Concerns and Potential Impacts
Western Australians will face a significant change in their voting system for the upcoming state election. The upper house, the Legislative Council, will transition from district-based voting to a Senate-style proportional representation system. This means voters will choose 36 candidates from across the state, regardless of their district.
Advocates for the change believe it will better reflect the democratic process and allow for greater representation of minor parties. However, opponents worry that regional voters will be left behind, as there is no longer a guarantee of regional representation in the upper house.
Previously, the upper house consisted of six districts, three metropolitan and three regional. These were abolished by the Mark McGowan-led government in 2021. This decision has raised concerns about the potential for reduced regional representation, as there is no longer a requirement for MPs to be based in specific regions.
Political analysts like Peter Kennedy believe the new system could lead to a more diverse upper house, with no single party holding a majority. This would require any new government to work with minor parties or independents to pass legislation. However, it could also lead to a decrease in regional representation, as MPs may not feel the same need to connect with voters in specific regions.
The potential impact on regional representation is a major concern for many. Liberal MP Steve Thomas argues that the old system guaranteed 18 regional-based MPs, while the new system could lead to a decrease in regional representation over time. This could make it more difficult for people in regional areas to have their voices heard in parliament.
Former Labor premier Brian Burke also expresses concern about the potential for a city-centric upper house, as there is no requirement for candidates to be geographically spread. He believes that regional voters may be well represented in the short term, but that both major parties will likely prioritize metropolitan candidates in the long run.
The upcoming election will be the first test of the new voting system. It remains to be seen how it will impact the composition of the upper house and the representation of regional voters.
8 Comments
Rotfront
“Yes, it’s different, but evolution in our electoral system is necessary to reflect today’s social and political landscapes.”
Karamba
“Switching to a statewide vote for the upper house means regional voices will be drowned out by city-centric politics.”
Matzomaster
“The abolition of geographical districts clearly favors metropolitan power over rural needs – a major democratic deficit.”
Rotfront
“This change might force regional voters to fight an uphill battle, as parties are likely to prioritize city areas.”
Karamba
“This reform could foster stronger accountability and collaboration as MPs work together to pass legislation.”
Leonardo
“Transitioning to a Senate-style system could lead to less balanced decision making and weakened regional representation.”
Michelangelo
“I fear that without territorial accountability, regional issues will be forgotten in favor of major party agendas.”
Raphael
“This new system no longer guarantees regional representation – it’s a slap in the face to voters in rural areas.”