Australia now has it’s first hung parliament in 70 years. The people spoke and told our politicians they were unhappy with the way they conduct themselves and the way this campaign was run. But can it change? And, if it does, can we maintain it?
As many of you who follow my tweets and read my blog know, I have a strong interest in politics, on the way it impacts our society, on the possibilities of certain initiatives, the changing dynamics of engagement thanks to our hyper-connected world, and the role government can play in the process of social innovation. I was also very disillusioned about this Australian Federal election campaign, it’s negativity and hollow messages.
Over the next couple of days this blog will include analysis on:
- The uncomfortable election campaign: Using old style campaign and selling methods in the new hyper-connected world.
- Power to the people – the people have spoken, and they are not happy: there was a larger swing to “donkey” invalid votes than there was to either political party.
- The possible advantages of a hung parliament: we have a chance to make this new period of government more accountable to the people, focused on issues not just the next poll or to win an election. Can we do it?
If you have an opinion on these issues please feel free to comment. I won’t pretend to know all the answers but I do know, if we start talking, start a movement for a change in politics, we will be better off for it.
Why do you say “either political party” when there are more than two?
Thanks Jason, agree totally and it’s part of the problem.
Do you think this is because we are so small as a country? Do you think that now the two main parties will be more open to the other parties, and Independents, following this result?
Old style election campaign vs the new hyper-connected world | Fulfil This! // Aug 26, 2010 at 11:23 am
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