Andrews re-elected with Labor majority, page-338

I do like a good multi-member electorate system. Tasmania and the ACT both elect their lower houses on such a system and, while it can be complex, it will almost always deliver an outcome in line with the popular vote - ie often close. The number of members per electorate needs to be large enough to give smaller Parties a chance if they get 10-20% of the vote and eliminate micro-parties which can game the system.

I don't like direct election of Party Leaders or leadership positions (as in the US). That seems to deliver quite stupid results and draws big money into politics (which I also think we should avoid). I know that the US with its non-compulsory voting has different factors at work, but it isn't a great advertisement for their electoral system. The Primary system in the US does seem to have some advantages in engaging party members in the selection of candidates, but we don't have large enough party memberships in Australia for it to make much of difference (I think).

Interestingly, I do think we are seeing the Teal independents in the Federal Parliament doing a remarkable job at representing their electorates. While they do caucus on many issues, they also go their separate ways on others - which is how it should be. I think David Pocock in the Senate is a real eye-opener for people to see what a dedicated and smart local politician can do on the national stage.