The Greens (WA) decision-making process

The Greens (WA) operate by grassroots participatory democracy and consensus. As far as possible, decisions are made by as many of the members as possible. All meeting of The Greens (WA) are open to all members of the party.

Postal ballots of members are used to select office bearers, approve policy and preselect candidates for elections. Office bearers are elected annually by ballot and can only serve as office bearers for two years at a time.

Meetings operate by consensus, a process for group decision-making. It is a method by which an entire group of people can come to an agreement. The input and ideas of all participants are gathered and synthesised to arrive at a final decision acceptable to all. Through consensus, we are not only working to achieve better solutions, but also to promote the growth of community and trust.

Good overviews on consensus can be found at:

• http://www.actupny.org/documents/CDdocuments/Consensus.html
• http://www.globenet.org/horizon-local/perso/consent.html
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consensus_decision-making
• http://www.casagordita.com/consensus.htm

Major decisions in the party are made by Regional Groups and the Representitives Council. Proposals are written up by Regional Groups, office bearers or individual members. These proposals are sent out to Regional Groups and discussed at their monthly meetings and a decision is arrived at by consensus. At the following Reps Council meeting, the proposal is discussed and the Regional Group representitives contribute the decision of their group. As far as possible, a decision is arrived at by consensus. If no decision can be reached a new proposal may be sent back out to regional groups the next month.

As one person can block consensus, voting can be used if consensus fails at Regional Groups or Reps Council. An issue can be taken to a vote if a few people block consensus and 75% of the meeting agree to take the issue to a vote. Such a vote requires a two thirds majority. All other meetings operate by consensus.

The Greens (WA) believe strongly in affirmative action. Throughout our history, women have taken an important role as candidates for election, office bearers and committee members. Young people and seniors have also been important and valued contributors in the party. We welcome people of non-English speaking backgrounds.

All members are encouraged to be involved in writing policy. Most of this is achieved by email, a policy wiki, and face to face meetings.