Newcastle Institute presents:
The sustainability of the two-party political system in Australia
The last two Federal election in Australia — 2019 and 2022 — saw the lowest primary vote for the Liberal and Labor parties since Federation. In 2022 almost one-third of the population voted for independents or for one of the minor parties. Current polling suggests that the primary vote for the two major parties will remain low in the next election.
This trend has also been observed internationally with the recent British election showing independents gaining a significant number of seats. Despite UK Labour winning in a landslide, in 2024, they only won 34% of the vote.
At the Newcastle Institute’s October meeting (Wednesday, 9th October 2024 6.00pm - 7.30pm), our panel of experts will explore the sustainability of the two-party political system in Australia. Our panel includes:
· Simon Holmes à Court, Convenor of Climate 200 and a senior advisor to the Climate and Energy College at Melbourne University. Climate 200 Climate 200 is a community crowd-funded initiative that supports political candidates committed to a science-based response to the climate crisis; restoring integrity to politics; and advancing respect and safety for women.
· Cheryl Kernot, one of the National Trust's 100 National Living Treasures is former Democrats Leader and Labor politician and has worked in social entrepreneurship at Oxford University and UNSW.
· Ben Raue is the founder and author of the Tally Room. He has written data-informed election analysis for The Guardian, Crikey and other publications, and on ABC radio.
They will discuss the demographic, policy and systemic factors driving the trends in election results which are challenging the sustainability of the two-party political system in Australia. Reliance on people voting on traditional party ties and ideology is not working for the electorate who are wanting people to address the issues they are concerned about. The reasons for the trend to minor parties and community independents will be examined. The panel will consider the responses of the major parties to reductions in primary votes and how voters can ensure they get the representatives they need to address the challenges facing our country.
When: Wednesday, 9th October 2024 6.00pm - 7.30pm
Where: Souths Merewether, Llewellyn St Merewether
Members entry is complimentary - we request a $10 donation from casual attendees.
Please note that in line with the Registered Clubs Act 1976, Souths Merewether requires visitors who live within 5km of the Club to become members.
Live streaming on Newcastle Institute Facebook page
