A call out for secular voters to enroll
// July 15th, 2010 // Media Release
MEDIA RELEASE
The Freethought University Alliance, a coalition of over twenty University groups around Australia, is calling on youth atheists, skeptics and humanists to enroll to vote before it is too late.
Under the current rules, the electoral roll could close at 8pm on the same day that an election is called. This means that there may only be a couple of hours for unregistered voters to enroll once an election is called.
The AEC reports that 70 per cent of voters missing from the roll are aged 18-39. Further, a recent survey revealed that more than half of generation Y identify as atheist, agnostic or non-religious.
“There are a number of issues that the citizens of Australia who are motivated by reason will be focused on in this up-coming election” said Jason Ball, President of the Alliance.
“A secular education system, which caters for all students equally regardless of a religious belief, should be central to any education policy in our multicultural, multi-faith society” said Ball. “Reforming the National School Chaplaincy Program, and addressing the exclusion caused by scripture taught in public schools, will be paramount for secular voters”
The Alliance is also calling on all political parties to clearly outline their positions on other issues ranging from prayers in parliament, the tax-exempt status of religious organisations regarding their public benefit, gay marriage and reform for abortion and euthanasia laws.
“For too long, the Australian Christian Lobby has held a disproportionate influence on our major political parties” said Ball. “The time has come for the majority of Australians who believe in secularism, inclusiveness and tolerance to take a stand and make their vote count.”
Click here to enroll with the AEC.
Where did you get this statistic that 74% of generation Y identify as athiest, agnostic or non-religious? Looking at the ABS data, in the quick stats, and having a look at religion by age for the entire country, it is apparent that in the 25-34 year old category only 24.0% have no religion and that is the category with the highest percentage. Even including the dubious categories (such as those who have not put down any religious affiliation) the difference is not accounted for.
UPDATE:
The election has been called for August 21. You have until 8pm on Monday July 19 to enroll or update your details!