Under One Flag, the 1980 Northern Territory Election

Abstract

In 1980, the Northern Territory conducted its first election as a self-governing state. Under One Flag tells the story of that milestone. It describes the newly-founded political partie, their structure, how they chose their candidates, deals in details with every electorate, analyses the poll results and discusses the important issues – isolation from the rest of Australia, resource development, race relations and Aboriginal land rights. Under One Flag is also an account of the first election in Australian history in which the role of Aborigines was crucial. It describes two major innovations - mobile polling and electoral education of Aborigines. It assesses the first attempts ever to ensure full and fair voting for Aborigines. The book is based on the efforts of a study team which worked in the field throughout the campaign, recording and assessing each aspect of the election. Show more