Is It Just Me?

Is it just me who is out of step or are some of my fellow Australian’s really as dumb as they act?

I have had a number of experiences recently where people - who should know better - seem to have no clue about the election that is due on 24/11. Even fundamental questions like the "Role of the Senate?" and "What is a Half Senate Election?" seem to be too much for some voters. This lack of knowledge and understanding makes me despair.

Now I am prepared to believe that I am the one that is out of step but there is that small lingering doubt in my mind. A doubt that is fanned by reports that the Libs are actually still in the race for the election on 24/11. How can that possibly be?

I would have thought that even a superficial analysis of the behaviour of our Government over the past 11 years would be enough to show most citizens that they have been ripped off.

Perhaps no-one at the grass roots is actually doing the analysis? Maybe they are just following their noses like sheep normally do and are going to vote like they always have - regardless of the facts? Maybe people aren’t smart enough to see what is going on around them? Or if they are then perhaps they don’t care?

In any event, I think it makes the case to be rid of compulsory voting.

If Australians are not interested enough to educate themselves about the pluses and minuses of any political campaign and are swayed by bribes or by fear campaigns then we should gently ease them out of the responsibility to vote.

My proposal is that voting should be voluntary.

Additionally, there should be a minimum standard of knowledge that is achieved before people are able to vote. So in the same way that you get to drive a car or fly a plane with knowledge and a test then you should pass the voter test. It’s a big responsibility - everyone should be concerned enough to get it right.

If the price of this is to deny the lazy and the ignorant a vote then so be it. Those who are interested enough to be informed will have the responsibility of electing our Government for the next three years and will determine our future. Who wants the dumb and the stupid to determine where we head?

The test will examine your knowledge of our constitution and system of Government. It will explore the differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate and the States and why and how they exist and their purpose. It will show an understanding of the powers of Government and its officers.

It will result in a more informed debate - one that is built around truth and logic and what is good for the nation - not just what is good for an incumbent Prime Minister.