Election

[KatiesMum]

Well the election has been called. We are all off to vote on 21st August ....


So who will you be voting for?

Have you decided, or will you wait for the detailed policies to be revealed?

[Cromo]

I've always voted Labor, but unsure this election.

I'm going to wait and see what both parties come out with.

[kuddles]

This will be an interesting poll to follow.

[Little-Pink-Hen]

no way will i vite for abbott :no::no:

[KatiesMum]

Its certainly hard ....

I HATE Tony Abbot. Hate him so much I cannot believe that the Libs put him up there.

BUT - I hate Labor even more. I just cannot and will not bring myself to vote for them.

So sadly, once again it is the lesser of two evils. I will still vote Liberal even though I hope beyond all hopes that the first thing they do once they get in is dump Abbot.


Heard a good quote today
'The only problem with elections is that the only choice is to vote for a politician' :p

[silverstars]

Will either vote Greens with pref to Labor

or Labor

no way in the world I could ever vote for that awful man Tony Abbott!

[3boysnpregnant]

Labor I'd rather die then vote in Tony Abbott and the liberal party!

[kuddles]

Its certainly hard ....

I HATE Tony Abbot. Hate him so much I cannot believe that the Libs put him up there.

BUT - I hate Labor even more. I just cannot and will not bring myself to vote for them.

So sadly, once again it is the lesser of two evils. I will still vote Liberal even though I hope beyond all hopes that the first thing they do once they get in is dump Abbot.


Heard a good quote today
'The only problem with elections is that the only choice is to vote for a politician' :p

That is exactly how I feel. :)
I am very cranky with the labor party. :no:

[Benji]

I think they're pretty much one in the same, but Labor is *slightly* the lesser of two evils. I'll vote Greens anyway.

If Tony Abbott is made PM I honestly want to move to another country. I'm not kidding. I'm still trying to convince DP.

[MummaBear03]

I think they're pretty much one in the same, but Labor is *slightly* the lesser of two evils. I'll vote Greens anyway.

If Tony Abbott is made PM I honestly want to move to another country. I'm not kidding. I'm still trying to convince DP.

I agree!

Actually looking at moving somewhere far, far away, just don't think I can learn another language in time!

[bumMum]

probably the greens.
if the liberals get in I will probably cry

[Benji]

I agree!

Actually looking at moving somewhere far, far away, just don't think I can learn another language in time!

Well I've heard New Zealand is nice, then we wouldn't have to go learning any other languages too suddenly.

[FearlessLeader]

for those voting for the greens, do you think your vote will 'count' ie does your greens candidate have a chance of getting in? I'm in the seat of melbourne so if i voted green there's a good chance it would help sway the result. I'm voting labor though. Was quite angry with the greens on ets and also that they contacted me via email asking for donations and wouldn't tell me where they got my email from. Plus i am a die hard labor supporter, and i think that krudd did a bl00dy good job keeping this country afloat during the gfc and also went a fair way to repair some of the damage done by heartless howard (asylum seekers, apology). I cannot believe that the general public held the g'ment accountable for the big mining companies acting like the greeedy soulless b&stards they are. That's what happens when you de-unionise folks, the workers get no say. If all the miners were unionised the companies wouldn't get away with sucking their workers dry if they're asked to pay their fair share.

[Benji]

for those voting for the greens, do you think your vote will 'count' ie does your greens candidate have a chance of getting in? I'm in the seat of melbourne so if i voted green there's a good chance it would help sway the result. I'm voting labor though. Was quite angry with the greens on ets and also that they contacted me via email asking for donations and wouldn't tell me where they got my email from. Plus i am a die hard labor supporter, and i think that krudd did a bl00dy good job keeping this country afloat during the gfc and also went a fair way to repair some of the damage done by heartless howard (asylum seekers, apology). I cannot believe that the general public held the g'ment accountable for the big mining companies acting like the greeedy soulless b&stards they are. That's what happens when you de-unionise folks, the workers get no say. If all the miners were unionised the companies wouldn't get away with sucking their workers dry if they're asked to pay their fair share.

I'm realistic enough to know it's highly unlikely we'd have a Greens PM but every vote counts and the Greens are just powerful enough to get a few seats at the very least.

[Ana Gram]

for those voting for the greens, do you think your vote will 'count' ie does your greens candidate have a chance of getting in?

Yep, I'm in Melbourne too so my vote for the Greens is going to help them get in here :D

[Blairysmum]

Australia is a two party preferd country so the greens actually give there votes to either labour or liberal so.... There will not be a greens pm!!

[Lillynix]

I'm a Greens voter :D

And yes it will make a difference, i'm in Hobart and we actually ended up with a hung parliament with our State elections this year due to the influx in Greens votes!

[xkwzit]

I am undecided.

I looked at my candidates today and was seriously thinking Greens, until I found out that means I'll be voting for Andrew Bartlett. Yes that dude who USED to be a democrat, got drunk, verballed some chick in parliament. Not sure I can vote for him...but I also dislike things about every other political party, they are either too mainstream or too out there :D

[SassyMummy]

I'll wait and see what the greens come up with... and if it's anything decent, I'll send my vote their way... with preference to Labor.

Circumstances would have to be pretty extreme for me to vote Liberal, but Liberal with The Mad Monk as leader? It would have to be a cold day in hell before I'd send my vote his way.

My choices as a woman might be being removed already (homebirth, for example), but I also believe that Abbott's ideal Australia would be abortion-free, contraception-free... just about everything a right-winged nutter wants.

I know he wouldn't get to make these kinds of decisions on his own, but I don't want a Catholic conservative, who is actually VERY conservative, to be the man in charge, trying to spread the message to my daughter that her virginity is some sort of precious gift she should save for marriage, for her husband.

Not particularly impressed with the Labor party either, but Julia Gillard as leader teaches my daughter that she, as a woman, can rule a country. She teaches my daughter that being a woman isn't just about getting married and popping out kids (as Julia Gillard has done neither).

I can think of nothing worse than Abbott ruling our country. Well, maybe Hitler...

[lambjam]

Australia is a two party preferd country so the greens actually give there votes to either labour or liberal so.... There will not be a greens pm!!

This kind of comment always puzzles me... how do you believe the Greens "give" their votes away? A vote for the Greens is a vote for the Greens; who you rank 2nd, 3rd, etc is up to you, not them.

[zephani]

I'm realistic enough to know it's highly unlikely we'd have a Greens PM but every vote counts and the Greens are just powerful enough to get a few seats at the very least.

:iagree: I think that Labor will get back in but I believe that the Greens will get more votes than ever before! Plus having a few Greens in parliament is great for debates, decision making and trying to keep the other party's on the straight and narrow (if that's possible :p)

I also think that Liberal will struggle to get votes as many people are scared about Work Choices coming back in.

[1+1=5]

i have no idea. i have always voted labor, but i have no confidence in Julia Gillard. I would feel better about placing a blank vote than picking any of the parties.

