Australia
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: The Augmented Electoral Commission consists of the three person electoral commission, appointed under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, as well as the following officers: the Australian electoral officer for the state, who is a statutory officer appointed under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, and who heads the Australian Electoral Commission's administrative structures in the state; the surveyor-general from the state government of the state (or, where the state has no surveyor-general, a person nominated by the relevant state minister as holding an office equivalent to that of surveyor-general); and the auditor-general from the government of the state
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 70.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:04:01 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
b. The Boundaries Commission
Comments: The Augmented Electoral Commission makes final and non-appelable decisions.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 73 and 77.
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:16:40 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
f. Communities of interest/cultural concerns
g. Other
Comments: a.) Equality of enrolment, not population. The Augmented Electoral Commission shall, as far as practicable, endeavour to ensure that the number of electors enrolled in an Electoral Division in the State or Territory will not, at the projection time determined under section 63A in the Electoral Act, be less than 96.5% or more than 103.5% of the average divisional enrolment of that State or Territory at that time. The Augmented Electoral Commission shall give due consideration, in relation to each Electoral Division to: economic, social, and regional interests; means of communication and travel within the Electoral Division; and the physical features and area of the Electoral Division. Divisions must be contiguous and be wholly contained within a State.
Source: Electoral Act, section 73(a)and(b)
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:18:01 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
c. Number of registered voters
Comments: ...the number of electors enrolled in each Electoral Division in the State or Territory...
Source: Electoral Act, section 73(a)
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:19:24 GMT
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
c. Boundary Commission
Comments: Boundaries are drawn by a Redistribution Committee constituted under section 60 of the Commonwealth Electoral Act.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 60
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:20:32 GMT
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
c. Changes in numbers of registered voters
d. Changes in distribution of total population
k. Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
l. Other
Comments: (c)When a prescribed level of malapportionment is achieved and sustained in the state or territory; (d)When there is a change in the number of members of the House of Representatives to be chosen in the state or territory at a general election, as determined approximately one year after each general election; (k)When seven years have elapsed since the state or territory was last redistributed. Of the three possible "triggers" for redistributions, change in representation entitlements has been by far the most important and has accounted for the majority of redistributions initiated since 1984. There have been no redistributions triggered by malapportionment. The rules governing the timing of redistributions are based on objective criteria, and do not permit the government of the day any discretion with regard to the scheduling of redistributions. The rules also clearly ensure that there is a limit on the length of time that can elapse between redistributions, which has tended to limit the extent to which malapportionment can arise.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 46, 48, 59 and 76
Last updated: Fri, 19 Jul 2002 12:12:27 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Hanna Berheim
b. Job Title: Research Assistant
c. Organisation: International IDEA
Last updated: 2006-10-30 13:45:55 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
b. Optional referendum
Last updated: 2006-10-30 13:45:55 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1898
b. Optional referendum 1898
Last updated: 2006-10-31 09:03:45 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Last updated: 2006-10-30 13:47:56 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Last updated: 2006-10-30 13:47:56 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Australian Electoral Commission
b. Full Address A-1014 Canberra, West Block Offices, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
c. Telephone +61 (02) 6271 4411
d. Facsimile +61 (02) 6271 4558
e. Email info[at]aec.gov.au
f. Website Address www.aec.gov.au
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections English
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:35:52 UTC
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total:
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:35:52 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:35:52 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
f. A Governor General appointed by the Monarch
Comments: The Head of State is a Monarch, who is resident in the UK. The Head of State is represented by the Governor-General who is resident in Australia. The Governor-General is appointed by the Monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Art.2
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
d. Leader of the party which forms the government becomes Head of Government
Comments: Following the legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or coalition is usually appointed Prime Minister by the Governor General while being asked to form a government.
Source: Constitution, Ch 1., Art.61 and 62.
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 11:15:17 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
b. No
Source: Constitution, Ch. 1, Art.1.
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:09:45 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Art 1.
