Don’t miss your chance. The voter enrollment deadline is just around the corner! Australians have until 8pm AEST today to ensure their eligibility to vote in their federal election. An estimated 18 million citizens are currently enrolled, the highest ever in Australian history. This equally impressive figure reflects a remarkable surge in civic engagement.
According to the AEC, Australia’s electoral roll is over 98 percent complete. This 100 percent completion rate is a huge step forward from past elections. In fact, it was 97.7 percent in the 2023 referendum and 96.8 percent in the last federal election in 2022, which at the time had set the record for voter participation rates.
Since the federal election was called, nearly 200,000 Australians have already rushed to enroll. Hundreds of others have joined in the cause, updating their own information. This increase is a testament to the increased recognition of the need to engage with and fight for the democratic process. The AEC has urged citizens to verify their enrollment status or register for the first time through its official website.
“It is likely to be around 98 per cent complete compared to 97.7 per cent for the 2023 referendum and 96.8 per cent at the 2022 federal election, which was a then-record,” said an AEC spokesperson.
Voting is still mandatory for all Australians over the age of 18 years. Citizens who do not show up to vote will be subject to a $20 penalty. Early voting begins on Tuesday, April 22 through Thursday, May 1. With postal vote applications now open, Australians have never had more options to ensure they’re able to safely and securely cast their ballots.
The deadline for postal vote applications is 6pm on April 30, allowing voters who cannot attend polling places on election day to participate conveniently.
The AEC emphasizes that voters can easily check their enrollment information and make necessary updates online, ensuring that they are prepared for the upcoming election.
