It is a timely reminder that for all its faults, Australian democracy is a model for the world: with independently administered elections, where voters can list their true preferences without throwing away their vote, and compulsory voting that ensures that the voices of the disadvantaged and disaffected are heard.

The Australia Institute Tasmania Director Eloise Carr and I have identified three key reforms that could improve Tasmanian elections and the integrity and accountability of its government:

• Stronger political donations disclosure laws so that Tasmanians know where their politicians get the money from.
• Truth in political advertising laws to ensure parties and candidates face consequences for misleading advertising.
• Strengthening the Tasmanian Integrity Commission, the state’s underfunded anti-corruption watchdog.

The diversity of voices elected to the Tasmanian Parliament gives hope that these, and other reforms we recommended in the Democracy Agenda for the 51st Tasmanian Parliament, will be taken up.

In fact, there is only a hearing today because one of the recommended reforms has already been adopted: the creation of the Tasmanian Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters.

Most other Australian jurisdictions have these committees, which review each election for lessons learned, any problems that occurred and ways to improve the system for next time.

The committee has already heard arguments for fixed four-year terms between elections, prompt disclosure of political donations, lowering the voting age to 16 and strengthening the integrity commission.