Defining Moments: Secret ballot

In 1856, Victoria introduced the modern secret ballot and gave voting rights to all adult male citizens. See this defining moment in Australia’s history brought to life, as written by historian David Hunt.

Activities

1. What was the British open voting system?

2. What were the advantages of the secret ballot? Do you agree that it was a better system of voting?

3. Why do you think the secret ballot was later taken up by other democracies, including Britain?

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Black and white illustration of men at a polling booth.

1856

Secret ballot introduced

Cartoon depicting the interior of pub in which dozens of men are brawling before a group of men on a stage. The caption reads: ‘A North Bourke candidate addressing his constituency on a “national” question’.

Electioneering in the pub, published by Edgar Ray and Frederick Sinnett, 1855

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A series of huts with gerry-rigged frames from which are suspended what appear to be canvas chutes extending down into holes in the ground. In the foreground three men are working around a pony and cart, which is filled with soil.

Colonial Australia Defining Moments, 1788–1900

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