VEC encourages early votes

VOTERS should check the mail from this week for their ballot packs for the election, and Victorian Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately is encouraging people to vote as early as possible.
“With the election being conducted by post, voters must complete and return their ballot material as soon as possible to make sure their vote counts,” he said.
Ballot papers must be in the mail or hand-delivered to the Election Manager by 6pm on October 23. Voters are advised to check their local mail clearance times.
Voters who haven’t received their ballot pack by October 16 should phone 8619 1427 during business hours to arrange a replacement.
Candidates who have nominated for the election are listed in the ballot packs and can also be viewed at vec.vic.gov.au. Where provided by candidates, a photo and statement will be included. Voters can also view answers to the optional candidate questionnaire online.
Voting is compulsory for voters who were on the state roll for this election at 4pm on August 28 and council-enrolled voters are encouraged to vote. State-enrolled voters who don’t vote may be fined.