On occasions like this, I naturally turn to CJ

[melwil]

Think government isn't about you? How many of you have student loans to pay? How many have credit card debt? How many want clean air and clean water and civil liberties? How many want jobs? How many want kids? How many want their kids to go to good schools and walk on safe streets? Decisions are made by those who show up. CJ Cregg

Which is my way of saying make sure you're enrolled to vote. One of the joys we have in this country is compulsory voting - everyone's voice is supposed to be heard. The electoral rules are changed, so you need to get in immediately!

I also think you should care. Last election, when there was an issue I cared about, I emailed the politician. Some of you may remember my emails with former Senator John Cherry of the Democrats, who assured me that a preference deal with the right wing Family First party was no big deal because he was going to win anyway. (He also called me Melinda) He lost.

Pick a topic and follow it - be it education, health, the environment, work choices, the economy, housing affordability and interest rates, defense, gay rights, real solutions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait people. Learn what people stand for and use it to inform your vote.

Don't vote stupid.

Comments

[sangerin.livejournal.com]

That passage quoting CJ makes me cry.

[melwil.livejournal.com]

It just seems perfect for any election, but especially now with the government talks about how great the economy is, while we're struggling with HECS debts and saving to buy a house.

You can't claim the economy as your only achievement.

(Disgruntled because a Liberal ad basically just belittled anyone under the age of thirty)