Modernised Democrats target internet

In a daring comeback bid, the Australian Democrats have launched themselves back into the political mainstream.

In a week where intra-party democracy has been a key talking point, Australian Democrats Campaign Director Dan McMillan claimed the “Australian Democrats are the only party where the membership elects the leader”.

“At this stage, this is the largest amount of expressions of interest in candidacy we’ve had in a decade,” said Mr McMillan. “We’re currently going through a candidate assessment committee process to select the best candidates for each electorate.

“The membership has more opportunity to influence party policy, structure and outcome than any other political party. This advances participatory democracy within the party and encourages it within the wider Australian community.”

The participatory element is at the heart of the Democrats’ vision for Australian political society.

“By using new platforms [like the internet], the Democrats are modernising the party and using new technologies to leapfrog other parties,” said Mr McMillan. “This provides convenience and access for both members and for the public.”

The internet has also helped combat the perception the Democrats are ‘finished’ by significantly boosting membership.

“It has enabled us to spread our message further and quicker than ever before at the height of the party,” said Mr McMillan. “It’s essentially an issue of community engagement.”

Dianne Hiles, the Greens’ candidate for Sydney, said the Democrats’ rising membership was indicative of increasing disillusionment with the major parties rather than the Democrats’ own strength.

“I don’t think they’re a force – they’ve unfortunately had their day,” she said.

Sean O’Connor, the Liberal candidate for Sydney, similarly downplayed the Democrats’ chances of reincarnation at the upcoming election. “This election was never going to just be a two-horse race [but] Sydney voters have the clearest choice in a generation’ between the two major parties,” he said.

On the Democrats’ centrist disdain for partisanship, Mr McMillan said “traditionally, we maintained balance and stability in the Senate”.

“The last election cycle was unstable … we seek to negotiate policy positions that are in the interest of all Australians and those that are not aligned to specific interest groups,” he said.

Ms Hiles criticised the Democrats’ catchcry of “keeping the bastards honest”.

“While it’s a good thing to do, it can’t compete with the importance of our environmental future,” she said.

Major Democrats policy announcements are expected over the coming weeks.