Key reforms must be locked in before the next state election to ensure the democratic system is not unfairly manipulated for individual profit, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said today.
“I have spoken to many people who are shocked that we currently have a system where an individual can do deals behind the scenes to manipulate the voting system and receive funds to help people get elected to this chamber,” Ms Broad said.
Ms Broad spoke in Parliament on the recent tabling of the Electoral Matters Committee inquiry report into the conduct of the 2022 Victorian state election.
“It was positive to see the Liberals and Nationals proposal to reform group voting tickets for the Legislative Council adopted as a recommendation in this report. However, reforms to group voting tickets were also an accepted recommendation from a parliamentary review into the 2018 Victorian state election, but the state government took no action to implement these reforms,” Ms Broad said.
“The Premier must ensure that these reforms are implemented before the next state election in November 2026.
“The Nationals support measures to improve transparency, accessibility and fair representation across our electoral system.”
Ms Broad said a fair and transparent voting system was a key foundation of our democratic system of government.
“We need to eliminate group voting tickets for upper house voting and allow preferences above the line, so people know who they are voting for and where their vote is going.”
Ms Broad raised the need for reform on this issue in Parliament almost 12 months ago.
“Back then, the Premier replied that she would consider the committee’s report when it was tabled in Parliament and would respond in due course.
“Now is the time for that response and for the Labor state government to ensure that reforms to the upper house group voting system are in place before the next state election,” Ms Broad said.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
