Writer's Block: Secret Ballot
I know this is not about the American election, but in Australia it is actually compulsory to vote. As everyone has to vote, there are many more places available for voting, so lines tend to be shorter then those pictured in America. If you don't vote, it is not a capital offence or anything and you only get fined, but you do get in trouble. If you are going away you can vote by post prior to the election.
Everyone must register to vote, preferably before they turn 18. We have an election every three years, in which we vote for the Lower House, as well as the Senate. In the Senate, the seats are determined by percentage vote. Eg. Labour wins 42 % of votes so they get 42 % of seats. In the Lower house, it is party preferential and each seat is voted for and each seat is won by majority.
Most people vote either Labour or Liberal. Our current Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, is from labour. Our previous Prime Minister was John Howard.
A Prime Minister can stay in office as long as they are voted in each election. Party leadership can be passed over during the term to another member of the party in power.
However, there are minor parties including The Greens, People Power and Independents. I, as my parents are, am a supporter of the Greens. Senetor Bob Brown would have to be one of my idols. I deeply respect him, not only has he spent his life campaigning for the environment and leading the greens party, he is also strong enough to be openly gay.
For more information on the Greens clicky here. To watch $20 bucks in 20 seconds with Bob Brown click here
Everyone must register to vote, preferably before they turn 18. We have an election every three years, in which we vote for the Lower House, as well as the Senate. In the Senate, the seats are determined by percentage vote. Eg. Labour wins 42 % of votes so they get 42 % of seats. In the Lower house, it is party preferential and each seat is voted for and each seat is won by majority.
Most people vote either Labour or Liberal. Our current Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, is from labour. Our previous Prime Minister was John Howard.
A Prime Minister can stay in office as long as they are voted in each election. Party leadership can be passed over during the term to another member of the party in power.
However, there are minor parties including The Greens, People Power and Independents. I, as my parents are, am a supporter of the Greens. Senetor Bob Brown would have to be one of my idols. I deeply respect him, not only has he spent his life campaigning for the environment and leading the greens party, he is also strong enough to be openly gay.
For more information on the Greens clicky here. To watch $20 bucks in 20 seconds with Bob Brown click here