[Ana Gram]

Australia is a two party preferd country so the greens actually give there votes to either labour or liberal so.... There will not be a greens pm!!

No, that only happens if you follow the "How to Vote" cards provided by them. You can choose where your preferences go.

[MummaBear03]

No, that only happens if you follow the "How to Vote" cards provided by them. You can choose where your preferences go.

Think people are confused about that.

[Ana Gram]

Think people are confused about that.

Understandable but really, if you don't want your preferences to go to the two major parties, don't give them your preferences (not you specifically Mummabear, the collective you).

I mean, I might decide to vote Greens as 1 and the Socialists as 2, for example.

[FearlessLeader]

Originally Posted by Blairysmum http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?p=4961305#post4961305)
Australia is a two party preferd country so the greens actually give there votes to either labour or liberal so.... There will not be a greens pm!!


No, that only happens if you follow the "How to Vote" cards provided by them. You can choose where your preferences go.


no she's right, you do need to have a preference after your chosen candidate. Either you choose one, or they choose one for you. Either way, you can't just say "i vote Greens and no-one else". If you're going to vote for a minority party, unless the candidate has a chance of getting voted in in your seat, then your vote will go to another candidate.

[lotti]

I'll be voting Liberal. :)

[MummaBear03]

Originally Posted by Blairysmum http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?p=4961305#post4961305)
Australia is a two party preferd country so the greens actually give there votes to either labour or liberal so.... There will not be a greens pm!!




no she's right, you do need to have a preference after your chosen candidate. Either you choose one, or they choose one for you. Either way, you can't just say "i vote Greens and no-one else". If you're going to vote for a minority party, unless the candidate has a chance of getting voted in in your seat, then your vote will go to another candidate.

But it will go to the one you want it to go to.

[FearlessLeader]

Understandable but really, if you don't want your preferences to go to the two major parties, don't give them your preferences (not you specifically Mummabear, the collective you).

I mean, I might decide to vote Greens as 1 and the Socialists as 2, for example.


so your vote will effectively be a labor vote. And it won't matter anyway as Wills is pretty much a safe Labor seat.

[FearlessLeader]

But it will go to the one you want it to go to.


But she didn't say it wouldn't. She said that a greens vote will be passed on to another canidate (in most seats)

I'm not saying not to vote for minorty parties, I'm saying that it's also important to think about where your vote is going to end up in reality.

[Ana Gram]

so your vote will effectively be a labor vote. And it won't matter anyway as Wills is pretty much a safe Labor seat.

Sorry, but how does that work? If I put Labor at the bottom of my preferences, how do they get my vote??

[FearlessLeader]

Sorry, but how does that work? If I put Labor at the bottom of my preferences, how do they get my vote??


because if there's no clear winner they keep distributing preferences until there is one. So, if the Greens and Socialist Alliance have Labor as 3rd preference after each other then that's where your vote will go. If you put Liberal as your 3rd preference, however, that's where your vote will go.

[lambjam]

But she didn't say it wouldn't. She said that a greens vote will be passed on to another canidate (in most seats)

I'm not saying not to vote for minorty parties, I'm saying that it's also important to think about where your vote is going to end up in reality.

True, but you have control over that. If you don't like who the Greens have given their preferences to then don't follow their how to vote card. The notion that the Greens give their votes away seems to be deeply rooted in people's minds...

[Ana Gram]

And?

I'm not going to change my vote on the off chance there might not be a clear winner. I want my vote to go to the Greens. I will distribute my preferences after that (there were no less than 45 choices last time I voted, granted it was a state election but I took the time to fill them all in).

I do not see a vote for the Greens as a "wasted vote" as so many people say.

[FearlessLeader]

I'm not saying your vote doesn't count! I'm saying it's not true to say that your vote won't be redistributed, because it probably will.

It is most definitely not a wasted vote. The more votes the Greens get, there more the two major parties will sit up and realise that people are concerned about certain issues like the environment and asylum seekers.

[sunnymummy]

I think some Hubbers are confused about different voting for the Senate and for the House of Representatives.

In the Senate there are two ways to vote, If you vote 'above the line', you put #1 in one box only. By doing this you are agreeing for that party to direct your preferences according to their group voting tickets. These will be available prior to the election.
If you are happy with that then go for it. If not, you should vote 'below the line' where you fill in ALL the boxes in order of your choice.
The the prefences will be directed as you have indicated.

In the House of Representatives, there is only one way to vote. You must fill in all the boxes in order of your preference.(If you only put a #1, you vote is informal and will not be counted at all.) You can direct the preferences any way you like. How-to-vote cards are suggestions only and you are not obliged to follow them.

In Australia we have the secret ballot so you vote for whover you choose.

It is your democratic right, use it, don't waste it.

More info here (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?t=340172)

[Rainbow Mum]

I will NOT vote for the liberal party or Tony Abbott.

Tony Abbott is a sexist, racist, bible bashing homophobic, bigot.

His stance on contraception, abortion, asylum seekers is appalling and will drag us back to the 1950's.

Any man who would discuss his daughters virginity in the nantional arena is a man who does not respect women.

Any politician who cannot seperate church and state should not be a politician.

As for Julia Gillarrd and those who say poor Kev she stabbed him in the back. How do we know what really went on in that room that night ? We don't, the media puts it's spin on it, full of supposition etc. The labour party obviously lost confidence in Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard was strongly encouraged to take over the leadership, so is it her fault Rudd would not back down when it became obvious that his own party was upset with him? People say she didn't have to step up. Well she 'd have been a fool not to step up.

Don't forget workchoices people, the liberal party say that workchoices are gone ......yeah but their equivalent program with a new name is just around the corner.

[silverstars]

I will NOT vote for the liberal party or Tony Abbott.

Tony Abbott is a sexist, racist, bible bashing homophobic, bigot.

His stance on contraception, abortion, asylum seekers is appalling and will drag us back to the 1950's.

Any man who would discuss his daughters virginity in the nantional arena is a man who does not respect women.

Any politician who cannot seperate church and state should not be a politician.

As for Julia Gillarrd and those who say poor Kev she stabbed him in the back. How do we know what really went on in that room that night ? We don't, the media puts it's spin on it, full of supposition etc. The labour party obviously lost confidence in Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard was strongly encouraged to take over the leadership, so is it her fault Rudd would not back down when it became obvious that his own party was upset with him? People say she didn't have to step up. Well she 'd have been a fool not to step up.

Don't forget workchoices people, the liberal party say that workchoices are gone ......yeah but their equivalent program with a new name is just around the corner.

I agree with everything you have stated here. Spot on! ;)

[WhiteMagicMother]

I'm surprised everyone is talking about the leader of the parties not the actual PARTY they are voting for.
The leaders don't make decisions or do the research, they're just the ones to get dumped when the PARTY stuffs up. It was all of the party making decisions when Rudd got dumped, will be no diff now with a new leader, same ppl making the decisions.
Whether or not you like Abbott shouldn't sway your voting without considering their policies, that goes for any party.
If voting other than the 2 parties, you also need to take into consideration that parties associations (aka if you vote for Greens you're giving your 2nd vote to Gillard party).

