19 November 2009

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) today urged Higgins electors who are going to be away from home on election day, Saturday, 5 December 2009, to make their vote count by voting early.

The Divisional Returning Officer for Higgins, Mark Strong, said people who were going to be outside the Higgins electorate on election day should vote at an early voting centre or by post, as there would be no voting outside the electorate on election day.

 “Early voting centres are now open and will operate until 4 December 2009. To find the location and operating hours of your nearest early voting centre, visit the AEC website or call 13 23 26,” Mr Strong said.

“Alternatively you can vote before election day at any AEC divisional office around Australia or by applying for a postal vote.” Postal vote application forms are available from the AEC website or at any AEC office or any Australia Post outlet in the Higgins electorate. 

Electors are eligible for an early vote if they:

• are more than 8km from a polling place
• are approaching childbirth
• have a serious illness or care for someone who is ill
• have religious beliefs that prevent them from attending a polling place on election day
• are working or travelling on election day.

Election day for the Higgins by-election is Saturday, 5 December 2009. It is compulsory for all electors enrolled in the electorate of Higgins to vote in the by-election, including electors aged over 70 years. This differs from Local Government elections in Victoria where voting is not compulsory for people over 70.

For more information on enrolment or the by-election visit our website or call the AEC on 13 23 26.

Media contacts

Steve Kennedy
Director Operations, Victorian State Office
Australian Electoral Commission
03 9285 7105
0413 271 211