In 2024, Labour promised that sustained economic growth would be its primary mission. However, that ambition has faltered due to a sceptical business community and a vocal minority of homeowners. A new report from the think tank Labour Together suggests that embracing the whole electorate through compulsory voting could unlock democracy and growth.
The Problem of Low Turnout
The report highlights devastatingly low turnout at elections, which tilts the political playing field against pro-growth policies. Dr David Klemperer, the report's author, notes that older voters prioritise short-term consumption spending on pensions and healthcare over growth-driving investments in education and childcare. They are less likely to reward governments for delivering economic growth or punish them for failing to do so.
An ever-narrowing electorate sets policy motivations for the country. Ensuring all eligible voices are heard equally would return incentives to deliver for all in the economy.
Compulsory Voting as a Solution
Compulsory voting is the only way to guarantee this shift in electoral turnout. The government is already creating the tools for mandatory turnout. The Representation of the People Bill, which will become law when Parliament returns, introduces Automatic Voter Registration, making compulsory voting a practical possibility.
Lessons from Australia
Australia introduced compulsory voting in 1924 and last entered a recession in the 1990s. Australian politicians cannot ignore younger voters who demand pro-growth measures like house building. The Australian Parliamentary Library reports an average turnout of 94.5% in elections since 1946.
The Australian Labor Party won reelection by targeting younger voters, who are guaranteed by law to turn out. Housing Minister Clare O'Neil MP stated a goal to build 1.2 million new homes in five years using methods like prefab construction. Unlike in the UK, the Australian Labor Party is not punished for its pro-development stance.
Contrast with the UK
In the UK, an unrepresentative electorate terrifies local councillors and MPs away from pro-development measures. The government is likely to miss its target of 1.5 million new homes. New houses built between 2024-2025 stood at just 208,600, down six per cent on the previous year and far below the 300,000 needed annually.
Meanwhile, the Australian Labor government is on course to deliver its housing promises, with 938,000 dwellings forecast to be completed by June 2029. Australia also outpaces its far-right populist rival, which has plateaued in the polls.
The UK has embraced Australian exports like Kylie Minogue and trades A$35.9 billion in goods and services. Perhaps it is time to adopt another Australian export: compulsory voting.
Charles White is the campaign manager for Campaign for Compulsory Voting.
