Alberta Liberal Leader David Swann, seen in 2009, said a tax credit may encourage more Albertans to cast a ballot. (Andree Lau/CBC)

The Alberta Liberals are floating the idea of a $50 refundable tax credit for all Albertans who vote in the next provincial election.

The idea is part of a plan pitched by leader David Swann Wednesday to clean up government and make it more accountable and responsive.

Swann also wants whistleblower protection and an independent commission to set the pay of provincial politicians.

"I'm hearing more and more from Albertans that they have disengaged from politics, that they don't trust anybody, that the political process stinks in Alberta, that they're tired of the culture of cronyism that we've talked about," Swann told CBC News.

"I think it's time to say very clearly where we stand and what we're trying to do to try and improve the credibility and the consistent messages people receive about their government."

Swann said a tax credit for voters in the 2012 election may be needed since a record-low 41 per cent of the province's 2,252,104 eligible voters cast ballots in the 2008 election.

Swann called that embarrassing and said it shows democracy is failing in Alberta.

The Liberals are holding their annual general meeting May 15 and 16 in Edmonton.