Postal Vote Applications Open for the Voice Referendum as Australians Make Their Voices Heard

If you can’t make it to a polling booth, apply for a postal vote

If you are an eligible Australian and cannot make it to a polling booth for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, the Governor-General David Hurley has opened postal vote applications. The writ for the referendum has been issued, and eligible Australians have until 8 pm on Monday, 18 September, to enroll in order to participate in the 14 October referendum.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has emphasized the importance of enrolling or updating details within the limited time frame of just one week. The AEC has already shifted gears and is diligently preparing for polling day. In order to accommodate those who are unable to vote in person, the AEC has set a deadline of 6 pm on Wednesday, 11 October, for postal vote applications. This provides a month for people to apply for a postal vote. However, they must already be on the electoral rolls by 18 September.

Apply for a postal vote if you cannot make it to an in-person voting centre

The AEC urges Australians to apply for a postal vote only if they are unable to make it to an in-person voting center. On the day of the referendum, there will be thousands of polling places open from 8 am to 6 pm, along with hundreds of early voting centers available throughout the two-week early voting period. Furthermore, mobile voting and in-person voting centers overseas will also be made available.

The AEC acknowledges that some individuals may receive postal vote applications or links to online postal vote applications in the mail from third parties such as political parties. While this is legal and a common occurrence during every election or referendum, the AEC encourages people in need of a postal vote to apply directly through their website. Applying through the AEC’s website ensures that a ballot paper will be posted out more quickly. Additionally, the AEC operates under the Privacy Act, and applying through their website guarantees the protection of personal details.

Temporary staff needed for polling booths

The AEC is also seeking up to 100,000 temporary staff to work at polling booths on referendum day, as well as in the lead-up to it. Commissioner Tom Rogers encourages those seeking additional income and a valuable experience to consider applying. The work is paid, providing a boost to help pay bills, plan something nice, or even get ready for Christmas. Most roles are a single day’s employment, and training will be provided. However, certain roles may stretch over a few weeks, offering a unique opportunity to work at the first federal referendum this century and add a rare experience to one’s resume.

Voice referendum pamphlets being distributed

The official referendum pamphlet, containing the Yes and No cases for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, is currently being distributed to households across Australia. Approximately 13 million copies of the pamphlet are being delivered as unaddressed mail. While the pamphlets are written in English only, they have been translated into 35 foreign languages as well as a range of First Nations languages. The AEC has also made the pamphlet available in accessible formats, including large print and audio files.

The online version of the pamphlet can be accessed via the AEC website for public viewing. Additionally, on the day of the referendum, posters will be erected at polling venues, providing a link to the online version of the pamphlet for voters to review before casting their vote.

Enrol to vote and have your voice heard

To enrol to vote or check your enrolment, visit the AEC website. It is crucial for eligible Australians to participate in the democratic process by enrolling and casting their votes. The Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum presents a significant opportunity for all Australians to have their voices heard, and by engaging in the referendum, citizens can contribute to shaping the future of the country.

With the option of a postal vote, those unable to attend a polling booth in person can still exercise their right to vote. Applying for a postal vote ensures that individuals are able to participate in the referendum, even if they are unable to make it to an in-person voting center.

In conclusion, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum is an important moment in Australian democracy. By enrolling to vote and actively participating in the referendum, Australians can contribute to the ongoing process of reconciliation and recognition of the First Nations people. Additionally, the AEC’s provision of a postal vote option ensures that everyone can exercise their democratic right, regardless of their circumstances.