This week, stories of democracy, dreams, and things happening in and out of the ballot box.

Elections Elsewhere by Phoebe Adler-Ryan

Have you ever wondered how elections operate in other corners around the world?

In our first story, ATB takes you on a ‘election tour’ of different countries as our volunteers - from China, Vietnam, some with connections to the US - gather to talk about what voting is like in their country.

Can you vote in your country? What does voting mean to you?

Featuring Lindsey Vassalo, Patrick McKenzie, Ray Vo and Sue.

Counting the Vote by Grace Gooda

Next story brings you into the Australian ballot box.

In this story, we step inside election day through the eyes of an AEC worker - where impartiality, integrity, and counting replace the usual political buzz. From securing ballot bins to missing out on the ‘democracy sausage’, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the quiet work that keeps Australia's democracy ticking.

Welcome to a day in the life of a ballot counter.

That story was produced by Grace Gooda in partnership with the Centre for Advancing Journalism and The Yarn from Melbourne University.

Young Yarners by Micah Kickett

Our third story explores the Young Yarners Program, a new initiative tackling voter disengagement in First Nations communities. From Parliament House workshops to local projects back home, young leaders from the program are building knowledge, breaking down barriers, and making sure Indigenous voices are heard loud and clear at the ballot box.

That story was produced by Micah Kickett for The Wire.

Young Matters by Ruby Perryman

In this story, we hear from a young voter navigating life on Centrelink, housing insecurity, and the growing feeling that dreams like home ownership are slipping away. As the election approaches, it's not grand promises that shape her vote - it’s the urgent need for real support in an anxious, uncertain future.

That story was produced by Ruby Perryman in partnership with the Centre for Advancing Journalism and The Yarn, from Melbourne University.

Hope for the future by Catarina Fraga Matos and Kwame Slusher

Confusion, curiosity, excitement to frustration. Young Australians paint a vivid palette of emotions as they face their first vote.

Whether it’s dreaming of climate action, fairness, or just finally being heard, these young Australian voters have big hopes, even if the path to the ballot box is still a little messy.

Hear them out.

All The Best Credits

Host Kwame Slusher

Executive Producer: Phoebe Adler-Ryan

Editorial Producer: Melanie Bakewell

Community Coordinator: Patrick McKenzie

Artwork Design: Lindsey Vassalo

Mixed and Compiled by Emma Higgins

Theme Music composed by Shining Bird

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