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:15:20 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
b. Alternative Vote
Source: Constitution, Art.24 Electoral Law, Art. 48 and 274
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
f. Single Non-Transferable Vote
Source: Constitution, Art. 7 Electoral Act (1918), Section 273
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
h. Not applicable
Source: Electoral Act section 273 (8)
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jul 2001 09:47:45 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Under the Australian Constitution, a nexus exists so that the number of the members in the House of Representatives shall be, as nearly as practicable, twice the number of senators. The number of members chosen in the several States shall be in proportion to the respective members of their people.
Source: Constitution I, part III, art.24 Electoral Act part IV
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
c. Regional or provincial level
Comments: Under the Constitution, each state of the Australian federation, regardless of its population, has an equal number of Senators. This weighting of parliamentary representation in favour of less populous states was designed to ensure that their views were not neglected. The Senate currently consists of 76 Senators, twelve from each of the six states elected by a system of proportional representation for a period of six years. There are also two from each of the mainland territories, elected by proportional representation for the term of the House of Representatives. A system of rotation, however, ensures that half the Senate retires every three years.
Source: Constitution chapter I, part II, art.7 Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, section 40, 42, 43
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Constitution, Art.24 Electoral Act, Section 48
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na
Source: Constitution, Art.24 Electoral Act, Section 48
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Art. 7-8.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 15:33:32 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable Na
Comments: There are no special constituencies or seats reserved in the Senate.
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Part 2, Art. 7-8.
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:21:38 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Comments: There is no legal threshold that candidates or parties must acquire to be admitted to the count. An effective threshold is provided by the electoral system: A candidate is elected if he/she gains an absolute majority or 50% + 1 vote. If none of the candidates in a division obtains an absolute majority of the first preference votes, a second round of counting is held. At this point, the candidate with the least number of votes is eliminated and the votes which he/she obtained in the first round are redistributed among the remaining candidates on the basis of the electors' second choices. This procedure is repeated until such time as one of the candidates obtains an absolute majority.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act (1918), Section 274.
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
a. No minimum
Comments: There is no legally imposed minimum that parties must gain to be admitted to the count. Candidates must obtain a droop quota within the state to be elected.
Source: Electoral Act, Section 273
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Comments: A candidate is elected if he/she gains an absolute majority or 50% + 1 vote. If none of the candidates in a division obtains an absolute majority of the first preference votes, a second round of counting is held. At this point, the candidate with the least number of votes is eliminated and the votes which he/she obtained in the first round are redistributed among the remaining candidates on the basis of the electors' second choices. This procedure is repeated until such time as one of the candidates obtains an absolute majority.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 274
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
a. No minimum
Comments: Candidates must obtain a droop quota within the state to be elected.
Source: Electoral Act, Section 273.
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 10:18:52 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
c. On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)
Comments: b.)The House of Representatives has a maximum term of 3 years, but can be dissolved by the Governor General before the term expires, usually on the advice of the Prime Minister. After the House is dissolved the Governor-General issues writs for new elections. c.)Polling day is always on a Saturday.
Source: Constitution, Part 3, Art.28. Commonwealth Electoral Act 158
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Senators are elected for six-year terms, half of them being elected every three years. This system of rotation does not apply to the four Senators from the two territories who serve the same term of office as that of the Members of the House of Representatives, normally three years. If the whole Senate is dissolved under Section 57 of the Constitution because of a deadlock between the two Houses of Parliament, terms of the newly elected Senators are decreed to have commenced on the presiding 1st of July, and the Senate itself divides the Senators for each State into two classes: those who will have 3 year terms and those who will have 6 year terms. A standard half-Senate election must take place in the year preceding the expiry of the Senators' terms.
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Part 2, Art.7.
Last updated: 2007-06-28 22:02:58 UTC
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
d. Regulations or administrative rules
Comments: Some electoral issues are covered in the Constitution and there are also regulations and administrative rules made under the Electoral Act. The conduct of elections and the behaviour of the EMB may also be governed by other legislation such as the Privacy Act.
