Local government elections to go ahead

THIS year’s scheduled council elections will go ahead as planned, following confirmation from the state government.
The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) has since released its COVIDSafe election plan, which puts extra measures in place to safely manage the elections being held by post on October 24.
Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately said Victorians should be reassured that postal voting was safe and of high integrity, and the VEC was ready to respond to the changing environment.
“The situation remains dynamic and the VEC continues to actively monitor conditions and restrictions.”
Additional measures in place include increased distancing in election offices, limiting
face-to-face contact, enforcing mask wearing where mandated by the Victorian Government, and moving operational activity online whenever possible.’
Measures to further safeguard voters and VEC staff include the removal of counter service for replacement ballot packs and unenrolled votes for these elections. Requests can be made over the phone and replacement packs will be sent by mail.
Voters will still be able to hand deliver completed ballot papers to the election office if they miss the mail collection times with strict social distancing measures in place.
Information sessions for candidates will be moved online.
It is also expected that additional social distancing during vote counting activities will delay the declaration of results for some elections by at least one week to November 13.
Mr Gately reminded voters that the situation is fluid and may require the VEC to adapt to the evolving environment.
“The election program is complex, and all participants are asked to be patient during the various stages of the elections and respectful of all involved. Short notice changes to processes may be required.”
Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane said he sought advice from Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Professor Brett Sutton, on how to proceed.
“The Chief Health Officer has advised that October represents a period when risk is likely to be substantially lower than at present, and there are no compelling public health grounds for the elections to be delayed.
“This decision was not made lightly and is based on the best public health advice available – but I am pleased Victorian communities can have their say on their local government representatives at democratic council general elections as planned.”
Head to vec.vic.gov.au/voting/2020-local-council-election/providing-safe-elections.