Sat, 21st, Feb, 2026: Georgie Purcell- Senator, N Vic. Animal Justice Party, Why Minor Parties and Independents matter in our Political System!

Macca, Katherine and Fiona talk to Georgie Purcell. Georgie is a good friend to Saturday Magazine, is a Member of the Victorian Legislative Council (MLC) for the Northern Victoria Region, representing the Animal Justice Party (AJP). Elected in November 2022, she is currently the party’s sole representative in the Victorian Parliament. Why Minor Parties and Independents Matter Minor parties (like the AJP) and independents (collectively known as the “crossbench”) play a critical role in Australia’s democratic system by providing an alternative to the major party duopoly

• Balance of Power: When neither the Government nor the Opposition holds a majority—common in the Victorian Legislative Council and the Federal Senate—the crossbench decides whether legislation passes or fails.
• Specialised Representation: They give a voice to specific issues (e.g., animal welfare, environmental protection, or local community needs) that major parties may overlook to maintain broad appeal.
• Accountability and Scrutiny: Independents and minor parties can force detailed inquiries into government activity and extract amendments to bills that improve transparency and fairness.
• Diversity of Perspective: They represent the growing portion of the electorate (over 30% in recent years) that no longer feels aligned with the traditional Labor or Coalition blocks.

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