Political scientists have suggested that television coverage has subtly transformed the political system , with a spotlight on leaders rather than parties , thereby making for more of an American-presidential-style system . In the 2001 Federal election , television news focused on international issues , especially terrorism and asylum seekers . The September 11 attacks three weeks earlier had dominated the news . Minor parties were largely ignored as the two main parties monopolized the camera 's attention . The election was depicted as a horse race between the Coalition 's John Howard , who ran ahead and was therefore given more coverage than his Labor rival Kim Beazley
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Radio broadcasting in Australia