By Denis Hay
Description
Learn how to use preferential voting wisely and scrutinise candidates for Australia’s 2025 Federal Election.
Introduction: Why Your Vote Matters More Than Ever
Voter turnout and engagement are crucial for a healthy democracy. However, many Australians feel disillusioned, believing their vote holds little weight in shaping the country’s future. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The preferential voting system, unique to Australia, places tremendous power in the hands of voters – if used strategically.
By understanding how preferential voting works, scrutinising candidates thoroughly, and preparing before stepping into the polling booth, you can help ensure your vote makes a real difference in the 2025 federal election.
How Preferential Voting Works
Australia’s preferential voting system enables voters to rank candidates in order of preference. This approach ensures that if your first-choice candidate doesn’t win, your vote can still help elect another candidate you prefer over the remaining options. Unlike systems that rely solely on the majority of first-preference votes, preferential voting ensures a broader representation of voter intentions.
By ranking multiple candidates, you can effectively say, “I want candidate A, but if not A, then B, and if not B, then C.” This empowers you, not political parties, to shape outcomes more closely aligned with your values.
Who Allocates Preferences?
A common misconception is that political parties decide how your preferences flow. This is false. You, the voter, control the allocation of your preferences. Parties may distribute “How to Vote” cards suggesting a specific order, but these are merely recommendations. You are free to ignore them and make your own decisions. In fact, it’s often in your best interest to do so.
Political parties design their preference recommendations to help their strategy – not necessarily what’s best for you. By thinking critically and choosing your own preference order, you take full control of the voting process.
How to Scrutinise Candidates
Making an informed vote requires understanding who you’re voting for. Here are practical steps to assess candidates in your electorate:
1. Check Voting Histories:
Use resources like They Vote For You to see how candidates have voted on key issues. This helps you understand their track record and priorities.
2. Review Social Media and Official Websites:
Follow candidates’ social media accounts and official websites. These platforms reveal their policy positions, community involvement, and how they respond to questions.
3. Look Beyond Party Lines:
Don’t rely solely on party affiliation. Individual candidates’ stances can vary significantly within the same party. Research what each person truly stands for.
4. Engage with Campaign Events and Q&A Sessions:
Attend public forums, watch interviews, and ask direct questions. Observing how candidates handle these situations can provide valuable insights into their competence and authenticity.
Ignore “How to Vote” Cards
Political parties often hand out “How to Vote” cards at polling booths, trying to guide your preference flow. While these cards may seem helpful, they’re crafted to serve party interests, not necessarily yours. Relying on these cards can undermine your ability to vote in alignment with your values.
Instead, come prepared with your own preference order based on thorough research. Remember, the power of preferential voting lies in your informed choice, not the suggestions of parties.
The Power of Marginal Electorates
Marginal electorates, where the margin of victory is slim, hold immense sway in deciding election outcomes. If you live in one of these key areas, your vote has even greater influence. A few hundred votes in a marginal seat can decide which party forms government. By voting wisely – ranking all candidates in order of genuine preference – you amplify your voice and increase the impact of your vote. In past elections, strategic voting in marginal seats has shifted national policies and leadership.
Preparing to Vote Wisely
Before heading to the polling booth, take time to prepare. Here’s an easy guide to ensure your vote counts:
1. Understand the Ballot Paper:
Familiarise yourself with the layout and rules. Knowing how to complete your ballot correctly reduces errors.
2. Research Candidates Thoroughly:
Gather information on each candidate’s platform, voting history, and public statements.
3. Decide Your Preferences in Advance:
Rank your candidates in order of preference at home. Bring a list with you, so you don’t feel pressured or rushed on polling day.
4. Stay Informed on Election Rules:
Check official election materials and resources for updates. This ensures you understand any recent changes to the process.
5. Vote Strategically: Unlocking the Power of Preferences
Australia’s preferential voting system is a cornerstone of its democratic process, offering voters a unique opportunity to shape the political landscape. Yet, many Australians underestimate its transformative potential. By understanding how preferences work and using them strategically, citizens can move beyond the traditional ALP-LNP dominance. This approach empowers voters to choose candidates who best reflect their values, helping to build a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Encouraging Community Involvement
Engaging with your community strengthens democracy. Discuss voting strategies with family, friends, and local groups. Share the resources you’ve found useful and encourage others to research their candidates. By fostering a culture of informed voting, you help ensure that more voices are heard. Grassroots discussions can lead to a more engaged electorate and better representation for everyone.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Every vote matters. By understanding preferential voting, ignoring party “How to Vote” cards, scrutinising candidates, and preparing ahead of time, you can make a meaningful impact in the 2025 federal election. Your vote is not just a single tick on a ballot – it’s a statement of your values, priorities, and vision for Australia’s future.
