Your vote matters: Here are several reminders for the upcoming May polls
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As the buzz of the upcoming federal election on 3 May 2025 continues to build, Australians are being reminded of their civic duties.
Along with their duties, they are also reminded of their responsibilities and the consequences of not adhering to the democratic process.
While most citizens are aware of the fine for not voting, there's a lesser-known yet far more severe penalty that awaits anyone caught voting more than once.
This act has always been frowned upon.
It is a criminal offence under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 and the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984.
How will authorities know that voters cast their vote more than once?
After the polls close on election day, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) meticulously processes voter lists from polling places nationwide.
These scans identify any instances where a voter's name has been marked off more than once.
The AEC would then contact voters who potentially voted multiple times for an explanation.
If there's evidence of deliberate double-voting, the matter could be escalated to the Australian Federal Police and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions for further action.
Caught offenders could face fines of up to 60 penalty units—translating to a hefty sum of up to $19,800.
They may also face 12 months of imprisonment.
In Australia, voting is more than a right; it's a legal obligation for every citizen over the age of 18.
While many worry that they could get in jail for not voting, failing to vote should not result in jail time.
However, failing to vote could result in a $20 penalty.
After receiving a notice from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) for not voting, voters may also receive instructions on how to settle the fine.
The voter enrolment ended last Friday, 4 April.
Voters with a 'valid and sufficient reason' for their absence at the polls can inform the AEC.
The Divisional Returning Officer (DRO) for your electorate will review your case and decide if your reason exempts you from the fine.
While it's compulsory for all eligible Australian citizens to vote, there are provisions for those who cannot make it to the polling stations on election day.
Early voting starts two weeks prior to the election and should begin on Saturday, 19 April 2025.
Postal votes are also an option for those unable to vote in person.
As Aussies follow the election campaign trail and watch politicians make their pitches, remember the importance of every vote.
Let everyone do their part to ensure a fair and just election this 3 May.
Have you ever encountered any issues while voting? Do you have any questions about this year's federal election? Share your experiences and concerns in the comments section below.
Along with their duties, they are also reminded of their responsibilities and the consequences of not adhering to the democratic process.
While most citizens are aware of the fine for not voting, there's a lesser-known yet far more severe penalty that awaits anyone caught voting more than once.
This act has always been frowned upon.
It is a criminal offence under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 and the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984.
How will authorities know that voters cast their vote more than once?
After the polls close on election day, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) meticulously processes voter lists from polling places nationwide.
These scans identify any instances where a voter's name has been marked off more than once.
The AEC would then contact voters who potentially voted multiple times for an explanation.
If there's evidence of deliberate double-voting, the matter could be escalated to the Australian Federal Police and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions for further action.
Caught offenders could face fines of up to 60 penalty units—translating to a hefty sum of up to $19,800.
They may also face 12 months of imprisonment.
In Australia, voting is more than a right; it's a legal obligation for every citizen over the age of 18.
While many worry that they could get in jail for not voting, failing to vote should not result in jail time.
However, failing to vote could result in a $20 penalty.
After receiving a notice from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) for not voting, voters may also receive instructions on how to settle the fine.
The voter enrolment ended last Friday, 4 April.
Voters with a 'valid and sufficient reason' for their absence at the polls can inform the AEC.
The Divisional Returning Officer (DRO) for your electorate will review your case and decide if your reason exempts you from the fine.
While it's compulsory for all eligible Australian citizens to vote, there are provisions for those who cannot make it to the polling stations on election day.
Early voting starts two weeks prior to the election and should begin on Saturday, 19 April 2025.
Postal votes are also an option for those unable to vote in person.
As Aussies follow the election campaign trail and watch politicians make their pitches, remember the importance of every vote.
Let everyone do their part to ensure a fair and just election this 3 May.
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