[thechat] Re: war phase 2

[Paul Cowan]

Hey all,

> > In Australia, if you don't vote, you're fined. When I was 
> there, it was 
> > $50. How much is it now, Isaac?
> 
> NFI.

Fine is $A20 (about $US10) if you shut up and pay it, argue the case (and
lose) and you're looking at $A50 (about $US25). 

 From http://www.aec.gov.au/faq/voting.htm:

	What happens if I do not vote?
	
	Initially the Australian Electoral Commission will write 
	to all apparent non-voters requesting that they either 
	provide a reason for their failure to vote or pay a $20 penalty.

	If, within 21 days, the apparent non-voter fails to reply, 
	cannot provide a valid and sufficient reason or declines 
	to pay the penalty, then prosecution proceedings may be 
	instigated. If the matter is dealt with in court and the 
	person is found guilty, he or she may be fined up to 
	$50 plus court costs.


Note that while technically _voting_ is compulsory over here, in reality
only _attendance_ at the voting booth is compulsory. You can turn up, have
your name marked off the electoral roll, and then spend as long as you wish
in the booth with the ballot paper covering it in rude squiggles, departing
with the satisfaction of a job well done.

Paul