I believe you can't understand the family life without having one.
I'm stunned by so many of our politicians parents being from another country.

I'll be voting for Abbott because I like the people behind him doing the work. Joe Hockey is my fav. Government is all about money, without it our country will fall apart (and to be honest i'm sik of seeing my taxes go everywhere but to something that would benefit MY family), and he comes from the best background for the job, he is also a family man.
On the other hand I'm hoping if Gillard gets in for 1 more term they might demote Abbott for Hockey.

[LFurness]

I am going to vote lib, because i refuse to vote in a snake like Julia. It was disgusting what that party did to Kevin Rudd especially her. Also i believe Lib will be better for families.

[LFurness]

I'm surprised everyone is talking about the leader of the parties not the actual PARTY they are voting for.
The leaders don't make decisions or do the research, they're just the ones to get dumped when the PARTY stuffs up. It was all of the party making decisions when Rudd got dumped, will be no diff now with a new leader, same ppl making the decisions.
If voting other than the 2 parties, you also need to take into consideration that parties associations (aka if you vote for Greens you're giving your 2nd vote to Gillard party).

I believe you can't understand the family life without having one.


I'll be voting for Abbott because I like the people behind him doing the work. Joe Hockey is my fav. Government is all about money, without it our country will fall apart (and to be honest i'm sik of seeing my taxes go everywhere but to something that would benefit MY family), and he comes from the best background for the job, he is also a family man.

:iagree: This is so spot on.

[MummaBear03]

Also i believe Lib will be better for families.

In what ways?

Also, I agree with everything Rainbow Mum said :)

[Jakois]

I will NOT vote for the liberal party or Tony Abbott.

Tony Abbott is a sexist, racist, bible bashing homophobic, bigot.

His stance on contraception, abortion, asylum seekers is appalling and will drag us back to the 1950's.

Any man who would discuss his daughters virginity in the nantional arena is a man who does not respect women.

Any politician who cannot seperate church and state should not be a politician.

As for Julia Gillarrd and those who say poor Kev she stabbed him in the back. How do we know what really went on in that room that night ? We don't, the media puts it's spin on it, full of supposition etc. The labour party obviously lost confidence in Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard was strongly encouraged to take over the leadership, so is it her fault Rudd would not back down when it became obvious that his own party was upset with him? People say she didn't have to step up. Well she 'd have been a fool not to step up.

Don't forget workchoices people, the liberal party say that workchoices are gone ......yeah but their equivalent program with a new name is just around the corner.

I agree :thumbsup:.


I am going to vote lib, because i refuse to vote in a snake like Julia. It was disgusting what that party did to Kevin Rudd especially her. Also i believe Lib will be better for families.

Better for families? How so? With Workchoices implemented again:laughing::laughing::laughing:.

[~Candy~]

I will NOT vote for the liberal party or Tony Abbott.

Tony Abbott is a sexist, racist, bible bashing homophobic, bigot.

His stance on contraception, abortion, asylum seekers is appalling and will drag us back to the 1950's.

Any man who would discuss his daughters virginity in the nantional arena is a man who does not respect women.

Any politician who cannot seperate church and state should not be a politician.

As for Julia Gillarrd and those who say poor Kev she stabbed him in the back. How do we know what really went on in that room that night ? We don't, the media puts it's spin on it, full of supposition etc. The labour party obviously lost confidence in Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard was strongly encouraged to take over the leadership, so is it her fault Rudd would not back down when it became obvious that his own party was upset with him? People say she didn't have to step up. Well she 'd have been a fool not to step up.

Don't forget workchoices people, the liberal party say that workchoices are gone ......yeah but their equivalent program with a new name is just around the corner.

Great post :thumbsup:

Tony Abbot is disgusting...frolicking about the pool in his speedos :barf:
Greens always get my vote, then Labor.

[Nowhere]

I am really unsure this time around, Its like being stuck between a rock and a hard place, Yes i know there are other parties but the leading party wil be Labour or Lib.

I dont like Tony Abbot, he is too churchy for me, he is sexist and arogant just to mention a few of his traits.

As for the labour party I do not like the underhanded way that Julia Gillard became the PM, To me it showed a complete lack of integrity but the labour party it seemed sneaky to me. Yes I know it wasnt her decision on her own it was something done as a party but I just dont like it.

I love the fact that she is the first women PM, BUT again I dont like the way she got there, also with her being a women and Tony abbot being a sexist snake I do wory that this elecation wil be bassed on feminist versus sexism votes, and that would be a shame, personaly I am putting aside the fact that she is female and he is male as I dont think that should be a determining factor in MY vote, ( not saying shouldnt be for others, please note).


As far as partys go they are both very conservative partys, they dont really differ that much IMO from each other.

As far as campaigns go, I dont like how Abbot has started his, by slagging of the labour party, and saying it will be a nasty fight, I found that very petty and high schoolish.

Yet Juila Gillard spent the day yesterday kissing babies at the welcoming babies thing they had over there, to me not a great move, Kissin hundeds of babies is a silly thing to do when we are in the peak of RSV season but hey thats just me paranoid pete lol

So yer i have no idea

[LFurness]

Can i ask what will Julia do for Australian families??? As she knows all about what Australian families need since she has no family and isn't born in Australia?

[MummaBear03]

Can i ask what will Julia do for Australian families??? As she knows all about what Australian families need since she has no family and isn't born in Australia?

The ALP made it so that every Australian had access to health services. The ALP brought in Family Assistance. The ALP are the ones that have done all the things associated with helping families.

What has the NLP done for families?

[Shh]

Can I just clarify *again* that you choose your preferences. A vote to the Greens does not automatically go to Labor (and for some seats Greens how to vote cards will not suggest the Labor candidate as #2). It is your choice whether to follow the how to vote card or not.

In regards to my choice - financially I am traditionally better off under a Liberal government. However I believe we are better off, overall, as a country under Labor or Greens.

[LFurness]

The ALP made it so that every Australian had access to health services. The ALP brought in Family Assistance. The ALP are the ones that have done all the things associated with helping families.

What has the NLP done for families?
ALP is also the party that put Australia back into debt after the NLP got us out. They are also the party who put this outrageous super tax on mining which DOES affect mining families (me included). All ALP is, is a government run but invisible men who don't care about Australia only what they can get for themselves.
NLP aren't in yet so you'll have to wait and see what they do :australia-flag-06:.
This is all ill say on this, can't be bothered with back and forth arguing as your opinion is yours and my opinion is mine.

[MummaBear03]

ALP is also the party that put Australia back into debt after the NLP got us out. They are also the party who put this outrageous super tax on mining which DOES affect mining families (me included). All ALP is, is a government run but invisible men who don't care about Australia only what they can get for themselves.
NLP aren't in yet so you'll have to wait and see what they do :australia-flag-06:.
This is all ill say on this, can't be bothered with back and forth arguing as your opinion is yours and mine opinion is mine.

