Pre-Selection Ballots, 1968, 1969

Containers:

Box 134

Component identifier:

Series 3

Content Summary:

Jim Fraser was challenged in 1968 in a Pre-selection ballot to choose the ALP Candidate to contest the A.C.T. Seat in the House of Representatives. His opponent was local party member and president of the North Canberra branch, Gordon Walsh whose supporters consisted largely of University students and staff members who mounted a formidable campaign. Walsh won the ballot by two votes.

Unprecedented support for Jim Fraser erupted within the A.C.T. for their member whom they regarded variously as Mayor, Ombudsmen, friend and confidant and Fraser was urged to stand as an Independent. His support within Canberra branches soon manifested itself, particularly within his own Canberra South and a protest was made by them to the New South Wales Executive of the Party. After investigation, the Ballot of October 1968 was declared to be invalid and a new ballot was ordered. This was won by Jim Fraser in March 1969.

The series contains Jim Fraser's A.L.P. membership tickets (1948-1970), the large number of letters and telegrams received after the 1968 ballot; the petition entitled "A vote of confidence in Mr J.R. Fraser MHR as Member for the A.C.T. by the citizens of Canberra" signed by 8906 constituents; and press cuttings.

Immediate source of acquisition:

Jim Fraser's papers were presented to the National Library in 1970 by his widow, Mrs Helen Fraser of Canberra.

Names:

Jim R. Fraser

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