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This article evaluates the success of the Australian Democrats, a minor party that gained parliamentary representation in federal politics from 1977 until 2008. The partys contribution to Australian democracy is analysed in three areas: electoral, organisational and parliamentary, according to a broader notion of success that incorporates a partys longer term impact on the processes and culture of politics. Somewhat ironically, factors that contributed to the Democrats success also brought about its downfall: the partys organisation, its electoral performance, parliamentary focus and the balance of power position the party held in the Senate that allowed it to negotiate with the major players. Nevertheless, the Democrats activities mobilised other minor parties and created a lasting expectation in the minds of Australians that the Senate is an important forum for legislative scrutiny—more than a mere ‘rubber stamp’.
