The issue of Christianity and its influence on politics has once again been aroused in the public, after both John Howard and Kevin Rudd gave an address to Australian Christians in the 'Make-It-Count' event.
Lyn Allison, the Democrats leader, led the charge saying that although Australia was a Christian country; but there were too many Christians in parliament, especially at the Cabinet level which means a range of views are not represented, reported the Australian.
"It is not representative of the broader community – in Cabinet and at all levels," she said.
"It just means that on a range of issues, in terms of decision making, the view is not representative. Our society is secular, but then (Health Minister) Tony Abbott boasts there are a number of strong Catholics in cabinet."
In the public, hostile responses were made by talkback callers in Melbourne saying that the church and government shouldn't mix; which Reverend Tim Costello, the CEO of World Vision Australia said the complaints were misguided, reported AAP.
"The notion of a separation of church and state was designed to protect the church from government, not the reverse," he said.
Christians are increasingly being targeted by both major political parties, as the federal election is expected to be tight with their votes crucial in deciding who the next Prime Minister will be.
John Warhurst, a professor specialising in political-groups at the Australian Nation University, told Bloomberg that Christian vote could be a 'decisive factor' in this election, given the attendance of both leaders at this event organised by the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL). He further added that this constituent is a group which both leaders want to engage with.
"It's a sign (attendance of both leaders at the 'Make-It-Count' Event) religion is back in the political arena, and the Christian vote could be a deciding factor," said Professor Warhurst.
"It's not like in the U.S., where religion is a central theme and dictates the way people vote. Still, Christian groups are a voting block the leaders want to engage.''
In an address to Christians, organized by the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL), both Mr. Howard and Mr. Rudd explained how Christianity has shaped both their lives and the country.