Media Release 1998: Over 12 Million Australians Able to Have Their Say in the 1998 Federal Election

10 September 1998

The Australian Electoral Commissioner, Mr Bill Gray, announced today that over 12 million Australians now have the opportunity to vote in the 1998 federal election.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) today released the final enrolment figure of 12 056 625 Australians who are entitled to vote at the election, following the close of rolls at 8pm, 7 September 1998.

This figure compares with 11 655 190 electors who were enrolled for the 1996 federal election at close of rolls.

Of the enrolment cards received by the AEC in the last week, about a quarter were new enrolments with the remainder being change of address.

Mr Gray said that unfortunately at every election there were a number of enrolment cards that reached the AEC after the close of rolls.

"Once the rolls close no further enrolment activity can take place until after the election," he said.

Anyone who had submitted an enrolment form too late will receive notice of this from the AEC. People enrolling for the first time will not be able to vote in this election, but they will be added to the roll for future elections. Electors who submitted a change of address after the close of rolls should check with the AEC if they are still entitled to vote.

Details of enrolment by State and Territory are below.

Further information:

Brien Hallett
Director Information
Ph. (02) 6271 4415

Bernadette O'Meara
Assistant Director Information
Ph. (02) 6271 4548