The Great Aussie Tradition of Polling Day: The Democracy Sausage

On election day, Katie Gray, the president of the Parents and Citizens (P&C) at Lewisham Public School in Sydney's inner west, will wake at dawn to prepare for the much-anticipated polling day extravaganza. This small community school has rallied support from nearly every family over recent weeks, showcasing a strong sense of community in organizing the event. This day embodies the quintessential Australian experience of voting, enhanced by the tradition of enjoying a 'democracy sausage.' This term was officially coined in 2010, coinciding with interactive maps of polling barbecues, and received recognition as Word of the Year by the Australian National Dictionary Centre in 2016. The democracy sausage is served hot off the grill, typically nestled in soft white bread, garnished with sautéed onions and a drizzle of sauce. For many Australians, it’s a culinary reward for enduring the lines at polling stations. This tradition dates back to the compulsory voting introduced in 1924, emphasizing community engagement and the spirit of democracy. Butchery experts weigh in on what makes the ideal sausage for this occasion. Adam Stratton, a champion butcher, insists that an authentic ‘fat beef snag’ with natural casings and an optimal fat-to-lean ratio (ideally 80% lean to 20% fat) is essential for flavor and texture. Another butcher, Alison Meagher, reinforces this, stating that natural casings preserve the integrity of the sausage, preventing it from splitting or losing moisture during cooking. To achieve the perfect democracy sausage, cooking techniques are critical. Both butchers recommend a slow-cooking method to ensure a juicy interior without splitting the casing. Proper preparation, such as par-boiling before grilling, is advised to keep the sausages moist and flavorful. Hence, a well-informed approach to selecting and cooking the sausages can elevate the entire polling day experience. This light-hearted yet culturally significant event reflects how food and community intertwine with civic duties in Australia, fostering not only an enjoyable atmosphere but also a celebration of democracy through shared experiences and traditions.