19 October 2007

Electoral Commissioner, Ian Campbell said while the deadline for Australians not on the roll had passed at 8pm on 17 October, electoral laws provided an exception for two special groups who have until 8pm, Tuesday 23 October to enrol to vote at the 2007 election.

The special cases are:

1. Any young Australians turning 18 yrs of age between 18 October 2007
   and 24 November 2007
2. Anyone over 18 yrs of age who is notified by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship that they will be granted a certificate of Australian citizenship between  18 October 2007 and Friday 23 November 2007

“I urge any young Australian who is celebrating their 18th birthday between now and election day and who isn’t enrolled, to do it before next Tuesday at 8pm,” Mr Campbell said.

“I also encourage people who will officially become an Australian Citizen before election day to also enrol by the 8pm Tuesday deadline.”

The same Tuesday 8pm deadline applies to Australians who are already on the electoral roll, but need to update their enrolment address.  It is important to do this to be sure that you will be able to vote.

 “Australians on the electoral roll who need to update their enrolment address or a change of name, must get an enrolment form to the AEC by 8pm this Tuesday to be sure of their vote,” he said.

Enrolment forms are available at the AEC website, Australia Post outlets or Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) Offices.   

Note: Persons becoming citizens over the election period will need to use a special enrolment form. Find out more and download a form at: http://www.aec.gov.au/

Check the AEC website or call 13 23 26 to verify your enrolment status, or if you need help.

Media contacts:
Phil Diak
Director Media and Communication Strategy
Ph. (02) 6271 4415
Mobile: 0413 452 539