Queenslanders are Embracing Optional Preferential Voting

Premier Peter Beattie has welcomed a survey by the Electoral Commission of Queensland which shows that most Queenslanders are embracing optional preferential voting.

"The report says that voters are increasingly endorsing the reason why optional preferential voting was introduced - that voters should not be forced into voting for candidates they do not support," said Mr Beattie.

"The report says that the February 2001 State Election was the fourth to be held with optional preferential voting and the results showed that electors were now thoroughly familiar with it.

"The survey shows the majority of voters are utilising optional preferential voting, with only 32 per cent of voters using the full preferential system, 60 per cent voting only for their first choice candidate and 8 per cent opting for a partial preference vote."

The survey was held in 11 electorates: * Capalaba, Indooroopilly, Moggill, Waterford in Brisbane * Burleigh, Cairns, Gympie and Toowoomba North in provincial Queensland * Burdekin, Nicklin and Warrego in rural Queensland.

The report says that all but two of the seats were decided on preferences.

Media Contact: Steve Bishop 07 3224 4500