Public to have a say on electoral reform

Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie is seeking public opinion on future electoral reform in Queensland following the release of a discussion green paper today.

Mr Bleijie said openness and transparency was a key priority for the Newman Government and this was a chance for the public to express their views on important policy reform.

“The Newman Government wants to ensure the state has an electoral system that meets high standards of integrity and accountability,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Fair and effective electoral laws are central to the promotion of participation in our democracy.

“For that reason we have prioritised the review of the Electoral Act 1992, which governs political donations, public funding for elections and election campaign expenditure.”

Mr Bleijie said the paper was open to all Queenslanders and encouraged the community to have a say on potential electoral reforms.

“For a democracy to remain vibrant and strong, the community must have confidence in its electoral system,” Mr Bleijie said.  

“In order to do this, we must continually review the rules and processes that govern our electoral system to ensure they are right for modern times.

“The discussion paper also covers other important topics such as voter enrolment, optional preferential voting and political advertising.”

However, Mr Bleijie made it clear submissions did not need to be limited to topics covered by the discussion paper.

“The options in the discussion paper are not intended to be exhaustive and the Government is after a variety of opinions and ideas,” he said.

The submission period is open until 1 March 2013.

For more information or to download a copy of the discussion paper visit www.justice.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 3 January 2013

Media Contact: Lisa O’Donnell 0400 986 432