The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is committed to ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to voting. Ahead of the upcoming federal election, the AEC is offering a range of accessible services and information to support all voters.
Enrolment
To vote, citizens aged 18 and over must be enrolled. Check or update your details online, by PDF form, or by calling 13 23 26. You can now use a Medicare card for enrolment if you don’t have a driver’s license or passport.
Voting Options
For those unable to attend polling places on election day, alternative options are available:
- Postal Voting: Available for people with disabilities and carers. A friend or family member can help complete the ballot.
- General Postal Voter Registration: Apply to receive ballot papers for future elections.
- Early Voting: Begins two weeks before election day at over 500 locations.
- Mobile Voting Teams: These teams will visit residential facilities, aged care, hospitals, and mental health facilities for those unable to travel.
Assistance at Polling Places: You can be assisted by a nominated person or AEC staff.
Accessibility of Services
The AEC is expanding accessible polling places, considering factors like wheelchair access, transport links, and available rest areas. After the election announcement, details on polling places, accessibility ratings, and other features will be available on the AEC website’s “Where to Vote” tool.
Accessible Information
The AEC provides resources in various formats:
- Easy-read guides, social stories, and captioned videos.
- Large-print posters and accessible education materials on the AEC website.
- Official election guides in multiple formats, including large font, e-text, audio, and e-braille.
- A website feature that reads out content for those who prefer auditory information.
The AEC is dedicated to ensuring everyone can participate in the election. For more details, visit www.aec.gov.au/assistance, call 13 23 26, or email info@aec.gov.au. Additional information is available in multiple languages.
Ensure your voice is heard this election!