The Victorian parliament has passed a bill abolishing group voting tickets (GVTs), requiring voters to rank at least five parties in order of preference. This change poses significant challenges for prominent microparty MPs, including Georgie Purcell, as they prepare for the upcoming state election in November. Previously, GVTs allowed parties to allocate preferences, enabling some candidates to win with minimal primary votes.
Experts have criticized the GVT system for fostering backroom deals and undermining voter control. The new voting structure aims to ensure that elected representatives reflect actual voter preferences, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Victoria's upper house.