In "In a Sunburned Country," Bill Bryson highlights the unique legal requirement for Australian citizens to participate in federal elections. This mandatory voting system, which includes all residents regardless of their location, emphasizes the importance of civic duty in the country. Australian law mandates that every eligible voter must cast their ballot, fostering a culture of political engagement and responsibility among its citizens.

This compulsory voting system ensures that election outcomes reflect the will of the populace more accurately, as it seeks to minimize the effects of apathy in the democratic process. Bryson's observation serves as a reminder of the varying approaches to voting around the world, contrasting with countries where participation is voluntary and often lower, thereby making Australia's system distinct and noteworthy.