Democracy
- government by the people; a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them or by their elected agents under a free electoral system.
- the common people of a community as distinguished from any privileged class; the common people with respect to their political power.
In broad terms, as a citizen of this society, if you want more of the same, return the present government. If you want a different administration, or more accountability, then vote for different people. It's your right and YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Don't come back whinging. Deal with it.
In NSW, elections are typically promoted by the media as a Grand Final between two major parties, who appear to be managing NSW for the big end of town and squabbling amongst themselves.
This media process largely ignores the minor parties and Independents who can bring motivated fresh minds to problem solving.
The machinery of this State has been sabotaged by years of neglect or misdiretion. Increasingly, parts are failing.
This is not sustainable. Too much major Partying.
Not enough working for the common good.
Democracy means we must listen to all voices. Sure, it's messy, but it works better than arrogant elitistism, moving towards fascism or other forms of totalitarianism.
Remember, it's usually TWO elections.
1. The Upper House or Legislative Council
Vote for sane, rational and reasonable people who can prevent excesses from the Lower House becoming law. In fact these people are your last line of defence from stupid laws and sloppy administration.
Candidates may come from anywhere.
This election is conducted differently to the Lower House and requires EITHER a tick in a GROUP "above the line", OR marking off your ordered choice of candidates "below the line"
Be mindful that giving a vote to the same major party in both houses of Parliament may not deliver a society you want to live in.
It's YOUR decision.
2. Lower House or Legislative Assembly
This is the crew who are responsible for administration of this State. They are your local member who represent a defined geographic area in which they must reside. If it's working well, pat them on the back. If it's not, vote them out and vote in the person with judgement you trust. It's YOUR decision.
Learn about Candidates and how the voting system works here from the NSW Electoral Commission
Electoral Commission of NSW