The Australian Democrats are trying to rebuild their party after a few poor years of electoral support. The Democrats have been a great party founded by a great Australian civil libertarian, Don Chipp. Over the years the best civil libertarian politicians were to be found in the Democrats. Janine Haines, Michael Macklin, Natasha Despoja and Lynne Allison were all worthy foils to the censorious and socially conservative policies that Liberal and Labor parties have tried to run through the Senate. We wish them well.

Australian Democrats begin rebuilding with more affordable membership

The Australian Democrats have initiated a new rebuilding effort aimed at recaputring the politcal centre, starting with increasing its membership base through more affordable membership fees.

"For decades, the Australian Democrats have served an important role putting the middle ground in to the political debate," said Julia Melland, who became acting National President of the Australian Democrats in early April.

"We're going to fight for reasonable, balanced policies, built on a foundation of citizens who don't feel the major parties are adequately serving their interests," she said.

The rebuilding effort has started with a complete overhaul in membership fees. New members can now join for $25, regardless of household income. Students, pensioners and other concessions may join for just $10.

"This new membership fee structure is more in line with the economic realities of Australian citizens, and speaks to our party's overall inclusiveness" Melland added. "This is also just the first step in a number of steps to rebuild the party, rearticulate what we stand for, and return the middle ground to politics in Australia".