Media release
A majority of respondents to a survey believe the Palmer United Party holding the balance of power in the Senate is good for democracy.
In the latest poll results from Essential Research, the highest percentage of the 1000-plus people surveyed favoured the election of micro parties in the Senate.
Keeping in mind the fact the Palmer United Party now held the balance of power, respondents were asked if they thought the election of micro parties in the Senate was good or bad for democracy.
Thirty six per cent of those polled said it was good for democracy with 28 per cent saying it was bad, while 15 per cent believed it made no difference and 21 per cent were undecided.
The federal leader of the Palmer United Party and Member for Fairfax, Clive Palmer, said the results highlighted Australian voters’ frustration with the two-party duopoly which has dominated politics for too long.
“They have welcomed a fresh change. Palmer United Party stands for real freedom and allowing Australians the right to choose,’’ he said.
“The Australian public understands that a diversity of ideas is essential for a good democracy to flourish. Making politics a two-horse race restricts the freedom of Australians.’’