Source: Constitution Electoral Act 1918
Last updated: 2007-10-22 14:25:56 UTC
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
d. Referendums
Source: Electoral Law (1918)
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 15:48:43 GMT
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
b. Voting is compulsory and regulated in the electoral law
Comments: Voting has been compulsory since 1912 and the enforcement is strict with sanctions such as fines if the non-voter can not provide a legitimate reason for his/her abstention.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, Section 245; and International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2006-11-17 11:05:35 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Brien Hallett
b. Job Title: Assistant Commissioner, Public Awareness Media and Research
c. Organisation: Australian Electoral Commission
d. Contact Address: Post Office Box 6172 Kingston 2604 ACT Australia
e. Telephone: +61 2 6271 4411
f. Facsimile: +61 2 6271 4558
g. Email: brien.hallett@aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:14:44 UTC
ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
d. No government newspaper: competition between two or more major private newspapers
Comments: Majority of Australian print media is held by two large companies.
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:18:18 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Source: Australian Communications Authority (ACA) www.aca.gov.au
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:22:12 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:24:22 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a
Comments: Freedom of Information Act 1982: State and Territory Legislation can also apply depending on information sought.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. a
Comments:
Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation Act 1983 www.abc.net.au, Special Broadcasting Services Act.
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:35:23 UTC
ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
a. Over 60%
Source: DCITA website ABC / SBS TV www.dcita.gov.au
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
a. Over 60 %
Comments: Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) & Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) radio penetration rates as at 30 June 2001.
Source: Dept of Communication, Information, Technology and the Arts (DCITA) website.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
a. Public radio
Comments: c. 1; f. 2; a. 3; d. 4; e. 5. We rated the following media at a national level that citizens most rely on as a source of information. Our response was based on information provided by the Australian Government's Communication Unit and the Department of Communications, Information, Technology and the Arts who have responsibility in this area.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a
Comments: No such law as such. The ABC Act 1983 (section 78): power of Minister to give directions to Corporation in the national interest. The ABC Act guarantees editorial independence of ABCs programs. The ABC follows a Code of Practice. SBS also follows a Code of Practice with language groups endeavouring to be responsive to the needs and expectations of community audiences whilst remaining impartial and objective. SBS follows the Code of Ethics of the Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance SBS Act (section 2.4.1).
Source: http://www.sbs.com.au/sbscorporate/index.html?id=1065 www.abc.net.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. B
Source: www.aba.gov.au
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
b. Independent regulator
Comments: Australian Communications Authority is the government established regulator.
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:36:32 UTC
ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
b. Private companies
d. Foreigners
Comments: Licences to political parties is unclear on DCITA website. Foreigners are currently not able to hold more than 15% of commercial broadcasting licences. There are minimal restrictions and references to foreign ownership or control of commercial radio stations. For print [Foreign Acquisitions & Takeover Act 1975] limit for national or metro daily is 25% - 30% aggregate.
Source: www.dcita.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
a. a
Comments: Possible breach of Broadcasting Services Act, but prosecutions are rare.
Source: www.aba.gov.au
Last updated: 2005-05-09 12:38:39 UTC
ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
b. No
Comments: Last (and most notable) case was in the 1950s for two journalists jailed for contempt of Parliament.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
a. Law
Comments: Australian Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 . Section 329 (1) The Federal Parliament has determined that the Electoral Act should NOT regulate the content of political messages contained in electoral advertising, rather, the intent of the Electoral Act is to ensure electors are informed about the source of political advertising, and to ensure that political advertising does not mislead or deceive electors about the way in which a vote must be cast. Accordingly, the AEC has no role or responsibility in deciding whether political messages published or broadcast in relation to a federal election are true or untrue. However, the AEC does have a role in ensuring, to the extent possible, that electoral advertisements are properly authorised so that electors can know who is responsible for the statements contained in them.
