Australians can start voting in the federal election after pre-poll voting centres opened their doors thisweek.
Voters can visit one of these centres, or apply to cast a postal vote. If recent federal election trends continue, over four million people may have their say before the actual 2 July election.
This year is the first full federal election where voters wanting to pre-poll will be asked whether they are entitled to do so.
Many TWU (Vic/Tas Branch) members take a well-earned holiday from work when their kids are on school holidays.
School holidays between terms 2 and 3 this year fall between Saturday, 25 June and Sunday, 10 July.
So if you are going to get away – do not forget to vote early. In an election this close YOU SHOULD MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT.
Visit theAustralian Electoral Commission website for further information on how to ensure you have a say on election day.
Voters are eligible to vote early if they:
· are outside the electorate where you are enrolled to vote
· are more than 8km from a polling place
· are travelling
· are unable to leave their workplace to vote
· are seriously ill, infirm or due to give birth shortly (or caring for someone who is)
· are a patient in hospital and can’t vote at the hospital
· have religious beliefs that prevent them from attending a polling place
· are in prison serving a sentence of less than three years or otherwise detained
· are a silent elector
· have a reasonable fear for their safety.