What is democratic participation?

Democratic participation in Australia is the active involvement of citizens in the political and civic life of the country. It extends beyond voting at elections to include joining political parties, engaging with elected representatives, attending public meetings, participating in consultations, advocating through community organisations, joining protests, and standing for elected office.

Compulsory voting is the most distinctive feature. Australian citizens aged 18 or over must enrol on the electoral roll and vote at every federal and state election. Failure to vote without valid reason attracts a fine. Turnout at federal elections averages about 92 per cent, one of the highest in the world. Local government elections, conducted under state legislation, are voluntary in most states (Victoria and Tasmania use compulsory voting for local elections).

Beyond voting, participation takes many forms. About 10 to 15 per cent of Australians belong to a political party, with the Labor Party, the Liberal Party of Australia, the National Party of Australia, the Australian Greens, and a growing range of minor parties and independents (particularly the Climate 200-supported teal independents who won six lower house seats in 2022) all providing avenues for direct engagement. Writing to local MPs, signing petitions (including ePetitions to the House of Representatives and Senate), attending public meetings, and joining community advocacy organisations all extend the democratic conversation.

Public consultation frameworks give citizens direct input into decisions. Most major federal and state policy changes are preceded by consultation papers and public submission periods. Local councils publish draft plans for public comment. Royal Commissions and parliamentary inquiries invite public submissions. The 2023 Voice referendum was preceded by months of public debate and produced intense civic engagement. The Australian Citizen's Assembly model, where randomly selected citizens deliberate on specific policy questions, has been used at federal and state level for issues including climate policy and democratic reform.