Abstract
Australia has been a leading proponent of direct democracy since the turn of the century because of the provision for referenda in the Australian Constitution. However, the experiment has progressed little further. Bills for citizens' initiated referenda have been introduced across the Australian parliaments. Not one has been passed, despite the concept being supported at different times by all sides of politics. This article examines why these proposals have failed. It also evaluates other means of reinvigorating popular participation. Widespread disillusionment with the political system indicates that there is a genuine need to increase community involvement in the political process.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 27-48 |
| Number of pages | 22 |
| Journal | Australian Journal of Political Science |
| Volume | 35 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2000 |