AUSTRALIANS: What do you want from minor parties in the Senate?

Question

The purpose of the Senate is to put a brake on the Lower House [House of Representatives] & allow improvements to legislation by amendments. It's also to ensure representation of all sectors of society, not just the broad majority. (Remember, democracy doesn't mean a dictatorship of the majority, but equal representation for all. This is why senators are elected by proportional representation, not first-past-the-post voting.)

Let's set an agenda for our Senators, who are elected to represent ALL of us.

It seems to me that the most vulnerable in our society have been neglected, and in some cases actively oppressed - refugees, the mentally ill, age pensioners, carers, the chronically ill and the disabled. I would like to see a Senate that protects these people.

I'd also like to see a Senate that strives to stop the wholesale destruction of our native flora and fauna, when thousands of species of plants and animals are threatened with extinction.

John and Witch ~ please elaborate: what else, specifically, do you want from the Senate?

Answer 1

My wish is that the ALP will win the lower house and that the Greens will control the senate. I do not want it controlled by either Family First or the Coalition because I feel they have nothing to offer. I think the Greens would support Labor on most issues but would be a good influence in the areas of the environment and sensible solutions to our coming energy crisis. The right wing mob would give us more of the rubbish we have had plus 25 nuclear power stations to help their rich buddies make an easy dollar. No thanks.

Answer 2

By voting for left wing parties as first preference and labour as second preference.This may force Labour to adopt a more radical social and political agendas.

Answer 3

To stick to their mandates most of all, which as you say - helps keep democracy representative.

Now I know this is a fantasy, but wouldn't you like to see the entire Chaser team elected to the senate, cameras and all (I'm going to post this as a question). Might help keep em honest.

Answer 4

From what I've been told, Australians want the same thing the USA wants from its Congress... just to do what you promised to do when before we elected you.

Answer 5

the balance for the greens and a spine

Answer 6

I think we all, as intelligent Australians would agree with you.