And the ALP has just steered us out of the GFC that the NLP was driving us into :)

[Jakois]

Can i ask what will Julia do for Australian families??? As she knows all about what Australian families need since she has no family and isn't born in Australia?

Last I checked Julia Gillard has a family, she may not be married with children, but she does most certainly have a family;).

I think that your comment was quite narrow minded.

[lambjam]

Last I checked Julia Gillard has a family, she may not be married with children, but she does most certainly have a family;).

And God forbid an immigrant being PM! What next, descendants of British convicts?

[Jakois]

And God forbid an immigrant being PM! What next, descendants of British convicts?

I know, the shame of it all :no::no::no:...........:laughing:.

[Ana Gram]

I am saddened by the opinion that a politician must have a family in order to know what is good for families :no:

And why the fact she was born in Wales even an issue???

[zonlach]

I don't like what Labor did to Rudd, but I HATE Abbott with a passion.

Personally, I'd prefer to vote the Australian Sex Party in (not what it sounds like, they're actually a pretty good party), but seeing as that's incredibly unlikely I'd probably vote for Labor, because they're NOT Abbott.

[WhiteMagicMother]

I'm curious to know why everyone hates Abbott so much? He hasn't even been PM yet to do anything we disapprove of :laughing:

[Ana Gram]

He doesn't need to be PM to do something I disapprove of. He has been in politics long enough to make a judgement on him. Every time he opens his mouth, a gaff falls out. His position of abortion and attitude towards women is enough for me.

[ThereIsNoPlaceLikeHome]

Can i ask what will Julia do for Australian families??? As she knows all about what Australian families need since she has no family and isn't born in Australia?


What has being born and immigrating to Australia when a toodler got anything to do with understanding Australians? Isn't she after all an Australian? She has lived here for 40+ years, is an Australian citizen, was educated here etc...

Also I don't believe you have to have children to be able to and understand 'families' as in my mind families include all types of households even those that for whatever reason don't have children.

Also as for the OP, I am voting for the Greens. :yes:

[WhiteMagicMother]

What has being born and immigrating to Australia when a toodler got anything to do with understanding Australians? Isn't she after all an Australian? She has lived here for 40+ years, is an Australian citizen, was educated here etc...

Also I don't believe you have to have children to be able to and understand 'families' as in my mind families include all types of households even those that for whatever reason don't have children.

Also as for the OP, I am voting for the Greens. :yes:

I think it means she will possibly be bias on allowing people from her part of the world in to our country. I don't think it's a huge issue though, i'm already the only aussie in my street :laughing:
Homes with children are usually the ones greatest affected by changes in the economy.

[silverstars]

Last I checked Julia Gillard has a family, she may not be married with children, but she does most certainly have a family;).

I think that your comment was quite narrow minded.

:iagree:

[WhiteMagicMother]

And the ALP has just steered us out of the GFC that the NLP was driving us into :)

Using the huge surplus created by the NLP, that they worked hard on since the huge debt left by ALP.
I don't think either party can take credit alone. Personally i'm ****ed everyone else got to spend my tax money whilst we get nothing but more tax bills.

[MsMummy]

I will vote for the Greens in both houses, and preference Labor in the lower house.

I'm fairly ticked off at Labor, but would never vote conservative.

[Jakois]

Using the huge surplus created by the NLP, that they worked hard on since the huge debt left by ALP.
I don't think either party can take credit alone. Personally i'm ****ed everyone else got to spend my tax money whilst we get nothing but more tax bills.

Everybody got to spend YOUR tax dollars:laughing:.

We all pay tax - my household pays more than I care to mention. They are not my tax dollars or your tax dollars, they are the countries tax dollars.

[WhiteMagicMother]

Everybody got to spend YOUR tax dollars:laughing:.

We all pay tax - my household pays more than I care to mention. They are not my tax dollars or your tax dollars, they are the countries tax dollars.

Yes true... but I like to complain anyway, I hate the tax system here. I believe in an even tax system.

And don't get me started on money that should be ours :laughing: Our mining companies sending all our money over east to fix other peoples stuff ups :banghead: They say it will be spent on infrustructure, that would be great, if it were benefitting our own state. This is what the royalties are for, least they go to state government!
It was also the first time they have ever made such an announcement without consulting the industry first, which is why they then refused to even try to come to an agreement with them. Then they go and do it again on another issue... how many mistakes does it take to learn a lesson, my 3yo has more common sense than that :D

[Looshkin]

I think they're pretty much one in the same, but Labor is *slightly* the lesser of two evils. I'll vote Greens anyway.

If Tony Abbott is made PM I honestly want to move to another country. I'm not kidding. I'm still trying to convince DP.


Me and my dp were talking about this the other day actually originally more so joking but the conversation did start to get more serious. I think I might loose all faith in Australia if Australia chooses a tony (ar$3hat) abbott led liberal government. We already have dual citizenship so maybe a stint somewhere in the EU with a bit more progressive government, and more humane ideals in regards to social benefits like healthcare not being made from a position of truly blind privilege etc would be a good thing...

Anyway, I'm voting greens and will preference labour.

[SuperGranny]

hi, im going to wait until someone says something I can believe, then I'll decide who to vote for. Might be waiting a darn long time. I'm glad to now know Julia was born in Wales, maybe that is why she cant say 'Australia' properly, I was thinking it must be because she was from SA. not having a dig at anyone from SA, but I do think there is a different accent in that State. I hope the next five weeks go past quickly. Marie.

[naiwen]

Just out of interest, if you voted 1 Greens and 2 Liberal would that actually help the Greens?

[lambjam]

Just out of interest, if you voted 1 Greens and 2 Liberal would that actually help the Greens?

Yes, if enough people in your electorate voted the same way you would have a Green MP.

(And if enough people in enough electorates voted the same way you would have s Green PM ;))

[Savingfishfromdrowning]

Undecided. No-one worth voting for IMO.

[studyingECS]

I have until 8pm to enrol to vote..and I have NO IDEA what voting entails when the time comes.:cool:

[Rainbow Mum]

For those saying Tony Abbott hasn't even been PM yet so how would we know what he stands for.

In 2006 Tony Abbott in his position as Health minister for the then Liberal Government was instrumental in blocking the drug RU486 from being approved for use in this country, based solely on his religious and anti abortion convictions.
His stance on womens rights and the right to safe legal abortions tells us he classes women as second class citizens, along with his expression that he believes a womans virginity is a gift for her husband. Ahhhh so a man in his eyes deserves to marry a virgin it harks back to the good ol'1950's when women were chattels of their men.

Oh yeah and it really showed a "lovely" character in the way he treated Bernie Banson, the guy dying from asbestos related cancer.

[Fuchsia!]

I would vote Gillard. I don't want a prime minister basing his decisions on a religion i don't believe in. He is constantly trying to shove his religious ideals down our throats. No way!

