Media Release 2007: Nominations deadline for candidates in the 2007 federal election

24 October 2007

Anyone interested in running as a candidate in the 2007 federal election, has until Thursday 1 November to get their nomination to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC).

The Electoral Commissioner, Ian Campbell said today that nominations for the Senate and the House of Representatives must be received by the close of nominations date of 12noon on Thursday 1 November.

"To be a valid nomination, both the completed nomination form and deposit must be received by the relevant AEC officer, and late nominations cannot be accepted under any circumstances," he said.

Nomination forms are available on the AEC's website at www.aec.gov.au, at any AEC office or by phoning 13 23 26. The deposit required is $500 for a House of Representatives candidate and $1000 for a Senate candidate.

Nominations for the Senate must be made at the capital city office of the AEC State Manager (Australian Electoral Officer) for that State or Territory. Single nominations for the House of Representatives must be made at the office of the Divisional Returning Officer for that Division.

Bulk nominations of endorsed House of Representatives candidates of a political party must be lodged with the State Manager not less than 48 hours before the close of nominations.

Mr Campbell encouraged interested candidates to lodge their nomination as early as possible.

"Nominating on the last day may cause problems, particularly if there are issues in the nomination form which require time to resolve.

"Important information for candidates, including the Candidate's Handbook and the addresses of AEC offices is available on the AEC website or by ringing 13 23 26," he said.

To be eligible to nominate for either the Senate or the House of Representatives, a person must be an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older and an elector entitled to vote, or a person qualified to become such an elector.

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