ABSTRACT
These problems were compounded by geographic and social factors common to small isolated populations and which increased vulnerability to weak economic and adverse climatic conditions (Ling, 1995, p. 29). Isolation from government became a critical factor in determining disadvantage. The problem for both state and federal governments has been the perception by sections of the electorate that they are being neglected. This has translated into a significant vote for independents and minor parties. It has threatened the once stable political patterns with the major parties fearing that a failure to respond appropriately could continue the pattern of disaffection (Sorenson, 2000).