[WhiteMagicMother]

I am right into my politics and didn't even know he was religious, so it can't be hugely publicised. Rudd on the other hand everyone knew about, although I don't believe he brought his religion into politics, which is something that concerned me was going to happen.
Despite being in my 20s I believe in the old fashioned ways.... but then again I love my man bringing home the bacon while I get to cook, clean and spend time with my adorable children.

[Rainbow Mum]

I am right into my politics and didn't even know he was religious, so it can't be hugely publicised. Rudd on the other hand everyone knew about, although I don't believe he brought his religion into politics, which is something that concerned me was going to happen.
Despite being in my 20s I believe in the old fashioned ways.... but then again I love my man bringing home the bacon while I get to cook, clean and spend time with my adorable children.


His main mentor is an 80 year old catholic jesuit priest. reaf my previous post his anti abortionj stance is widely known because of his strict catholocism.

There is alot to be said about what you call the old fashioned ways but what about those women who don't have a choice in having a man bring home the bacon as you put it. And don't women and everybody else for that matter deserve a choice in how they live and what decisions they make. Under Tony Abbott if he had his way abortion for example would be banned.

Don't think I'm catholic bashing either, I was raised a catholic but there are a few areas the church can improve on !

Tony Abbott has directly bought religion into politics see my previous post about his time as health minister.

[LFurness]

I am right into my politics and didn't even know he was religious, so it can't be hugely publicised. Rudd on the other hand everyone knew about, although I don't believe he brought his religion into politics, which is something that concerned me was going to happen.
Despite being in my 20s I believe in the old fashioned ways.... but then again I love my man bringing home the bacon while I get to cook, clean and spend time with my adorable children.
Same here i'm very old fashioned and i don't believe there is anything wrong with that.

[Fuchsia!]

Eek, how can you not notice it? As another poster above said about Abbott with the RU486 abortion drug.

Not the mention him saying he wants all public kids to read the bible.

Also he has openly commented that he doesn't believe in gay marriages and should be between man and woman.

He also proposed at fault divorce agreement which would require spouses to prove offences like adultery, habitual drunkenness, cruelty, dessertion or a 5 year separation before a divorce would be granted. He said this would be a way of "providing additional recognition to what might be thought of as traditional marriage"

[Rainbow Mum]

Same here i'm very old fashioned and i don't believe there is anything wrong with that.

No there is nothing wrong with being old fashioned absolutely nothing wrong with that !

BUT

There is definately something wrong with a politician who believes everybody in this country should be like him.

There is something wrong with a politician who believes everybody in this country should have basic human rights and fundamental choices taken away from them because he doesn't believe in them.

There is something wrong with a politician who will take a way womens protection by taking away her choices.

Sure be old fashioned if that suits you and I'm using your term not mine.

But allow those of us who want to retain the right to choose the way we live the ability to do so !

[lambjam]

I am right into my politics and didn't even know he was religious, so it can't be hugely publicised. Rudd on the other hand everyone knew about, although I don't believe he brought his religion into politics, which is something that concerned me was going to happen.

It is very well publicised and the reason he's known as "The Mad Monk" :laughing:.

Personally I don't like Abbott, however I do think people make too many sweeping statements about his Catholicism without actually backing them up. People say he brings his religion into politics, and while it's true he wears it on his sleeve I think you'd be hard pushed to find examples of actual policy change that would relate. The one exception to this was his treatment of RU486 in his time as health minister. I felt this was an abuse of the position :(.

I think we need to remember that he is merely the leader of a party and will only remain so for as long as he represents that party; he can't institute too many changes on his lonesome. For example, while Abbott may be anti-abortion, the Liberals under his leadership would never dare do anything to change the existing legislation. It's his personal view, not his political one.

[Benji]

For those of you who are happy to be old-fashioned, that's fine. But not everybody else is happy to live like that. I believe far more in our freedom to live the way we see fit rather than bring religion back into politics.

How could anyone not know he's religious? :laughing: He's an extremist!!

[lambjam]

Ok, to clarify again, I don't like Abbott at all! But I also can't stand to see myths being perpetuated...


Also he has openly commented that he doesn't believe in gay marriages and should be between man and woman.

I believe whole-heartedly that gay marriage should be introduced, no question. However the fact is that currently marriage IS between a man and a woman, all he's doing is agreeing with existing legislation. Further, Rudd did nothing to address this and I don't think Gillard will be either. No-one wants to touch it, and to his credit Abbott is the only one prepared to give his personal opinion on it.



There is something wrong with a politician who believes everybody in this country should have basic human rights and fundamental choices taken away from them because he doesn't believe in them.

There is something wrong with a politician who will take a way womens protection by taking away her choices.


Where has he indicated he will take away choices? If you're referring to RU486, it wasn't yet an option so not passing it wasn't removing an existing choice.

I hate that I sound like I take his side because I really don't, but I like a good factual debate! :laughing:

[WhiteMagicMother]

I think we need to remember that he is merely the leader of a party and will only remain so for as long as he represents that party; he can't institute too many changes on his lonesome. For example, while Abbott may be anti-abortion, the Liberals under his leadership would never dare do anything to change the existing legislation. It's his personal view, not his political one.

:thumbsup:

[Jakois]

For those of you who are happy to be old-fashioned, that's fine. But not everybody else is happy to live like that. I believe far more in our freedom to live the way we see fit rather than bring religion back into politics.

How could anyone not know he's religious? :laughing: He's an extremist!!

Agreed.

Good for those who wish to be "Old Fashioned", but I wish to have the freedom to live my life in a different way:).

I don't know how anyone could have missed out on Abott's extremist views:confused::confused::confused:.

[Rainbow Mum]

Where has he indicated he will take away choices? If you're referring to RU486, it wasn't yet an option so not passing it wasn't removing an existing choice.

I hate that I sound like I take his side because I really don't, but I like a good factual debate! :laughing:

As for RU486 not passing a new drug certainly is taking away peoples choice. There is no valid medical reason to not pass that drug !

He doesn't believe gay people should have the right to marry, that is taking away their choices by refusing to change legislation. Ok you say the other parties won't touch it at least the labour party are willing to look at registered relationships. The liberal party believes gays should go back in the closet.

Oh yeah and then there is his opinion which he stated nationally that women should save their virginity as a precious gift for their husbands.......... the choice he is taking away there is a womans right to do with her virginity what she pleases. It is none of his business what any woman does with her virginity and thtr includes his daughters.

Then there's the thing about him wanting to change divorce laws, making it harder for people to divorce. Ask any woman in a DV situation how hard it already is to get a divorce, without Tony telling her he will make it harder ....that is taking away peoples choices, in some cases to save theirs and their childrens lives. If divorce becomes too hard the woman who is downtrodden from years of domestic violence, instead of feeling she has a choice to divorce with relative ease, will believe her only choice is to stay and be bashed to death or to enter a murder suicide situation ......hows about those for choices.

