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Section Three: The Countdown - Part One

Narration:

When the Prime Minister announces the election date, voters, candidates and the AEC begin a countdown in a series of essential milestones outlined in the Commonwealth Electoral Act. The first of these, and therefore the first great burst of activity with which the AEC has to cope, is voters getting their names on the electoral roll – rolls close just seven days after the issue of the writs.

An Australian citizen who will be at least eighteen on election day is eligible to vote, and whilst people can enrol at any time they sometimes don't think about it until an election is called.

Within the millions of people eligible to vote is a much smaller group which will play a much more obvious role in the election - the candidates.

Questions:

Why have a timetable that is set-down in law? The countdown tries to strike a balance between the time taken to inform the electorate and organise the election and the time the country is without elected government.

What are the stages in the election process? Check the AEC Publication 'All you ever wanted to know about Australian Democracy'

Why do people stand for parliament? Does anyone think that, one day, they might?

Activities

• The voting age has changed over the years. Students can research what qualifications were enforced for voting in the early years of Australia. * Students could suggest whether there should be other restrictions or conditions put on peoples eligibility to vote besides age. Give the group these alternatives;
• Bankrupts
• Prisoners
• 16yr old with a child
• People living overseas for more than 10 years
• People of unsound mind
• Non-Australian citizens

Physically arrange the class according to 'agree/disagree' opinion and have individuals give reasons for their choice.

• Ask the local member to visit the school, to talk about what it is actually like to be a member of the Commonwealth parliament. Devise some 'interview questions' for the visiting member.

Glossary

Commonwealth Electoral Act - The legislation governing the Commonwealth election process.