal Elections are controlled by the Federal Electoral Commission which covers all states and State Elections are controlled by their own Electoral Commission. All votes are made by marking the same printed ballot paper but with different candidates depending on which electorate you’re in. You can pre vote with postal votes, early voting booths, even telephone votes, if interstate you can vote at any polling booth on voting day or overseas at embassies. Voting is always on a Saturday whether it be a Federal or State election and we have a preferential voting. Preferential voting requires you to mark your ballot from 1 for your first preference, 2 for your next etc with each candidate being given a number in sequence. Only votes are counted that have the ballot numbered in sequence otherwise the the vote is invalid and not counted. Preferential voting means that if your first selected candidate doesn’t get enough votes to win your next selected candidate is counted as your first. Only when one candidate gets more than 50% of the votes is a winner declared. Despite all of this we’ve had the same 2 major political parties for about 100 years who are riddled with corruption via political donations, career politicians and massive influence from corporate lobbyists that are destroying the country just like all Western democracies.

[@anneomalley227]

We are oblige d to turn up ... get our name crossed off the list ... and that's it ... don't have to vote ... democracy is precious

[@PJRayment]

Incorrect. You are obliged, by law, to _vote._ However, being a secret ballot, the only way that they can tell that you haven't voted is if you haven't turned up and had your name crossed off.

[@andrewread154]

As an Australian, trust me, compulsory voting is a way better system - and you get to eat a democracy sausage.

[@Guvament_bs]

No matter who you vote for, a politician gets elected.

[@resiefan3258]

That ain't the issue, the issue is in places like Australia with compulsary voting, the vast majority of voters care not about politics nor who they are voting for so ofcourse you are perpetualy voting in commies.

[@Bakes-z4c]

Why don’t you get in there and show us how it’s done, champ?

[@Guvament_bs]

@Bakes-z4c how do you know I haven't already.

[@rsc68er]

Hey mate, here in Australia we have early voting booths and generally vote day is a Saturday. the early voting booths are great because you can vote after work and no lining up for long periods on voting day.

[@VikkiMcGuire-c3s]

He said all 330 odd million to vote do babies and children vote too LOL

[@annettem6430]

As an Aussie I think our voting system is good, we don't have corruption like other places but the main reason I am commenting is, who cares what she thinks.

[@optimusvalerius8824]

We vote on Saturdays and if your working your employer has to give you time off to vote if your attending the polls . Otherwise you can lodge a postal vote or vote early at the polling stations that open up to a couple of weeks ahead . If you are blind or deaf you can vote online assisted by staff from the politically independent Australian Electoral Commission. According to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), 16.4 million people were enrolled to vote in the 2019 federal election. Of these, 92% voted.

[@PJRayment]

And if you're not in your electorate on the day, you can do an absentee vote and any polling booth.

[@janetlymburner9312]

Im aboriginal australian born north Queensland i vote the last box and put beside thst vote box None Of the Above 😅😂😅 ❤️🖤💛💯

[@becp488]

I've worked a number of elections and the amount of donkey votes (that is not actually bothering fill it out) are actually usually quite low. The benefits are compulsory means it must be accessable and it is to every Aussie. It also sets people up to engage with the process from young adulthood which makes people more likely to actually think about who they're voting for.

[@Bellas1717]

I think that you might mean informal votes. Aren't donkey votes where they just number according to the position on the ballot?

[@dianacasey6002]

@@Bellas1717your right I made that mistake thanks.

[@Bellas1717]

@ I had a vague recollection of someone telling me that a few years ago. I had always thought a donkey vote was any wrong vote.

[@dianacasey6002]

@I thought the same but they are classified as informal if no boxes ticked or it’s defaces. Donkey vote is following a party suggestion. Learn something new everyday

[@Guvament_bs]

​@dianacasey6002 not quite. A donkey vote. Is where you number the boxes 1,2,3,4,5 etc in order down the page. Of course it is possible that you really wanted to preference in that order.

[@trishdarby6956]

It's always on a Saturday so time off would only apply to those who work weekends, we can now vote early as well as postal votes 😊

[@Gordon_L]

I'm pro compulsory voting here in Australia , the only thing I don't like when voting in person is running the gauntlet of all the various candidate volunteers trying to shove their bit of paper in my face as I walk in .

[@ruthbentley2090]

Yep, Gordon…..but you could also have a big smile on your face and say to each one “you’re at the wrong rally” and point to the one you’re voting for. And laugh. 🤓

[@Jack_Over9000]

In the US you would have guys in red hats with assault rifles warning you off so be thankful.

[@3rdEyeWide]

@@ruthbentley2090 I suggest saying to them you already have a "how to vote" aid... and then take a pair of dice out of your pocket...

[@RodFarrell]

Asking volunteers questions about policy and showing them how little they know is part of the fun. Most of them are mindless drones that don't know anything about the policies of the party they are pushing.

[@fightforjustice3744]

Voting here in Australia is always on a Saturday. There is also postal voting and pre-polling booths operating for a couple of weeks before the actual date, so there really is no excuse to not vote. Some would choose to turn up and put "Donald Duck" on the ballot paper(called an "informal vote") but generally the informal vote is not that significant that it would affect the outcome. The biggest issue is the "preferential " system whereby you have to number each candidate with your numbered preference. Five candidates, number each box from 1 to 5 in your preferred order, one being your most preferred. Also remember, we don't vote for our Prime Minister. We vote for a candidate in our own electorate. Party that wins the most electorates, gets to govern and that party selects its leader who will be the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister then selects the ministers for each department.