Question for Readers
How do you plan to research and rank candidates in your electorate?
Call to Action
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Q&A Section:
Q: What is the difference between primary and secondary preferences?
A: Your primary preference is your first choice on the ballot. Secondary preferences are the candidates you rank next, in order of who you’d prefer if your first choice doesn’t win.
Q: Why should I ignore “How to Vote” cards?
A: “How to Vote” cards are party recommendations, not requirements. Ignoring them helps you stay true to your values rather than following a party’s strategy.
Q: How can I find a candidate’s voting record?
A: Websites like They Vote For You show detailed voting records, helping you understand where candidates stand on key issues.
References
How to Vote at a Polling Place: https://www.aec.gov.au/about_aec/Publications/easy-read/files/vote-polling-place-easy-eng.pdf
They Vote for You: https://theyvoteforyou.org.au/
How to Decide Your Preferences in Advance: Vote Easy: https://voteeasy.com.au/
This article was originally published on Social Justice Australia
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Liberal and Labor could gang up to try to end preferential voting. Along with compulsory voting, preferential voting gives Australians a unique chance to get a really democratic system Another factor is our national education system – it might not be great, not perfect, but it sure beats the education lack-of-system that applies in the USA. Liberal and Labor are starting to look like a gruesome twosome, with each one’s main focus is to damage the other – and little interest in the public good.
I’m enrolled in Kooyong, the MP, Monique Ryan, is a prominent Teal.
In my opinion, she is a dud. She refuses to answer reasonable questions about a range of important policy issues.
They’re not difficult, or trick questions. I’ve asked her via email and on social media. Zero response.
I think parliament can work with a handful of independent Teals, but 20+ of them would be a disaster.
They have no leadership and no coherent policy framework. They all want a place in the media spotlight
If the Teals were a political party, they would with some overall policies and a leadership that could negotiate, they’d be a good option.
Not while they’re a rabble of political opportunists.
I’ll be voting ALP.
Beyond that, my vote will be informal
Well I – as a voter in Gellibrand- with Tim Watts(Lab) as MP , have had not one single piece of information from any other candidate.
Wow denis seems like you don’t value the fact that the power of first preference is in cash.
The preferential system allows the question as to which candidate deserves your CASH
ps
AC it is not possible.
Thanks for your comment, wam!
I certainly agree that voters need to be aware that their first-preference votes have financial implications, particularly given that Australian electoral funding is directly tied to the number of first-preference votes received by candidates or parties.
I’m not sure what you meant by “AC, it is not possible.” Could you please clarify that point for me?
Thanks again for engaging in this important conversation!
Thanks for sharing your perspective, A Commentator—I understand your frustration. Communication and responsiveness from MPs are crucial, so it’s disappointing when constituents feel unheard.
You’re right that the Teals aren’t a traditional party with a single policy platform or formal leadership structure. Each independent stands for local priorities, though they broadly advocate for climate action, integrity, and gender equality.
Monique Ryan has had successes, notably pushing for climate action and integrity reform, but accountability through prompt responses is equally important. Your concerns highlight why all candidates must actively engage with their constituents.
Voting informally, however, reduces your influence. I encourage you to consider strategically using your preferences beyond ALP to ensure your vote fully counts toward candidates aligned with your values.
Thanks again for adding your voice!
Thanks for this informative guide to voting for a better government.
A general shorthand version would be:
.
VOTE 1 LABOR, vote LIARTBRAL$ and/or NOtional$ LAST
.
and fill in ALL THE SQUARES WITH A SEQUENCE OF CONSECUTIVE NUMBERS STARTING WITH ”1” FOR YOUR FIRST/BEST CHOICE OF CANDIDATES.
A SPECIAL REQUEST FOR AUSTRALIA:
VOTE 1 ALI FRANCE IN DICKSON & GIVE AUSTRALIA A CARING POLITICIAN.
Remember we want to DUMP DUTTON FROM DICKSON!!!
denis, AC is A Commentator who wants to vote ALP and informal.
I am suggesting it is impossible to have your vote counted, if you vote informal
ps
welcome to country got booed at the ceremony in Darwin. How effiinngg awful???