Referendum

I THINK Malcolm Turnbull is on to something with the postal vote concerning same-sex marriage – he’s asking the plebeians (lower-class citizens) for their opinion. Of course the process is expensive, divisive and non-binding, but it has given the people an opportunity to taste democracy.

For Australia this could be the beginning of something new. The Swiss were a bit quicker off the mark – in 1848 a federal state was formed – consisting of a national council and a senate.

In 1867 the popular initiative was introduced, and the principle of government by referendum was accepted. They practise “direct democracy” as opposed to “representative democracy”.

Any citizen can challenge any law approved by parliament, or propose a modification of the federal constitution. Referenda/ elections are paper ballots and are manually counted in most cantons (states). Federal, cantonal, and municipal issues are polled simultaneously – usually four times a year and include initiatives and referenda.

To challenge a law, citizens must collect 50,000 signatures within 100 days of publication of a new law. Then a nationwide referendum will be held and if the majority votes to reject the law it is cancelled. Since 1848 there have been more than 550 referendums.

Switzerland is a proud, independent nation that doesn’t crawl to anyone. It has a cohesive system of social security and education. The people work towards peace not war.

Perhaps such a system in all levels of government in Australia would give voice to the people on, not only gay marriage, but other issues like council amalgamation, a voice for the original people of Australia, the coal seam gas industry with all its attendant issues, dual citizenship, honesty and integrity in public office, retirement schemes/scams for politicians.

The list goes on. About 2400 years ago the Greek philosopher Plato mused, “If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government – then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools”.

I believe this statement should be considered in the light of the current state of affairs in Australia. — DENVER KANOWSKI, Kogan