Why vote? 
Australia is a representative democracy. We elect representatives to make decisions on our behalf. Each of our three levels of government; Federal, State and local council has different responsibilities.
It is the right and the responsibility of everyone on the electoral roll to vote. This ensures that our elected representatives are genuinely those preferred by the majority of the electorate.
Federal Government
The Federal Government makes decisions about issues that affect all Australians. Its responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- the national economy
- defence
- foreign policy
- immigration
- social services including pensions and family support
- trade and commerce
- post-secondary education
- Medicare and health funding.
How to vote in a Federal election
State Government
The State Government makes decisions about issues that specifically affect Victorians. Its responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- hospitals and health services
- drugs and crime prevention
- education and training
- family and community development
- transport and road safety
- rural and regional service development.
How to vote in a State election
Local councils
Local councils make decisions on a range of local issues. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- maternal and child health care centres
- child care
- meals on wheels and home help
- sporting facilities and recreation reserves
- libraries and community centres
- animal registrations
- rubbish and recycling collection
- town planning and building regulations
- local roads and footpaths.