Year 12 students first time voters’ thoughts ahead of Federal Election
After missing so many milestones due to Covid lockdowns these Year 12 students are about to chalk up an important first – voting. Here’s what will win their support.
Outer East
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The environment is the number one issue for first time voters from private schools in Melbourne’s outer east and the Mornington Peninsula.
The 18 year olds are mainly looking forward to taking part in deciding who will govern Australia.
They talked to the Leader about the issues that would shape their vote.
YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR
The Ringwood coeducational school is in the marginal electorate of Deakin, held by Liberal Michael Sukkar by a margin of 4.7 per cent.
James Thomson
James was planning to research each party before voting, but listed the environment and climate change as important issues.
“I do chemistry so I learn about all the effects and stuff, and the amount of coal and fossil fuels we’re burning, it’s a lot,’ he said.
Keeley Marx
“I reckon its going to be pretty cool to have a say, finally.”
Charlize Brown
“We actually get a say in our future now, and it’s exciting, we can play a part in what happens next.”
Support for small businesses was important to Charlize, as she was really enjoying studying Business Management and was considering a career in the industry.
Jack Goldsmith
Greater investment in renewable energy and the cost of tertiary education topped Jack’s list.
“In the past (university) has been free, and at the moment its pretty expensive, so it’s probably something I’ll look at as well given I’ll be going into uni soon,” he said.
He wasn’t a fan of election ads and found the United Australia Party offering “laughable”.
Jack was predicting a hung parliament, and said he’d be taking a look at a telecast every now and then.
“I feel a party is going to struggle to get a majority this election,” he said.
“A lot of people are more interested (in politics) now after Covid, and see it a little bit more important, so they’re going to be more conscious of how they’re voting.”
Holly O’Brien
A chat with Michael Sukkar during a primary school visit to Parliament House impressed Holly.
“He happened to be there (at Parliament House) so we actually got to have a chat with him … I actually really like him and I think I would like to see him re-elected again.”
She wasn’t as keen on political advertising.
“I think there’s a lot (of ads), sometimes too many.
“It’s good they publicise their side, but it’s just a lot of ads, all the time.”
Ben Jeffery
“I’m still sort of undecided, but I know my area is pretty Liberal, so that’s probably the party I’m leaning towards.”
PADUA COLLEGE
The catholic coeducation school’s Mornington campus is in the blue ribbon seat of Flinders. Veteran Greg Hunt has held the seat for the Liberals for 21 years. He is retiring and the Liberal candidate running to replace him, Zoe McKenzie is a $1.05 chance to win the seat.
Grace Leaver, 18, Mt Eliza
I’m not too fussed about voting. I’m planning on going to an early polling booth so I don’t have to deal with Saturday crowds. None of the candidates have really impressed me. But I’ll be looking for ones who I think will protect our future. The environment and climate action is the most important issue for me.
Alannah Deutsher, 18, Moorooduc
I’m a bit excited to be voting. It’s good to be able to have my say on what I want for the country. Gender equity and the environment are the big issues for me. I’ll vote for the person who will help deliver a more sustainable future.
Ella Brick, 18, Mount Martha
Actually, I’m nervous about voting. It’s a big responsibility. The Greens appeal to me the most. I think they are the most realistic choice when it comes to climate action. I’m also worried about the homeless and want whoever gets in to do something about that quickly.
Hunter Taylor, 18, Balnarring
I’m a bit unsure about who to vote for. The environment is also really important to me so that will be a factor in my final decision. I’m looking forward to the election ads to be over! They don’t really tell you anything useful and are pretty annoying.
Dan Houben, 18, Somerville
I have mixed feelings about voting. I’m excited, but also undecided. I feel neutral about the candidates. The economy is the biggest concern for me. The person who has the best ideas about how to improve it will probably get my vote.
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