Source: AEC's Electoral Backgrounder No 15 Electoral Advertising and www.aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME25 Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
b. Voluntary regulator (e.g. media council, journalists' ethics committee)
Comments: Federation of TV networks reviews election advertisements prior to broadcast by commercial tv stations for the purpose of ** classifying the ad under the Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice; ** ensuring the ads include the authorisation tag required by the Broadcasting Services Act (Clause 4 of Part 2 of Schedule 2); ** protecting broadcasters from liability for publishing defamatory material. Common law of Defamation: Schedule 2 of the Broadcasting Services Act 1922, administered by the Australian Broadcasting Authority (Media Blackout).
Source: AEC's Electoral Backgrounder No 15 Electoral Advertising and www.aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME26 What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
d. Other (specify)
Comments: Only responsibility of the AEC is to ensure that political ads must be authorised and must not mislead or deceive electors about way in which a vote must be cast. No "truth in advertising" provision in legislation.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME27 Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
a. Yes
Comments: This is mainly to check that details and messages from the AEC and election processes are being communicated clearly, effectively to all areas and correctly. Also for issues management if the AEC needs to respond to criticism.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 11:43:57 UTC
ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take
c. Other (specify)
Comments: Penalty of no more than $1,000 (individuals) or $5,000 (corporation) for no authorisation of an advertisement (Section 328 of the Act). If there is no heading to electoral advertising = penalty of 5 x $110 penalty units.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME29 Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
b. No
Comments: This is completely up to the discretion of the editor or media outlet itself. No one has a RIGHT.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME30 What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
a. Criminal prosecution
Comments: Defamation law in Australia is currently constituted by a combination of common law and State and Territory statutes. Note this is generally a civil rather than a criminal action in the courts.
Source: The Attorney General's Department www.ag.gov.au
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections?
Please send us a copy.
b. No
Comments: This is self-regulated by the media outlets directly in the form of Code of Conducts developed by journalists' union.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
b. Government owned
Comments: In general, most media don't provide free advertising as they are not obliged to under legislation (as a 'right' or as a requirement). However, our public broadcaster (The Australian Broadcasting Corporation) is required to provide major political parties contesting the election with a small amount of air time for public announcements. Naturally, if privately owned broadcasters wish to provide free air time, they may do so, but in practice this is rare.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
b. Government owned
Comments: In general, most media don't provide free advertising as they are not obliged to under legislation (as a 'right' or as a requirement). However, our public broadcaster (The Australian Broadcasting Corporation) is required to provide major political parties contesting the election with a small amount of air time for public announcements. Naturally, if privately owned broadcasters wish to provide free air time, they may do so, but in practice this is rare.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
d. Based on mixture of principles (specify)
Comments: To qualify for time on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (which does not usually run advertisements) the two major political parties have equal time, and minor parties or independents who won a significant proportion of the vote (ie a seat) at last election get a proportion of that time.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 11:57:02 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising but but expenses must be disclosed.
Source: Michelle Moss, Australian Election Commission
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME39 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Refer #24. Re privately owned media, this is up to the discretion of media outlets themselves.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 11:59:43 UTC
ME40 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Refer #24. Re privately owned media, this is up to the discretion of media outlets themselves.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:00:22 UTC
ME41 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspaper provide individual candidates (legislative) with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Refer #24. Re privately owned media, this is up to the discretion of media outlets themselves.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:00:36 UTC
ME42 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
h. Not applicable
Comments: Refer #24: and for privately owned media, this is up to the discretion of media outlets themselves.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:12:27 UTC
ME43 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Although this is up to the discretion of media outlets. ABC Act 1983: provider of independent national broadcasting Service. The ABC shall not broadcast advertisements (Section 31.1). The ABC may determine to what extent and in what manner political matter or controversial matter will be broadcast (Section 79A.1). The government owned Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) will not broadcast political matter (ie. matter that promotes a registered political party or lobbies for a change in legislation (SBS Code of Practice 5.1).
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME44 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Although this is up to the discretion of media outlets. ABC Act 1983: provider of independent national broadcasting Service. The ABC shall not broadcast advertisements (Section 31.1). The ABC may determine to what extent and in what manner political matter or controversial matter will be broadcast (Section 79A.1). The government owned Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) will not broadcast political matter (ie. matter that promotes a registered political party or lobbies for a change in legislation (SBS Code of Practice 5.1).
