2 November 1999

Residents and patients in many nursing homes and hospitals around Australia will be able to vote in next Saturday's referendum without having to "leave home".

The Australian Electoral Commissioner, Mr Bill Gray said that mobile polling teams would be visiting selected hospitals and nursing homes in the lead up to polling day.

"These teams will give many elderly or bedridden voters the chance to cast their vote," he said.

"Mobile polling is just one example of the lengths the Australian Electoral Commission goes to ensure that every eligible elector has the opportunity to have their say."

"Mobile polling teams provide a personal service by bringing the ballot papers, pencils and ballot boxes to electors who are unable to leave their beds," Mr Gray said.

"The teams have been organised with the assistance of hospital and nursing home administrators."

Mobile polling teams start visiting selected hospitals and nursing homes in the five days prior to and including polling day. For some hospitals and homes, mobile polling teams will visit only on polling day.

For more information on mobile polling in hospitals and nursing homes, ring the AEC on 13 23 26 for the cost of a local call.

Further information:

Mr Brien Hallett
Director Information
02 6271 4415

Ms Anthea Wilson
Assistant Director Information
03 9285 7114