This week, stories of democracy, dreams, and things happening in and out of the ballot box.
Elections Elsewhere by Phoebe Adler-Ryan:
Have you ever wondered how elections operate in other corners of the world? In our first story, ATB takes you on an ‘election tour’ of different countries as our volunteers —from China, Vietnam, and some with connections to the US. Featuring Ray Vo, Patrick McKenzie, Linsey Vassalo and Sue, they gather together to discuss voting in their country. Can you vote in your country? What does voting mean to you?
Counting the Vote by Grace Gooda:
The next story brings you into the Australian ballot box. In this story, we step inside election day through the eyes of an AEC worker, where impartiality, integrity, and counting replace the usual political buzz. From securing ballot bins to missing out on the ‘democracy sausage’, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the quiet work that keeps Australia’s democracy ticking. Welcome to a day in the life of a ballot counter. In partnership with the Centre for Advancing Journlaism and The Yarn from Melbourne University, this sotry was produced by Grace Gooda.
Young Yarners by Micah Kickett:
Our third story explores the Young Yarners Program, a new initiative tackling voter disengagement in First Nations communities. From Parliament House workshops to local projects back home, young leaders from the program are building knowledge, breaking down barriers, and making sure Indigenous voices are heard loud and clear at the ballot box. Micah Kickett produced this story for The Wire.
Young Matters by Ruby Perryman
In this story, we hear from a young voter navigating life on Centrelink, housing insecurity, and the growing feeling that dreams like home ownership are slipping away. As the election approaches, it’s not grand promises that shape her vote – it’s the urgent need for real support in an anxious, uncertain future. In partnership with the Centre for Advancing Journalism and The Yarn from Melbourne University, this story was produced by Grace Gooda.
Hope for the future by Catarina Fraga Matos and Kwame Slusher
Confusion, curiosity, excitement, and frustration—young Australians paint a vivid palette of emotions as they face their first vote. Whether it’s dreaming of climate action, fairness, or just finally being heard, these young Australian voters have big hopes, even if the path to the ballot box is still a little messy. Hear them out.
All The Best Credits:
- Host Kwame Slusher
- Executive Producer: Phoebe Adler-Ryan
- Editorial Producer: Melanie Bakewell
- Community Coordinator: Patrick McKenzie
- Artwork Design: Lindsey Vassalo
- Mixed and Compiled by Emma Higgins
- Theme Music composed by Shining Bird