#ausvotes

to bear that in mind as their own electorates may eventually be their harshest critics.

Apart from these ethical issues, the opposition may themselves wish to resist another election for fear of having a negative swing against them. Also to be borne in mind is the fact that the government being in minority does not mean that the opposition has a majority. If it were so the Opposition would be able to form a government. Further, with a minority of their own they may find it hard to prevent legislation as the government aligns with others in parliament, so it is in their best interest to strike bilateral agreements with the government in as cordial a political atmosphere as is possible. Despite their differences in ideology and policy, the opposition must represent its constituents, the practicality of which demands that attempts be made to influence government policy; to take advantage of the governments need for support and to negotiate concessions to achieve objectives that will please those that elected them to parliament. Certainly these liberties have never extended to an Opposition before. An opposition who is used to operating in parliament with an inherent minority mentality against a government with a majority may be truly challenged when confronted with this unique opportunity and power.

For the first time both large parties will have to rely on the strength of their arguments rather than the arguments borne of parliamentary majority. It may be that in minority government, the government may find it prudent to even extend concessions to the opposition in return for not disrupting the governments order for business in parliament. Courtesy, respect and a more inclusive attitude is required toward the opposition. Certainly this has rarely occurred in our parliament before, but while it was trite when opposition parties asked for bi-partisanship on matters of policy in the past e.g. stimulus packages in 2009, this is precisely the mentality that is required in minority government. Often the minority government will have legislation defeated if it cannot garner the support prior to its introduction to parliament. Far from being a confidence issue, situations like this need perseverance and compromise in a manner that achieves results. The public must understand this, for otherwise unnecessary concern over failed legislation will become frivolous.

Alliance Protocol

The Prime Minister will dictate how parliament will operate under a minority government. If however, a totalitarian approach is taken, support will be difficult to obtain, and relationships hard to develop. If instead a respectful and cordial manner is adopted to conducting negotiations, the chance of reasonable agreement being precipitated is far greater.

The minority government must be transparent from the very beginning of parliament, and clearly define their achievements and their objectives to be pursued into the future. Due to the frequency and dynamic creation and dissolution of alliances within the parliament of a minority government, a clear set of rules or practice & procedure needs to be developed and adopted by parliament in respect of alliance protocols. This will offer a structured approach to dealing with various members within the Chamber and allow an orderly and efficient disposal of business. Imperative within these rules are disclosure obligations to preserve the integrity of Cabinet.

Apart from approaching members for support within parliament, alliances made outside parliament are also crucial to a minority government. For example, a minority government may wish to gain the support of the Teachers Federation, the support of individual States, or that of the Mining Industry.