Saturday, June 7, 2025

2023 Referendum: Ensuring Your Vote Counts

On Saturday, 14 October, Australians from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds are set to cast their votes in the 2023 Referendum. Assistance is available to ensure an inclusive voting experience for all citizens.

Australian Electoral Commissioner, Tom Rogers, urges individuals to prepare ahead and acquaint themselves with the proper procedure for filling out the ballot paper.

Rogers highlighted, “For the first time in nearly 25 years, the nation unites to voice their opinions on a potential Constitutional amendment through this federal referendum, mirroring the collective spirit typically seen in elections.”

Mandatory for citizens aged 18 and above, the correct completion of the ballot paper is crucial for your vote to be counted.

How to Vote

When you get to the voting place, someone will give you a paper that asks if you agree with the suggested change to the Constitution. Write ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ in the box provided, making sure it’s clear and in English.

A comparison of voting papers

Description automatically generated

If you make a mistake, no worries – just ask for a new paper from one of the voting staff and start again.

Alternative Voting

Unable to attend a polling place on 14 October? Early voting is an option from 2 to 13 October, or you might qualify for a postal vote. Explore early voting centres across Australia, with details on locations and operational hours at aec.gov.au/early. Postal voting applications are accessible at aec.gov.au/referendums/postal-voting until 6pm local time on 11 October.

For Australians abroad, postal voting or visiting an overseas voting centre are viable alternatives. While referendum voting is optional for overseas residents, an overseas notification form is recommended if voting is not feasible. Visit aec.gov.au/overseas for further details.

Pause, Verify, Reflect

While the AEC doesn’t oversee referendum communication content, the ‘Pause, Verify, Reflect’ initiative offers guidance on recognizing potential misinformation.

Rogers adds, “Our website features translated factsheets and a ‘disinformation register’ to address inaccuracies, aiding in the combat against misinformation. Voters are encouraged to discern the reliability and timeliness of the information sources, promoting informed voting decisions.”

Additional Resources

Multilingual resources are available at aec.gov.au/translated or contact telephone interpreter services at 1300 720 153 for assistance in your language.

Available resources include the Referendum Booklet, encompassing the arguments for and against by parliamentarians, and the official voting guide with essential voting information.

Hot this week

Philippines-Australia Friendship Festival to Celebrate Culture and Community at Glorietta

The Philippines-Australia Friendship Festival is set to take place...

Ripple’s Legal Victory and What It Means for XRP’s Future

Ripple vs SEC Case: A Brief Recap The legal dispute...

Bringing Communities Together with Personalised Gift Bags

Australia’s community events are where cultures collide in the...

Inventory Accuracy and Management: A 3PL Advantage in Australian Warehousing

Key Highlights Inventory accuracy and management are pivotal in effective...

Staying close to home: celebrating Filipinos in Australia 

Did you know over 320,000 Filipinos now call Australia...

Topics

Philippines-Australia Friendship Festival to Celebrate Culture and Community at Glorietta

The Philippines-Australia Friendship Festival is set to take place...

Ripple’s Legal Victory and What It Means for XRP’s Future

Ripple vs SEC Case: A Brief Recap The legal dispute...

Bringing Communities Together with Personalised Gift Bags

Australia’s community events are where cultures collide in the...

Inventory Accuracy and Management: A 3PL Advantage in Australian Warehousing

Key Highlights Inventory accuracy and management are pivotal in effective...

Staying close to home: celebrating Filipinos in Australia 

Did you know over 320,000 Filipinos now call Australia...

Measures Drivers Can Take to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents

Every day, people walk along streets and cross busy...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_img