Every Vote Count - Election 2004

A Simulated Election

The processes illustrated in this video are the main stages in conducting an election:

• The announcement;
• The registration of voters;
• The registration of candidates;
• The conduct of the campaign;
• Polling day;
• The scrutiny; and
• The declaration of the result

Understanding the value of these stages, and the processes needed to ensure "fair and free elections", can be achieved through holding an election. Students could hold either a simulated election, or conduct an election along appropriate, formal lines for class or school positions.

The Australian Electoral Commission has an electoral education program. This program aims to educate the Australian people about elections and voting through either a visit to one of its Electoral Education Centres, or through presentations in schools and communities conducted by AEC divisional staff. Staff can provide assistance with and/or the materials required for conducting a simulated or genuine (eg School Representative Council) election. To contact your nearest AEC office call 13 23 26

Depending on the size of the group involved, consideration should be given to the roles that need to be filled:

• In running the election – the polling place staff, including those responsible for marking the roll and handing out ballot papers, those available to help individual voters, those organising the queue; all of these would be responsible for counting the votes.
• In standing for the election – the candidates, their scrutineers and campaign helpers.
• The voters, of course – and perhaps, media who could conduct interviews or chair debates.

The local Divisional Returning Officer, the local Member of Parliament and a journalist from a local media organisation could all be invited to give their advice on these various roles.