Google has partnered with a group of Australian politicians to launch ‘Student Voice’, a simulated online election for young Australians.

Utilising standards and processes from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), Google is inviting 15 -17 year old students across Australia to vote in the simulated online election from 9 – 12 August. The initiative is supported by senator Kate Lundy, senator Scott Ludlam, Paul Fletcher MP and AEC state manager Doug Orr. ‘Student Voice’ aims to educate young Australians about the democratic process.

Prime minister, Julia Gillard and leader of the Greens, senator Bob Brown have each created a YouTube video addressing young Australians in the hope of securing their ‘Student Voice’ vote. The results will be announced the week before the August 21 Federal election and will be available by electorate, state and nation.

Alan Noble, engineering director of Google Australia and New Zealand said: “The internet gives young Australians unprecedented access to political information and politicians. We hope Student Voice further encourages young people to engage in political debate and make their voice heard.”

Google Australia have also unveiled efforts to make election information more useful and accessible. The Google Election 2010 website connects Australians with information about the election, parties, and political issues. Visitors to the site can explore electoral information on a Google map and gain access to up-to-date insights.