Learning module:
Voting Defining Moments
Bringing it together
Reflections: The electoral process in Australia
The electoral process is one of the most important features of Australia’s democracy. The invention of the secret ballot and the introduction of compulsory voting have both helped to shape Australia’s democracy.
Below are two cartoons to help you reflect on the importance of both these electoral features.
Here is a cartoon showing the secret ballot:
Artokoloro / Alamy Stock Photo
1. Describe what is happening in the cartoon.
2. The words at the bottom of the cartoon are, ‘£10,000 a year and 30/- a week are equal this time’. What is the message of the cartoon? Do you agree with it?
Here is a cartoon about compulsory voting:
Peter Bromhead
3. Describe what is happening in the cartoon.
4. Is the cartoon in favour of compulsory voting or against it? Why do you think this?
5. Which of the two electoral features — the secret ballot and compulsory voting — do you think has had the biggest impact on Australian democracy? Give reasons for your answer.
