I'll be voting early this week and I'll be voting Liberal this time. Unlike 2013, I feel fairly confident that PM Malcolm Turnbull will lead a more progressive and moderate Australian government if he wins the election.
There are still question marks over the Liberal Party, however. The crazy right wing conservative rump, the inconsistent stance over climate change and the unnecessary referendum to be held on Marriage Equality.
The Labor Party of course is true to form with its 'spendometer' rising beyond maximum.
So, it's a Liberal vote from me - but not by their how to vote card:
Macarthur Electorate:
Memo to Malcolm Turnbull: I refuse to give my second preference to a nutcase religious party!
Senate:
The question marks over the Liberal Party preferences deepen when you look at the Senate how to vote card:
1. Liberal/National.
2. Fred Nile's Christian Democrats. No!
3. Shooters, Farmers & Fishers. No!
4. Family First. No!
5. Liberal Democrats. No!
6. Motoring Enthusiast Party. No!
Placing religious interest groups ahead of all others in the Senate leaves another question mark against the Liberal Party in my mind.
I don't particularly like the concept of small parties and single issue candidates getting seats in the Senate but as I am forced to vote for at least 12 candidates or six parties, this is the probable order of my preferences:
1. Liberal Party
2. National Party.
3. Secular Party.
4. Science Party.
5. Mature Party.
6. Seniors United Party.
7. Voluntary Euthanasia Party.
8. Renewable Energy Party.
9. Labor Party.