“The responsibility of electing an appropriate government falls on each of us. Ensuring we understand the options and ramifications of our vote is part of our civic responsibility,” writes political columnist MICHAEL MOORE.

If you ever had a doubt about the importance of elections, just look at the US. 

As Australia heads to an election on May 3, it’s time to take stock, assess our own engagement and consider election options seriously.

Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs were a slap in the face of so many of America’s allies. Since World War II Australian leaders from both sides of politics have sycophantically followed US policy again and again. And it has been to our detriment. 

The Vietnam and Middle East wars are good examples along with the American lead on ridiculous drug policies.

The US has been a good friend to Australia and many other allies for many years. However, under the latest circumstances, it’s time to reconsider our relationship with that country. And it is happening. 

Prime Minister Albanese described the tariffs as “having no basis in logic” and that they are “not the act of a friend”. 

Not so long ago the US was leading using its power to pressure the world on free markets. Then the American people voted for Donald Trump. On his “Liberation Day” he declared “for decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike”. 

This is the pot calling the kettle black!

Mr Trump was elected in 2024 with 49.8 per cent of the popular vote, ahead of Kamala Harris on 48.3 per cent. However, he did win 312 of the critical Electoral College votes compared to Ms Harris’ 226.

However, only 63.9 per cent of eligible voters turned out to cast their vote. By American standards this is a high turnout. There have only been three elections in the last 112 years that have exceeded 63 per cent of voters casting a ballot. Think of the impact, not just in the US but in the world, had a much higher percentage of voters turned out.

In Australia we can expect a voter turnout of more than 90 per cent. With that comes the responsibility for all citizens to consider options carefully.

A small minority in Australia bemoan the notion of compulsory voting. In reality, Australia has compulsory attendance – no one can force someone in a secret ballot to cast a vote. It is rare, but some deliberately spoil a ballot paper or submit a blank one.

There are ways for voters to keep themselves informed. The Canberra Alliance for Participatory Democracy (CAPaD) seeks to inform people regarding elections. 

Convenor, Dr Peter Tait, explains: “We aim to educate voters, candidates, and parties that elections can be more than just promises and pork-barrelling.”

CAPaD’s recent run of election forums included a total of 140 attendees who participated in person. Others attended electronically. Interesting and insightful video clips are available on the CAPaD Elections Page. It is worth a visit to hear directly from a range of candidates across the political spectrum regarding Canberra and the federal election.

Dr Tait’s reflection on the forums run by CAPaD include, “noting perceptions of policymaking influenced by vested interests… voters are shifting away from the major party duopoly, recognising the value of a strong crossbench in demonstrating alternative ways our political system can function”.

He added: “To rebuild trust, major parties must show how their candidates will engage their electorate communities, and alternative candidates must clarify their approach to representation.”

ACT senator David Pocock has demonstrated just how much impact an independent can have. By listening to his constituency, not being bound by party solidarity or vested interests, and by intelligently reflecting on the most effective policy for the good of the nation, Senator Pocock has carved out huge support amongst the electorate.

The so-called “teal independents” have done a similar thing in the House of Representatives.

Senator Katy Gallagher, as Minister for Finance, has also had a major impact on government policy and remains attentive to the needs of Canberrans. Additionally, each of the electorates in Canberra is represented by a member of the Labor Party. 

With very few exceptions, it has been this way since the people of the ACT had a large enough population to have our own electorates. The responsibility of electing an appropriate government falls on each of us. Ensuring we understand the options and ramifications of our vote is part of our civic responsibility.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006.