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Newcastle Greens

12 November 2007

Greens say Preferences make for Double Value Voting

As the countdown to the Federal Election draws to a close, it's crucial people remember their vote carries on at full value if their number one preference doesn't receive enough votes to get elected." said Charmian Eckersley, Greens candidate for Newcastle.

Ms Eckersley said "It is very empowering to properly understand how preferences work. It means that you can vote for your preferred party in the number one position knowing that you are sending a clear message about the policies and principles you think are better."

"The Greens have Australia's strongest climate change credentials and we continue to be the only party with the policies that can seriously tackle climate change now. A Green vote also sends an unequivocal message about the need for significant investment in education, affordable housing and health," said Ms Eckersley.

The Greens will first direct preferences in the Senate to like-minded smaller parties including the Democrats and What Women Want, and then they will be directed to Labor. In NSW, The Greens have put the Coalition last in their Senate preferences as a clear statement of intent to change the government and remove Coalition control of the Senate.

Greens Senator Kerry Nettle who is seeking re-election on November 24 said "The Greens are united in our desire to see a change of government and we are also working hard to see more Greens elected to the Senate in a bid to make the Senate a real house of review.”

"In the House of Representatives, the Greens in Newcastle are making a recommendation that voters put Labor ahead of the Coalition. Recommending preferences go to Labor ahead of the Coalition does not mean we endorse Labor polices but it does mean we are committed to getting rid of the Howard government." said Ms Eckersley.

Often, people think that putting Greens 2^nd after Labor will give Greens a vote. They may not realise a 2^nd vote to a small party behind a larger party won’t be counted.

"A double value vote for the Greens is a powerful vote. It will help see a change in government and ensure that the direction of the new government has a clear commitment to serious action on climate change and to building a fairer Australia ," Ms Eckersley said.

For more details contact:

Charmian Eckersley 0407 730410 www.charmian-eckersley.blogspot.com

Photo opportunity: Charmian Eckersley, Greens candidate for Newcastle will be talking about preferences at the Newcastle pre-polling booth at 75 Tudor Street on from 9.00 am 13 November 2007.