The United Kingdom’s electoral reform has introduced a significant change, allowing individuals aged 16 and older the right to vote in the upcoming general election. However, it should be noted that voting is not mandatory in the UK’s electoral framework.
So what exactly would it mean if we let hundreds of thousands more teenagers in Australia flexing their democratic right to vote?
Recent wars at the time were a pivotal reason for the amendment.
If 18- and 19-year-olds were asked to fight and give their lives for their country, it was proposed, why not let them vote?
Those against the bill have previously argued that 16- and 17-year-olds are not politically mature enough to vote.
Jaysen Mitzie Cubilla, a private citizen, told the inquiry in 2018 that he believed people under 18 were not yet capable of making “wise choices”.
“Most students lack a comprehensive understanding of our political system, and granting them the right to vote undermines the essence of our democracy,” he expressed to the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters.
A key issue that has halted progress in Australia is compulsory voting.
Ryan has vowed to introduce the bill now that the 48th parliament has commenced.
