WHY DO WE NEED
VOICES FOR THE SENATE?
It's all about "above the line"
We know that community-endorsed independents make governments better.
They can:
Ensure increased transparency and accountability
Work across traditional party lines
Represent the people rather than the party
But there's a problem!
Due to the Senate's above the line and below the line voting system, it is very difficult for independent candidates to get elected to the Senate.
Did you know?
More than 90% of voters vote above the line on the Senate ballot paper
Because they aren't part of a party, independent candidates typically appear below the line on the ballot paper
Since 1984, when above the line voting was introduced, no Senate candidate has been elected in Australia unless they appear above the line on the ballot paper
OUR SOLUTION
Voices for the Senate gives independent Senate candidates a way to get above the line where they can compete on a level playing field with all other political parties.
As a party, Voices for the Senate will allow independent groups, candidates and campaigns to:
Appear above the line on the ballot paper with a logo
Access the electoral roll during and outside of official election periods to contact voters
Receive AEC funding when the group receives over 4% of first preference votes
Carry over supporter and voter information from election to election even when the candidate changes
More easily share information and resources.
