factors affecting the success of referendums

Question 1

Factors affecting the success of referendums

Answer 1

• bipartisian support
• double majority
• education about the proposal
• whether voters are seeking change

Question 2

Double majority

Answer 2

• Not only does referendum have to be yes from half of majority of all voters but from majority of voters in majority of states
• nature of provision making it difficult to satisfy
• 5 referendums have failed despite having overall majority support

Question 3

bipartisian support

Answer 3

• support or approval by two or more political parties
• proposed changes more likely to succeed if supported by both major parties
• if opposition party is against the proposal, the info from both parties becomes confusing
• All 8 successful referendums have had bipartisian support
• 2023 voice to parliament did not have bipartisian support and opposition had strong no case

Question 4

education about the proposal

Answer 4

• wording of the referendum must be clear as voters are likely to vote no if they are confused
• strong education campaign to the lead up of the referendum is required to ensure voters are clear on the changes it is proposing
• booklet for the 1999 republic referendum seemed confusing, compared to 1967 containing clear message

Question 5

whether voters are seeking change

Answer 5

• success depends on whether people themselves support and own the change or whether gov does
• voters themselves driving change, more likely to vote yes (1967 referendum seen as a people’s movement)
• may be mistrust in politicians