Among the world’s liberal democracies, Australia and New Zealand are notable for retaining three-year parliamentary terms. This term length is now uncommon, as the majority of countries with active legislatures have four-or five-year terms. It’s important to note that while other countries, such as El Salvador, Mexico, Nauru, and the Philippines, also have threeyear terms for certain legislative bodies, they may not all be classified strictly as liberal democracies.
In Australia, the federal House of Representatives operates on a maximum three-year term. However, elections can be called earlier if the Prime Minister requests and the Governor General
approves.
New Zealand also maintains a three-year term for its Parliament. Discussions and debate about extending this term have occurred periodically over the years. However, the Government has recently announced it will introduce legislation allowing extended parliamentary terms of four years. The legislation, part of the ACT-National Party coalition agreement, will be subject to the same limitations as ACT’s Treaty Principles Bill. That means National has agreed only to take the legislation to Select Committee, with no commitment to pass it. Also if it does pass, it will be subject to a referendum before it comes law.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
There has been so much debate in recent times about the effectiveness of a three-year term. Many people argue that a Government doesn’t really have time to introduce its policies in such a timeframe. Others contend that the time limitation prevents bad policy from being implemented.
With things in such turmoil internationally and with strong debate in New Zealand on several political and constitutional matters, we believe it’s important to think about these bigger issues and we encourage you to participate in the upcoming review process.
