Election candidates say vandalism and attacks on the rise
State and local election hopefuls are calling out the stealing and defacing of election signs, along with a rise in racism and intimidating behaviour, with one political expert saying Australia is witnessing a decline in voter behaviour.
Candidates in Victoria's local and state elections are reporting an increase in threatening behavior and the theft of campaign signs. By-election candidates in Greater Bendigo have witnessed theft, threatening behavior, racism, and intimidating conduct. Associate Professor Aaron Martin from the University of Melbourne noted a decrease in civility in Australian politics, attributing the rise in hostility to social media algorithms promoting outgroup hostility.
Some candidates have experienced defaced signs and threats against local businesses and private properties. While there isn't a specific law against vandalizing election signage, offenders could face fines or imprisonment. Police are investigating incidents involving stolen signs and suspicious drone activity. The Victorian Greens expressed concern over the vandalism of campaign materials, emphasizing the need for a safe environment for democratic participation.
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