The reality of politics is, voting in independents will only result in those of a like mind clubbing together to form political alliances (parties) over time. I agree with having diversity in politics, where differing views can be presented and debated, hopefully leading to better outcomes. Political parties forming majority government does give a degree of stability which is not possible otherwise. Having dominant parties of a similar moderate philosophy also allows for stability within politics, Labor and Liberal are not radically different in political philosophy, the two big parties vary in emphasis more than anything else, both wanting to maintain the status quo, with marginal reform only possible over time. But politics is also a reflection of society, with a moderate stable society given to moderate stable politics.

Dear Paul,

If indeed some 80-90% of the population value stability, then stability will remain even when parliament is comprised of independent representatives of the people.

«voting in independents will only result in those of a like mind clubbing together to form political alliances (parties) over time.»

Unless the people punish their representatives for forming such lasting alliances.

There is nothing wrong with ad-hoc temporary alliances, where representatives negotiate on behalf of the people who elected them: "My people really want X and only mildly oppose Y, Your people really want Y and only mildly oppose X, so let us compromise and have both X and Y".

Hi Yuyutsu,

A politician not only has to represent those who voted for them, but also those who didn't. A good poly will naturally show leadership, as well as articulating policy for the greater good. Well that's how it's supposed to work.

Dear Paul,

«A politician not only has to represent those who voted for them, but also those who didn't.»

At present, politicians represent their party and care not for even those who voted for them, nor even listen to them.

At present also, nearly half the voters are not represented at all.

At present also, the votes of those who happen to live in a "marginal seat" are worth 1000 times more than the votes of those who do not.

Whether or not you consider democracy to be good and fair, Australia does not have democracy, never had.

Proportional representation can be a big step towards democracy.

Better still, is for people to represent themselves on the issues that matter to them most. It may not have been technically possible in previous centuries but that technology is now available.