Change that Counts - The Wright System

One Vote One Value : 

One Vote One Value Change that counts The Reiterative Count “Wright System”

Change that counts : 

Change that counts The Wright System is a re-iterative counting system based on a modified Australian Senate Electoral system with a Inclusive Weighted Gregory Surplus Value Transfer method, single segmentation. One transaction per candidate. It is a linear reiterative counting system. On every exclusion of minor candidates the count is reset and restarted. Each vote is treated equal and in the same manner..

Change that counts : 

Change that counts Process Flow Chart On every exclusion the count is reset and all votes are redistributed to all remaining candidates. Candidates’ surpluses are also redistributed. The count continues its progressive cycle until all vacancies are filled.

Change that counts : 

Change that counts Process Flow Chart The quota for election is recalculated at every reiteration following the initial distribution. Any votes that are exhausted on the first distribution are recorded without value and the quota is adjusted by default. Exhausted votes that form part of a candidate’s surplus remain in the count with value

Change that counts : 

Change that counts Process Flow Chart It is a reiterative count process Surpluses are based on the value of the vote It reduces distortion in the value of the vote No segmentation More accurately reflects voters’ intentions KISS Principle (Simple, sweet and understandable)

Change that counts : 

Change that counts Comment: “A reiterative count recalculates the quota each time a candidate is excluded from the count and does a complete fresh recount from the start as it more accurately reflects the distribution of preferences (i.e. under the current segmented system a voter is effectively denied the choice of voting for an elected candidate if the voter's 2nd preference is only distributed after their 2nd choice has been declared elected!).  This also addresses the current problem in the NSW Upper House in particular, but also in Tasmania and the ACT where the last elected person(s) often come in with an effective quota well below those earlier elected. ”

Change that counts : 

Change that counts What change is required? No change from a voters point of view - they still mark their ballot papers in the same way. It will require legislative change to implement the new counting rules (See attached submission - Rules and procedures for a reiterative proportional single transferable vote counting system) It will require modifications to the software used by the Electoral Commission. Estimated cost 2 – 6 weeks programming @100/hr approx ($8,000 to $24,000)

One Vote One Value : 

One Vote One Value Change that counts