Media release – Citizen Tasmania, 23 October 2023

Launch of New Tasmanian Political App

Human rights and cultural organisation Citizen Tasmania will launch a new web app for people to participate directly in democracy.

The Electnow web app launches in Hobart on Monday 23 October, at the Stables Room, RACV Hotel Hobart 11am to 1pm.

The web app is designed as a digital town square where leaders, candidates and citizens can connect in an open and respectful exchange of ideas.

The web app will give people the tools to contribute, learn and engage. People can contribute by raising what they need and sharing solutions. They can learn about how governments work, the resources that are available and the challenges each electorate is facing. They can engage with leaders and other citizens about the decisions and issues that impact them.

Founder of Citizen Tasmania Grace Williams has addressed the launch of the Electnow Web app and why she has spent years developing it with her team in consultation with communities.

“Social media and technology has impacted our democracies. We believe it also has rich potential to make our democracy more vibrant, human and accessible.”

“We are experiencing many crises. Strengthening democracy and innovation are the way forward to address these social, economic and ecological challenges. Using technology allows people on the margins to contribute their voices to political decisions that will impact the rest of their lives.”

“As a young person, I’ve always wondered why democracy hasn’t been digitised. We use our phones for all sorts of things but we don’t have a process for politics.”

“Our app draws on demographic census data to support engagement for each electorate.”

“Electnow will help people understand politics. We have heard from communities that the system can be complex and overwhelming to engage with.”

“This app will also be a resource to leaders to better understand what matters to the community, and deeply connect with constituents.”

“Our app will be in a beta version and feedback from users can help influence the App’s ongoing development. We welcome input from the community about what an app like this can do for them.”

Electnow is available on 23 October at electnow.com.au.

WHEN: 11am, Monday 23 October, 2023.

  • 11am: Acknowledgement of the Country 11am -11.10 am

  • 11.10am: Welcome and Project Speech by Citizen Tasmania Director, Grace Williams 11.10am to 11.30am

  • 11.30am: Showcase Demo Video

  • 11.35am Speech from Chief Technology Officer

  • 12pm -1pm: Informal networking and logging on to platform Grace Williams available for interview.

WHERE: 154-156 Collins St, Hobart TAS 7000 at the Stables Room, RACV Hotel Hobart