The Independence of Electoral Management Bodies: the Australian Experience

Abstract

At a time when parliamentary committees continue to highlight concerns with New Zealand’s four-agency approach to electoral administration, it is relevant to consider Australia’s experience in electoral management. Reform advocates in New Zealand often refer to the Australian Electoral Commission as a possible model for replacing the four-agency approach. However, there is a need to ensure that any such body retains an independent position.Since the 1980s, a major shift has occurred in Australia - away from electoral ‘offices’ which were contained within government departments - to independent statutory commissions. While a single agency is the standard approach in all nine Australian jurisdictions (one federal, six states and two territories), there are many differences in their formation and operation. This article provides insight into the degrees of independence the nine commissions actually provide, with an emphasis on appointments, budgeting, and relationships between commissioners, ministers and parliaments. The paper draws on personal interviews with the nine current full-time commissioners, and ministers and members of parliament, as well as analysis of legislative reforms and the use of parliamentary oversight committees.