Vanessa Said:

Should the United States adopt the same system?

We Answered:

There's a positive in that it ensures all the people in the democracy have their say. Also, you could argue with the fact that it interferes with an individual's freedom. There's another negative in that you can get complete morons, who don't know anything about the candidates, voting.

I live in Australia and it seems to work okay (I hope). The cost of voting is minimal (small petrol price and small time). Speaking of which, I need to enrol myself on the electoral role.

Carol Said:

What percentage of Americans are registered to vote?

We Answered:

In america, approximately 66% of eligible voters are registered. And yes, we are so apathetic even on such an important issue. Most people believe it doesn't matter, when clearly, situations like Florida nad New Hampshire in 2000 and Ohio in 2004 show that every vote counts....

Irene Said:

Suggestion: America adopt a compulsary voting system like Australia.?

We Answered:

Good fer you, Roo. And yall got them purdy Alps to look at. Also.

Whatever. Yall say potato. We say spud.

Sean Said:

If you don't vote in Australia?

We Answered:

In Australia, the law says that if you are entitled to be enrolled and you are 18 years old or over, then you must enrol. Every Australian citizen (18 years or older) is required by law to vote. If an enrolled citizen fails to vote and is unable to provide a valid reason for not voting, a penalty is imposed. If the penalty is not paid the matter is taken to court.

Basically, you wont be sent to prison for failing to enrol or vote - only fined (and of course added to the electoral role from then on). If you refuse to pay the fine, then YES... you may be imprisoned for that.

Voting is compulsory in Australia to ensure that ALL citizens get to have a say in how the country is run. Without compulsory voting, it's believed that many of the people who most NEED to vote, wont even bother and perhaps only the rich, right wing parties will win stripping away awards and entitlements of everyday people and damaging education, hospitals and public transport. Voting is both a right, and a responsibility - I believe those that don't vote have no right to complain.

Jim Said:

Duel Citizen, living outside of country (USA) and I want to register to vote, how can I do this?

We Answered:

I would recommend that you contact the U.S. Consulate or Embassy in Australia. They can probably connect you to someone who can help you (if they can't help you themselves.) As a U.S. Citizen (even though you're living overseas), you do have the right to vote. Don't give up too quickly, even when they send you jumping through hoops.

Just out of intrest, were you born in the U.S.? If so, you DEFINITELY have the right to. If not, then it's possible that Answerman may be right, but I'm not sure.

Lillie Said:

Did you know there is a contest going on right now to win a free trip to Australia Zoo?

We Answered:

thanks for sharing the site. I try my best to help you. Good luck!