[lambjam]

He doesn't believe gay people should have the right to marry, that is taking away their choices by refusing to change legislation. Ok you say the other parties won't touch it at least the labour party are willing to look at registered relationships. The liberal party believes gays should go back in the closet.

Oh yeah and then there is his opinion which he stated nationally that women should save their virginity as a precious gift for their husbands.......... the choice he is taking away there is a womans right to do with her virginity what she pleases. It is none of his business what any woman does with her virginity and thtr includes his daughters.

Again, I hate that I'm put into a position of defending the man! But that is NOT taking away choice, it is leaving the current level of choice as it is, as it has always been.

And his opinion on virginity... yes, this is one of the things that makes me dislike Abbott on a personal level, but he's not taking away anyone's choice regarding their virginity, he's expressing an opinion.

All politicians have personal views and political views, and the two don't necessarily coincide. What's unfortunate about Tony Abbott is that we know too much about his personal views; while he's been more than forthcoming with this information the media is also to blame, they've always loved asking and he's loved telling.

I'd love to hear from anyone who can relate his Catholicism to actual policy change. Short of that, I have to restrict myself to disliking him on a personal level.

[WhiteMagicMother]

To me it sounds like the reason no one likes him is because he has voiced his personal opinions, and most don't agree with them (personally I agree with all of them posted on here so far that I've read... doesn't mean i've lived by them but I agree with the merit to them).

And then on the other hand we complain because none of them are honest... well I wonder why :laughing::laughing::laughing:
Maybe if they all opened their mouths and let out their personal opinion the whole country would end up refusing to vote :D think back to the guy back in the UK whos microphone was left on... I have a feeling most say things like this behind closed doors to those they can trust :rolleyes:

[~Candy~]

Hmmm, I'm not the ONLY person who seems to think our possible "future" Prime Minister should be more appropriate in public....

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/election2010/7931753/budgie-smugglers-make-appearance

[petalwings]

As for the abortion pill, I believe that it was defeated by 45 to 6, with ONLY the greens voting for it. Many senators didn't turn up to vote that day. So as mentioned above, Abbott seems quite honest about his personal views, much to his own demise.

[Rainbow Mum]

Abbott seems quite honest about his personal views, much to his own demise.


Of course and he has shown alot about his personality with his so called "honesty".

He may not have influenced any other policy but the abortion drug policy YET.

And with views like his he shouldn't be given the opportunity to enforce ghis beliefs and his values on the people of Australia.

We are entitled to our own beliefs and values within the law. We are entitled to be given laws and legislation that allowsus a free choice on basic human rights.

And if you believe a man with such conservative, backward, homophobic, racist ideals will foster that then bully for you.

I will agree to disagree and I will not believe for one minute that a man with his dogmatic, arrogant stance on these issues, would not take advantage of the Prime Ministerial postion to acheive the type of dark ages policy which he would embrace.

[Jakois]

As for the abortion pill, I believe that it was defeated by 45 to 6, with ONLY the greens voting for it. Many senators didn't turn up to vote that day. So as mentioned above, Abbott seems quite honest about his personal views, much to his own demise.

What he is honest about being is a try hard Alpha male, who thinks that he is Gods gift to this earth.

He is a tool. The thought of him being in any more power than he currently is actually frightens me.

I despise everything that he stands for.

[Blairysmum]

Umm 9 month old babies bathing with their fathers are a tad bit different to "this" situation of a possible PUBLIC FIGURE for our country.

Don't forget the things he's said about his daughters viginity IN PUBLIC...:rolleyes:

When you are implying what you are I think it's all the same:)

Who cares really about this mans personal life because really he is just a face he doesn't make the decisions he is just a puppet!

[KatiesMum]

As for RU486 not passing a new drug certainly is taking away peoples choice. There is no valid medical reason to not pass that drug !

He doesn't believe gay people should have the right to marry, that is taking away their choices by refusing to change legislation. Ok you say the other parties won't touch it at least the labour party are willing to look at registered relationships. The liberal party believes gays should go back in the closet.

Oh yeah and then there is his opinion which he stated nationally that women should save their virginity as a precious gift for their husbands.......... the choice he is taking away there is a womans right to do with her virginity what she pleases. It is none of his business what any woman does with her virginity and thtr includes his daughters.

Then there's the thing about him wanting to change divorce laws, making it harder for people to divorce. Ask any woman in a DV situation how hard it already is to get a divorce, without Tony telling her he will make it harder ....that is taking away peoples choices, in some cases to save theirs and their childrens lives. If divorce becomes too hard the woman who is downtrodden from years of domestic violence, instead of feeling she has a choice to divorce with relative ease, will believe her only choice is to stay and be bashed to death or to enter a murder suicide situation ......hows about those for choices.


The RU 486 thing I was totally disgusted by. It is just so wrong him putting his own personal opinion above the wants and needs of the Australia people. They wanted it, the health department and various processes approved and he mis-used his position as Health Minister to veto it. :thumbsdown:

However, in fairness the other things were taken out of context.
- the girls saving themselves for marraige thing ... . He was ask for his personal feelings on sex in relation to HIS DAUGHTERS. If in a public position I was ask about my daughter I would probably have said the same.

- same for his ideas on divorce. He was ask about his own personal opinion. There was never any suggestion that it would be made policy or even discussed ... was ask how HE felt about divorce. (I dont like it .. but he is allowed a personal opinion I suppose).

I dont like the precedent he set with RU486 ... showed he is ok with imposing his values on everyone, and he may do so again as PM which scares me.

[lambjam]

The RU 486 thing I was totally disgusted by. It is just so wrong him putting his own personal opinion above the wants and needs of the Australia people. They wanted it, the health department and various processes approved and he mis-used his position as Health Minister to veto it. :thumbsdown:

However, in fairness the other things were taken out of context.
- the girls saving themselves for marraige thing ... . He was ask for his personal feelings on sex in relation to HIS DAUGHTERS. If in a public position I was ask about my daughter I would probably have said the same.

- same for his ideas on divorce. He was ask about his own personal opinion. There was never any suggestion that it would be made policy or even discussed ... was ask how HE felt about divorce. (I dont like it .. but he is allowed a personal opinion I suppose).

I dont like the precedent he set with RU486 ... showed he is ok with imposing his values on everyone, and he may do so again as PM which scares me.

:iagree: on all counts, well said.

[LFurness]

Hmmm, I'm not the ONLY person who seems to think our possible "future" Prime Minister should be more appropriate in public....

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/election2010/7931753/budgie-smugglers-make-appearance
:confused::confused::confused:
Our possible "future" Prime Minister was wearing swimmers while swimming. Come on ppl seriously some growing up needs to be done. What do iron men were in their comps??? And lets face it he is a fit man so it wasn't really bad to look at.

[LFurness]

Hmmm, I'm not the ONLY person who seems to think our possible "future" Prime Minister should be more appropriate in public....