[@fiop001]

Voting is a responsibility, not an optional activity. Voting day is always a Saturday and early or postal voting is available. Having the whole of eligible voters participating put a damper on extreme results. Because you have to turn up you inform yourself and except for a very small minority, cast a valid vote

[@kezzen3930]

50 dollar fine if you don’t vote but making it compulsory means the gov has to make it possible for us all to vote, most schools and local halls become poll booths, there are bbqs and (the democracy sausage) raising money for local charities at most polling places. It takes about 30 minutes and we vote on a Saturday.

[@bronwynmarsh4124]

I’m Ozzie. I love our voting system! We live 30 minutes out of town. There are community halls at each end of our road, we can vote at either. It takes us 15 to 30 minutes to vote & that includes the drive there & back! You can even get a “Democracy Sausage”! (Sausage & onion in bread, called a, sausage sizzle any other day.)🤣 The halls always smell amazing!! I don’t think it would work in the US because, “Freedom”! But if your freedom is so fragile that having to vote for the leader of the country you love would threaten it, are you all as free as you think?? Ya know, we’re free here too, maybe freer…?!? I think it’s $60 AUD fine if you don’t vote. Less in USD. Zero if you have a good reason for not voting. You should check out, “preferential voting”. That’s even more representative than your, “ first past the post” system. We have that here too. It’s a really good system. I’ll see if I can find a good KZbin video for you, I know there’s one on here, I showed it to my kids instead of trying to explain it badly to them. 🤣 You do a good video mate. 👍👍 Cheers!

[@Bellas1717]

So true, although the $20 fine hasn't changed since 1984.

[@bronwynmarsh4124]

@@Bellas1717I should have checked that & not gone off word of mouth!🤣 I thought that was all it was, but I asked a friend.🤣👍👍

[@Bellas1717]

@@bronwynmarsh4124 They probably were correct, but were probably talking about state fines. Those are higher - NSW is around $50. My cousin worked all week on the early polling booth for council elections, and all day on election day. We were at a birthday party together that night when he realised he had forgotten to vote himself. That's when we looked up fines. He won't be allowed to forget that anytime soon lol.

[@bronwynmarsh4124]

@@Bellas1717​​⁠ I ran for a party once & had to get a new form because I voted for the party I should have put last!🤣🤣🙄 Extra pressure on election day can mess with your head! Luckily for me only the election worker & I know about that & we don’t know each other. 😳🤫🤣

[@Bellas1717]

@ I have more sympathy for him now. Thanks, I loved your story!

[@Bellakelpie]

In Australia, if a person is rostered on to work on polling day, and is not going to be able to get to a polling station in time after their shift has finished, then their employer must give them paid time away from work to go and vote. But they must return to work to finish their shift. You don't have to cast a legal vote, just turn up at the polling station and register that you were there. Most people who are working on polling day, vote early anyway, so it's no big deal. If you fail to register that you attended a polling station, then you will recieve a letter in the mail , from the government, asking you to supply a reason. Failure to respond, or give a valid reason, will result in a monetary fine.

[@romanbrandle319]

We still only have a two-party system, and both are corporate sponsored no matter who gets voted in the low-income workers and the indigenous people still get screwed every time. We have rising homelessness, systemic unemployment designed to suppress wages, and our corporate tax system has allowed $AU1.3 trillion of wealth to go to offshore havens. It may be better but it not enough to make a real difference. We have also been divided and conquered by our elites because we get our news from Rupert Murdoch and the rest aren't much better.

[@wayneloades3703]

Rupert Murdoch is an oxygen thief, always has been

[@davioTubio]

I do agree with you on the "corporate sponsored" point and a few other points you made. I don't agree that it is two-party. For example; I live in a Greens stronghold. Plus the Teals are increasing their numbers every election. I like how people like you and I are critical of these things. I listen to Swiss news, and they have had a few articles about Australian media (especially Murdoch). The anchor said "What do Australians think of the media monopoly?" the Swiss reporter in Sydney answered "It hasn't been widely reported." This proves your point

[@romanbrandle319]

@@davioTubio How weird is that I'm a dual citizen Swiss Australian but I must confess that I haven't be following Swiss news.

[@NathanEllery]

We vote on the saturday, not weekday and we also have absentee voting available for anyone who cannot attend on the saturday. FInes are maybe $60 - not prohibitive to anyone who protests or can't be bothered.

[@lindasweeney969]

Over in Europe you can vote online. They have done that for years apparently. I’m Australian. I believe everyone should vote and if it’s mandatory it makes them stop and think about the policies what is being offered so they don’t waste their time or their vote. They make it count. You can pre poll vote, postal vote. Every school and hall is a polling area. Some places even have a bbq set up to make money for a local community group.

[@vmpf2011]

Australian as a country was given life differently than America. America is me, me , me. Australia started its life as a small community that every vote counts. It thinks community first, and then self. It sounded Oriental, very Asian psyche.

[@tedtratt9553]

We vote on Saturday so most people can get there . If you are unable to get there you can vote by mail. If that doesn't suit you can go to a booth that is open for a couple of weeks before the election. All you have to do is tell the person at the desk your name and they will cross you off & give you the ballots. What you then do with them is up to you. Mandatory voting makes a big difference because you have to either do a bit of research or spoil your vote. Most seem to make some sort of effort.

[@PJRayment]

And if you're not in your electorate on voting day, you can do an absentee vote at any other polling place.

[@seanlevison6361]

I forgot to tell the NSW government I was moving overseas, came back to Australia and was driving around, but wanted to change my licence in Queensland and found out it had been suspended - if I hurt someone I would have been uninsured - bet most Australians didn't know that happens.