Vote for Annabel Crabb's New ABC Series on Australian Elections
The way Australians elect their politicians stands out worldwide, yet it is rarely discussed in depth. This system includes several innovations that have shaped a fair and efficient voting process.
Innovations in Australian Voting
- Australia invented the secret ballot, moving away from the British tradition where voters had to announce their choice aloud, a practice prone to corruption.
- The secret ballot helped prevent candidates from bribing voters with alcohol, which often led to riots.
- Individual voting booths were introduced to speed up elections while maintaining vote privacy.
- Australia uses preferential voting instead of the "first past the post" system used by some other major countries.
- Preferential voting keeps every vote active longer by allowing voters to rank candidates, influencing where their vote goes if their first choice is eliminated.
- Voting takes place on Saturdays to make participation easier, unlike midweek elections in the US, UK, and elsewhere.
- State and federal electoral commissions are independent, government-funded bodies that oversee elections impartially.
About the New Series
The new ABC series by Annabel Crabb highlights the 2025 federal election to showcase the strengths of Australia’s electoral system.
“Annabel Crabb sings the praises of our unique electoral system. A system which truly deserves this sort of attention.”
While the series appeals to political enthusiasts, its insights into the voting process are valuable for all viewers.
Author's Summary
Annabel Crabb’s new ABC series celebrates Australia’s distinctive and fair electoral system, encouraging everyone to appreciate how their votes shape democracy.