Aussie elections are compulsory - potentially face a fine for not voting without a good excuse.
However, they are fun events and very well organised and manned. No real long lines or waiting, easy to get to etc.
Usually most of the schools are turned into polling stations - with sausage sizzles, cakes, activities for the kids etc.
There is no "us" and "them", you will find people from both sides of the fence/politics conversing and enjoying each others company. Often catch up with people you havnt seen for a while. Probably find Mr March and RestorerJohn having a beer together!
There is definitely no boarding up of shops etc., in fact the opposite as everything opens up as everyone is out and about.
That sounds wonderful!
I watch a topical comedy news show on UK TV Channel 4 called "The Last Leg" with an Aussie presenter Adam Hills (did a KFC Fillet burger commercial in 1993). He said that voting day is like a big national day out. I've seen the democracy sausage selfie thing, that's great.
In England, it's like everything for us, a point to moan about
Polling station too far away, weather too cold, hot, wet, dry, windy or boring.
Generally, with exception of the EU membership referendum vote, everyone is quiet and polite and respectful at the polling station. People always seem to hold the door open for the next person, or step aside. Everyone seems overly polite and not yobbish. Maybe I am in an area full of old people
They got a bit rowdy over the EU vote, probably because the polling station was held at the local public house!