[LMB] OT: all-purpose open letter

[Michael R N Dolbear]

> From: Raye Johnsen <raye_j at yahoo.com>
> Date: 04 November 2007 23:57

> Here in Australia, it is illegal NOT to vote.  If
> [...] , you either vote,
> have a legally-acceptable reason not to, or pay a
> heavy fine.

(As others have noted you in fact only have to turn up and can then vote
'blank')

And not a *heavy* fine IMHO.

http://www.aec.gov.au/Elections/australian_electoral_system/electoral_proced
ures/Electoral_Offences.htm

If an elector who has failed to vote refuses to pay the $20 penalty, then
the matter may be referred to a Magistrates Court, where a fine of $50 plus
costs ...

$AUS20 is about $US18.00.

Little Egret