Voting 101

Those who know me well know that I am a bit of a political animal — the topic of conversation over the dinner table when I was growing up always revolved more around politics and current affairs than the weather and the week’s footy results.

So, with a federal election expected to be announced any tick, I’m really in my element.

I understand that most people don’t share my passion for politics, but I think it’s important that as citizens, we all participate in elections in as informed a manner as possible. That means knowing how the political system works and being fully aware of all your rights and responsibilities as a voter.

Reading the Lifehacker site today, I was reminded about the excellent resources that the ABC site has when it comes to elections. The ABC will launch its election site later this week, but you can its election analyst Antony Green’s terrific how-to guide on election basics on his blog in the meantime.

It has all you need to know for election day and what you need to do beforehand. You’ll find useful links for checking that you are on the electoral roll and where your nearest polling booth is. You’ll also find out how to cast a valid vote so you can be sure that it counts.

It’s quite concise and written in accessible language, so reading it won’t be too much of a chore, even for the apolitical. And for political tragics like me, Antony’s blog is packed with loads of other interesting information that will set the pulses racing.

Antony Green’s How to Vote Guide