Political Animals
Fiona Katauskas
10 April 2025
Australia has been a world leader in democratic innovations: the secret ballot, women’s suffrage, the peaceful foundation of a nation. Fiona Katauskas suggests it might be time to take the next step and give the vote to creatures equally affected by the decisions of our governments.
You may also be interested in...
The history of misinformation and disinformation
False information from ancient times to the present.
What is the secret ballot?
Your guide to the voting method we use in Australia.
1946: Social Services referendum
The 1946 referendum led to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme and the beginnings of universal healthcare.
1916: Conscription
Australians were asked to vote on whether men in National Service could be deployed to fight in World War One.
The dismissal: where were you?
Stories and reflections from the day of the 1975 dismissal.
1937: Aviation
A 1937 referendum asked Australians if the Commonwealth should regulate air travel.