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/election2010/7931753/budgie-smugglers-make-appearance
The funny thing about that is it was a ALP staff member that did that. Great campaign they have going, sending ppl in to haggle the competition.
LOL

[KatiesMum]

The funny thing about that is it was a ALP staff member that did that. Great campaign they have going, sending ppl in to haggle the competition.
LOL

:yes: the guy dressed in budgie smugglers harrassing TA works for the ALP. Not just a campaign volunteer either - he is actually paid by taxpayers.

He is a staff member of the Victorian Labor MP's.


:thumbsdown: :thumbsdown: :thumbsdown: :thumbsdown: :thumbsdown:

[bumMum]

:confused::confused::confused:
Our possible "future" Prime Minister was wearing swimmers while swimming. Come on ppl seriously some growing up needs to be done. What do iron men were in their comps??? And lets face it he is a fit man so it wasn't really bad to look at.

:footinmouth: it was hoooorible to look at. it was like looking at my sleazy uncle in bathers or something lol.

although I don't think it was necessarily inappropriate, I don't think it was appealing! hahahah

I haven't read the ninety something posts on this but as a good friend to many many gay guys and gals I really can never support the liberal party. it sickens me.
I do not want my son to grow up with gay family and friends and be taught the message that they are different or less than straight people.

[Leisa21]

I'll be voting for Liberal in the hope that I can no longer have an opinion and just talk about kittens and rainbows all day.

[bronny-jane]

labour.... without a doubt.. i like julia
cant stand tony, so freaking shifty looking..

[shockinamillion]

Labour here. I like the views they have for this my family are looking for. I am seriously scared of workchoices, or whatever it will be named if the libs get back in, and I am looking forward to the National Broadband Network. That is the industry DF is studying to work in. The Libs have promised to scrap it.

[bronny-jane]

i have no issue with refugees no matter how they come, i feel for them being so desperate..

however how does tony about plan to stop it really...
switch his speedos for david hasselhoffs red shorts, stand on the beach with the baywatch theme (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuYrRebvFHc) playing:D

[nothanksbye]

Can i ask what will Julia do for Australian families??? As she knows all about what Australian families need since she has no family and isn't born in Australia?

wow...that scares me.
My sister wasnt born here and has no kids. She works for docs..I wonder if you think this makes her unqualified?



I think it means she will possibly be bias on allowing people from her part of the world in to our country. I don't think it's a huge issue though, i'm already the only aussie in my street :laughing:
Homes with children are usually the ones greatest affected by changes in the economy.

so a woman that was unable to have children, should not set her sights on leading a country?


Do you really think thats how it works? like shes going to open the back door and let heaps of welsh in?
hahahhhaaha.




I will vote greens and labor.
Tony Abott makes my skin crawl. Sure he is only giving his opinion..but I dont like any of his opinions.

If I was asked about my daughters virginity in public, I would have said mind you own freaking business you sicko. but maybe thats just me.

[lambjam]

i have no issue with refugees no matter how they come, i feel for them being so desperate..

however how does tony about plan to stop it really...
switch his speedos for david hasselhoffs red shorts, stand on the beach with the baywatch theme (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuYrRebvFHc) playing:D

:laughing::laughing: I think there's a position vacant for you down at ALP headquarters, now there's some election advertising the public would enjoy!

[WhiteMagicMother]

so a woman that was unable to have children, should not set her sights on leading a country?


Do you really think thats how it works? like shes going to open the back door and let heaps of welsh in?
hahahhhaaha.

As a woman who faced never having children, yes I do believe you are out of touch from the other side of the fence. Then again, I also haven't worked in the finance sector... I realise you can't be qualified for everything at once. Personally the finances worry me more than the family issues, my children will be forever paying for it as my parents did for the last time they were in government.

I think it will make certain subjects difficult for her. Doesn't mean it will affect it, but it's a possibility. If you lived in my suburb then you would have a better understanding.



If I was asked about my daughters virginity in public, I would have said mind you own freaking business you sicko. but maybe thats just me.

This is why you aren't a politician. If you cannot express your views on an issue then how would politics go anywhere but around in circles?
I'd have no problem saying ideally they'll be very good at it before they marry their husband :laughing: I'll just be thankful if they have a hard working man at their side.

[Shh]

You can't be experienced in everything. And policy isn't formed in a vacuum. Politicians have expert advisors and carry out research on a variety of issues.

Nobody would comment on a male prime minister who doesn't have children. Somehow a barren (and I hate that word) woman is intrinsically less valuable than someone who has reproduced? It makes no sense to me. I'm sure for many it was the most amazing, fulfilling thing they've ever done. Cool. It isn't compulsory. Not having children doesn't make you any less of a person or less able to understand people in a whole range of family situations, be they single, de facto, flat-mates, seniors separated in nursing homes, whatever.

And no, I don't think answering questions about the sexuality of your children is EVER appropriate. It has nothing to do with policy or politics. It is just invasive and media looking for a headline.

[WhiteMagicMother]

You can't be experienced in everything. And policy isn't formed in a vacuum. Politicians have expert advisors and carry out research on a variety of issues.

This is what worries me. The super tax went against advisors. It was the first time in history they had announced an issue to mining without having discussed it with them first, hence their refusal to discussion with government. Not only did they do it once, but then they went and did it again announcing a policy that had not been properly discussed and planned.

[nothanksbye]

You can't be experienced in everything. And policy isn't formed in a vacuum. Politicians have expert advisors and carry out research on a variety of issues.

Nobody would comment on a male prime minister who doesn't have children. Somehow a barren (and I hate that word) woman is intrinsically less valuable than someone who has reproduced? It makes no sense to me. I'm sure for many it was the most amazing, fulfilling thing they've ever done. Cool. It isn't compulsory. Not having children doesn't make you any less of a person or less able to understand people in a whole range of family situations, be they single, de facto, flat-mates, seniors separated in nursing homes, whatever.

And no, I don't think answering questions about the sexuality of your children is EVER appropriate. It has nothing to do with policy or politics. It is just invasive and media looking for a headline.


ohh wow you said everything I would have liked too.!
:iagree::iagree::iagree:

[lambjam]

This is what worries me. The super tax went against advisors. It was the first time in history they had announced an issue to mining without having discussed it with them first, hence their refusal to discussion with government. Not only did they do it once, but then they went and did it again announcing a policy that had not been properly discussed and planned.

I think the advisors Shh was referring to are the minister's personal staff. The public would never know whether decisions were made against an advisor's recommendations, it's all at the minister's discretion. (My DH was a senior advisor for several years.)

[Ana Gram]

If I was asked about my daughters virginity in public, I would have said mind you own freaking business you sicko. but maybe thats just me.

If my father commented on my sexuality or sex life to the nation, I would have his head on a pike. Actually no, I wouldn't have to because my mother would have done it before I could. Talking about your child's sex life or virginity is COMPLETELY inappropriate. Would you want your father doing it?

