COMPLUSORY VOTING

Question 1

Since when has Australia had compulsory voting?

Answer 1

The Commonwealth Electoral Act 1924 amended the Electoral Act 1902 by introducing compulsory voting for federal elections

Question 2

Since when has Australia had compulsory enrolment?

Answer 2

Compulsory enrolment of eligible electors has been law since 1911 to encourage political participation

Question 3

What was the voter turnout increase in 1924

Answer 3

This lead to a significant increase in voter turnout from 60% in the 1922 election to 91% in the 1924 election

Question 4

Advantages of Complusory Voting

Answer 4

Increased voter turnout – increased political participation.

Increased education and understanding of our system of democracy.

Enhancement of the liberal democratic operation principle of majority rule.

Increased democratic legitimacy and authority of parliaments and governments which leads to governments have stronger mandates to fulfil voter’s wishes.

Reduces electoral impact of extreme political ideologies.