Nick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I indicate that I do support in broad terms the measures in the Electoral and Referendum Amendment (Improving Electoral Procedure) Bill 2012, but I think the bill needs to go further and that is why I will be moving a number of amendments, particularly in relation to issues of transparency. At this stage we are told by the Prime Minister that the election will not take place until Saturday, 14 September but who knows what may happen between now and then? It is not a sure thing, despite what Centrebet or Sportsbet have said about the odds that there will be an election on that day. I think it is more likely than not, but we may find this to be one of the last opportunities we have for some electoral reform. I think it is important that we seize the opportunity, particularly in relation to transparency and in respect of the disclosure of donations, because our current disclosure laws are woefully inadequate.

In respect of the proposals in this bill, I think it is worth reflecting on the simplifying and facilitating of the application of technology to postal-voting arrangements. I welcome that, but I also think it is worth reflecting on what some key stakeholders have said about the current postal-voting arrangements and how these favour incumbents and the major parties. I do not think that is such a good thing in a democracy.

In line with Senator John Madigan's amendment from the DLP, I do have some concerns about the increase in the nomination deposit. I believe it would be beneficial to phase this in, given the nearness of the next election and that is why I will be supporting Senator Madigan's amendment.

Beyond the provisions in this bill, there are serious and significant problems with the Electoral Act itself. I acknowledge the work the government has done in this area so far, but a number of reforms proposed by Senator Faulkner when he was Special Minister of State have not been followed through. I do not blame Senator Faulkner for that. It was because it was delayed in the Senate.