[Ana Gram]

I think the advisors Shh was referring to are the minister's personal staff. The public would never know whether decisions were made against an advisor's recommendations, it's all at the minister's discretion. (My DH was a senior advisor for several years.)

:yes: Unless, of course, those in the public service discuss it amongst themselves. Which they do. I've had the benefit of insider knowledge on a number of things. Can really change your perception of things.

[Shh]

Yes, I was referring to advice generally from the ministerial staff (who are different to the public servants), as well as Departmental advice and external consultants.

Regarding the mining tax, the government doesn't need to get the consent of the industry to change the taxation situation. In many cases there will be some consultation where there is a proposed change, but it is certainly not required.

I used to do ministerial liaison and pride myself on my ability to shut up when people (even within the division of a department) ask questions they shouldn't :P

[Father]

What he is honest about being is a try hard Alpha male, who thinks that he is Gods gift to this earth.

He is a tool. The thought of him being in any more power than he currently is actually frightens me.

I despise everything that he stands for.

Do you despise his very generous plan for paid parental leave?

The amount of anti-abbott comments on this thread are quite disappointing. Over the last couple of weeks during the campaign, he has looked very PM like. I have not heard him say any comments that you are all so scared of him over.

I personally, will be voting for the Coalition. Julia Gillard has just made the Labor party look even more incompetent than they did whilst Rudd was still in power. Her dealings with East Timor (or lack thereof) and her plan for a citizen talkfest on climate change for 12 months is absolutely ridiculous.

Also, the comment "why should we put the pension up, old people don't vote Labor" is absolutely appalling.

She also didn't agree with the idea of paid parental leave. I guess that's because she never wanted kids herself. To then say that she was only 'asking the hard questions' just shows that she was indeed incompetent in her delivery of the school halls debacle, as she defiantly didn't scrutinise that plan very well at all.

[Pinkzy]

I chose "other/will not vote".

[kuddles]

Do you despise his very generous plan for paid parental leave?

The amount of anti-abbott comments on this thread are quite disappointing. Over the last couple of weeks during the campaign, he has looked very PM like. I have not heard him say any comments that you are all so scared of him over.

I personally, will be voting for the Coalition. Julia Gillard has just made the Labor party look even more incompetent than they did whilst Rudd was still in power. Her dealings with East Timor (or lack thereof) and her plan for a citizen talkfest on climate change for 12 months is absolutely ridiculous.

Also, the comment "why should we put the pension up, old people don't vote Labor" is absolutely appalling.

She also didn't agree with the idea of paid parental leave. I guess that's because she never wanted kids herself. To then say that she was only 'asking the hard questions' just shows that she was indeed incompetent in her delivery of the school halls debacle, as she defiantly didn't scrutinise that plan very well at all.

Father you sum my thoughts up completely and honestly... Thank you. You have saved me the effort.

I can honestly say that I will vote Liberal...
I do not believe labor is heading in the right direction. I can't look past their short comings. I can't forgive their big policies that have bit the dust and wasted valuable tax money. I do not trust them with our country. I don't trust that they won't crumble. I do not believe they are being truthful with what they say they will do.

I have read some of this thread but not all of it. I find it interesting that some supported the change of prime minister because we didn't in fact vote in a figure head but their party, now those same people say they won't vote for Abbott because he rubs them the wrong way...
interesting really...

[WhiteMagicMother]

I wish there was a 'like' button :D

[Happy2be3]

I voted Labour... not into Mr Abbott one little teeny tiny incy wincy bit!:shame:

[Benji]

Do you despise his very generous plan for paid parental leave?

The amount of anti-abbott comments on this thread are quite disappointing. Over the last couple of weeks during the campaign, he has looked very PM like. I have not heard him say any comments that you are all so scared of him over.

I personally, will be voting for the Coalition. Julia Gillard has just made the Labor party look even more incompetent than they did whilst Rudd was still in power. Her dealings with East Timor (or lack thereof) and her plan for a citizen talkfest on climate change for 12 months is absolutely ridiculous.

Also, the comment "why should we put the pension up, old people don't vote Labor" is absolutely appalling.

She also didn't agree with the idea of paid parental leave. I guess that's because she never wanted kids herself. To then say that she was only 'asking the hard questions' just shows that she was indeed incompetent in her delivery of the school halls debacle, as she defiantly didn't scrutinise that plan very well at all.


Not much point in us having paid parental leave if we have something like WorkChoices back :thumbsdown:

[Lil M]

I'm glad I'm not a citizen here yet, as I could't bring myself to vote for any of them! Think I'd rather pay the fine!

[Pregnor]

I'm going to vote green first pref and then make the rest an invalid vote.

I dont care for either party at the moment!

[Jakois]

Do you despise his very generous plan for paid parental leave?


Oh Please. Is that why his party was so against Paid Parental leave for such a long time:rolleyes:. Again, I think he is a spineless tool:).


Not much point in us having paid parental leave if we have something like WorkChoices back :thumbsdown:

Agreed. Tony Abbott does love to take away the rights of the everyday Australian:barf:.

[Kittylou]

I'm going to vote green first pref and then make the rest an invalid vote.

I dont care for either party at the moment!

Unfortunately, if you do that your entire vote will be invalid and not counted at all so it doesn't matter who you put as your first preference.

[~Candy~]

Unfortunately, if you do that your entire vote will be invalid and not counted at all so it doesn't matter who you put as your first preference.

Can you please explain why?

As I always put the Greens as my 1st preference :yes:

[Kittylou]

Can you please explain why?

As I always put the Greens as my 1st preference :yes:

Voting for the House of Reps is compulsory (or full) preferential voting. This means that you must number each candidate on the ballot in order of preference. If you don't place a number beside every candidate then your vote is considered informal and not counted.

There's no problem with putting the Greens as your first preference, I'll be doing that myself. It's just that you have to also allocate all of your other preferences as well.

[sunnymummy]

I work for the AEC so I am not allowed to tell you who I vote for . :p

What I can tell you is this:

I think some Hubbers are confused about different voting for the Senate and for the House of Representatives.

In the Senate there are two ways to vote, If you vote 'above the line', you put #1 in one box only. By doing this you are agreeing for that party to direct your preferences according to their group voting tickets. These will be available prior to the election.
If you are happy with that then go for it. If not, you should vote 'below the line' where you fill in ALL the boxes in order of your choice.
The the prefences will be directed as you have indicated.

In the House of Representatives, there is only one way to vote. You must fill in all the boxes in order of your preference.(If you only put a #1, you vote is informal and will not be counted at all.) You can direct the preferences any way you like. How-to-vote cards are suggestions only and you are not obliged to follow them.

In Australia we have the secret ballot so you vote for whover you choose.

It is your democratic right, use it, don't waste it.

More info here (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?t=340172)

[delirium]

I'm still deciding between labor and greens but I will probably vote labor. OMG if Abbott gets in, I'm so scared for women and low and middle income earners. My skin crawls thinking of him as PM :barf:

[A Party of Five]

Greens :yes:

[waterlily]

I voted greens :)