DIY Party Getting Stuff Done

Day 1,178, 13:34 • Published in Australia Australia • by Chris Carnage

I only joined the DIY Party of Australia about 20 days ago, though with all that's happened since that time it feels like months. Having read an article from the party president Derek Appollyon that piqued my interest, and subsequent discussion on IRC I joined the party on the basis that it was about major change, reform and getting things done. I'm a sucker for revolutions, and this was a different type of revolution, a commitment to fundamentally changing our system of government, making it streamlined, more effective and suited to the current game mechanics. Increasing transparency and scrutiny of those in authority, and giving the people of eAustralia more visibility and influence in how their country is run.

I was fortunate to receive enough support to be elected to congress last election, along with 7 other DIY candidates, a great result for a party of only 20 members. It seemed clear to me that the platform of reform the party had proposed had significant support among the community. So we pressed ahead with the legislative reform agenda, collaborating with other parties and citizens to realise our mandate. To date your congress has agreed to revoke 4 acts of parliament, that were either outdated or irrelevant to they way the game is played now.


Too much legislation...must....repeal....act

By far the largest reform has been the development of the eAustralian Constitution, we've worked closely with legendary citizen Xavier Griffith to draft, rewrite, promote and gain support for this landmark piece of legislation. Recognising the significance of this act and in keeping with our commitment to transparency and inclusiveness the act to implement the constitution was raised for discussion and comment by the people before being introduced to congress. Even after that, the act provoked so much debate and challenge within congress that discussion was extended to about 96 hours. The constitution will streamline governance and more closely align it with game mechanics. As a measure of it's impact no less than 7 current acts will be revoked should the constitution gain senate approval. The constitution is currently being voted on by congress. Another major reform proposal is the High Court Act, another initiative to give the community more say in it's own governance. The High Court act promises to involve even more debate than the constitution. It is open for discussion by the people right now so we can be sure to iron out as many wrinkles as possible before it is sent to congress.

Whether you're for or against the Constitution and High Court, I hope it is clear that DIY is doing exactly what they set out to, in a collaborative and inclusive way. That says more about the party than any amount of propaganda. We are a party that can get hard things done, not by bulldozing but by engaging and collaborating with the community. It's been an eye-opener to me the degree of talent, experience and savvy our membership includes, and how anyone with a sparkle in the eye is supported to turn their ideas into concrete plans and get stuff done.

I'd invite anyone who's looking for a party to come and talk to one of us on IRC, PM me or our party president Derek Appollyon or anyone else on the member list you might know and find out for yourself if it's what you're looking for.