Enrol to vote before tonight’s deadline

THE federal election has been announced and Australians must act now to ensure they are enrolled before the deadline of 8pm tonight (Thursday, April 18).

Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) said all Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to enrol and vote in the May 18 federal election.

“Enrolling and voting is compulsory. If you are not enrolled, you can’t vote in the 2019 federal election.

“Australians must also update their address details on the electoral roll if they have moved, or changed their name. If they’re not sure of their current status – check online via the AEC website or call us on 13 23 26.”

He said a record 96.5 per cent of eligible Australians were enrolled, which was “an extraordinary achievement”.

“At the same time, there are still people who remain unenrolled who need to take action before the deadline of 8pm on April 18.”

The best and quickest way to enrol or update your address or name details is online.

Australians unable to go online can pick up a paper enrolment form at any AEC office or Australia Post, however, correctly completed applications must be returned to the AEC by the close of rolls deadline.

Seventeen-year-old Australians turning 18 years of age on or before May 18 should also enrol and vote in the federal election.