Voice to Parliament: Where you can vote early in the upcoming referendum – Here’s what you need to know
Vote to Parliament: Where to vote early in the upcoming referendum – Here’s what you need to know
Aussies will soon be able to cast their votes in the upcoming referendum on whether an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice should be introduced into Parliament.
While the Voice to Parliament referendum will be held on October 14, snap elections will start in the Northern Territory, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia on Monday.
Early voting centers in the remaining states and territories will open on Tuesday, following Monday’s bank holiday in the ACT, NSW, Queensland and South Australia.
While the Voice to Parliament referendum will take place on October 14, early voting will start on Monday in the Northern Territory, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia and the following day in the remaining states and territories.
According to referendum law, polling stations cannot open on a public holiday.
Australian Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers said voters should plan ahead if they cannot vote in person on October 14.
‘Federal referendums are personal events, just like elections. This is the first time in almost a quarter century that the country has come together to have their say on potential constitutional changes.” said Mr. Rogers.
‘If you can vote on October 14, then you should do so.
“However, if your circumstances prevent you from doing so, you should consider the early voting and voting options available based on your circumstances.
“Remember, it is mandatory to vote for all registered Australians.”
Australian Election Commissioner Tom Rogers said voters should plan ahead if they cannot vote in person on October 14
Visit the AEC website for the complete list of early voting center locations, opening days and hours.
Anyone who cannot physically vote at an early voting booth or on October 14 is encouraged to request a mail-in ballot.
Applications for postal voting close on October 11 at 6:00 PM local time in each state and must be completed on or before October 11.
The postal voting certificate and ballot paper must be retained and returned to the AEC as soon as possible.
This will be Australia’s first referendum since 1999.
If successful, the ‘Yes’ Vote will provide an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to advise the Government on policy and legislative issues that directly affect them.
The most recent Newspoll suggested the yes vote would fail by 36 to 56 percent.