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME45 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Comments: Although this is up to the discretion of media outlets. ABC Act 1983: provider of independent national broadcasting Service. The ABC shall not broadcast advertisements (Section 31.1). The ABC may determine to what extent and in what manner political matter or controversial matter will be broadcast (Section 79A.1). The government owned Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) will not broadcast political matter (ie. matter that promotes a registered political party or lobbies for a change in legislation (SBS Code of Practice 5.1).
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME46 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
g. Not regulated: based only on the amount the candidate wishes to spend
Comments: This is up to the discretion of the media outlet or agency.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:05:37 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
a. ....... Australian Electoral Commission Act 1918 FAD. Part XX, Division 1 to Division 5A outlines the governing guidelines and laws related to this.
Source: www.aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:08:05 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
b. The law does not specify any limits (X)
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:09:29 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Comments: As an independent and impartial body, the AEC cannot comment on this.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:09:58 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
c. No
Comments: Debates between the 2 major parties are occasionally conducted but are not required. Participation by individual candidates and smaller parties is rare.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:10:31 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
Comments: There are no requirements.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:10:58 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
g. Not applicable
Comments: There is an election advertising blackout on all electronic media from midnight on the Wednesday before polling to the end of polling on the Saturday.
Source: Michelle Moss, Australian Election Commission
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:01:48 UTC
ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
b. Outside the polling station
Comments: Electoral code prohibits canvassing (including polling) 6 metres from the entrance and exit of a polling place.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:13:37 UTC
ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
d. Other (specify)
Comments: At the discretion of those carrying out the exit poll.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:14:14 UTC
ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
d. Other (specify)
Comments: In Australian, results can be reported as soon as available, even if polling is still underway in other parts of the country due to time differences.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:15:42 UTC
ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
a. Yes
Comments: No laws exist to stop this from occurring.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:16:06 UTC
ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
a. A media department
c. A commissioner with responsibility for media work
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:16:36 UTC
ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:17:40 UTC
ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
a. Media packs/press kits
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
d. Pre-recorded radio or TV slots
e. Web site
g. Other (specify)
Comments: The AEC also provides publications such as information files and electoral backgrounders to any media interested.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:18:26 UTC
ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
a. Yes
Comments: Media briefings occur at election time.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:18:52 UTC
ME71 Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
b. Government owned
Comments: In 2004 Federal Election free broadcast for information relating to one issue was provided as a community service announcement. This is not usual and is not an ongoing arrangement as it is up to the discretion of the media outlet or agency direct.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:19:47 UTC
ME72 Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Comments: In 2004 Federal Election free broadcast for information relating to one issue was provided as a community service announcement. This is not usual and is not an ongoing arrangement as it is up to the discretion of the media outlet or agency direct.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:20:18 UTC
ME73 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Comments: In 2004 Federal Election free broadcast for information relating to one issue was provided as a community service announcement. This is not usual and is not an ongoing arrangement as it is up to the discretion of the media outlet or agency direct.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:20:44 UTC
ME74 Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:21:12 UTC
ME75 Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:21:34 UTC
ME76 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:21:49 UTC
ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
a. It consults the media about the usefulness of materials provided to them by the EMB.
b. It consults the media about the usefulness of the EMBâs website.
c. It encourages the media to subscribe to a media page in the EMBâs website in order to receive regular updates.
d. It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:22:38 UTC
ME78 Which of the following do you judge to be significant barriers to the EMB in communicating its message to the media?
c. Cost of paid advertising limiting dissemination of voter education messages
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:23:08 UTC
ME79 Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB’s ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?
b. Quite effective
Comments: The AEC could be more effective with more advertising coverage (due to diversity of media outlets spread over large landmass with small population) and more ongoing media community education between elections. It could also be more effective with more key media spokespersons in the organisation. Steps have been taken to refocus the community education program conducted between elections.
Last updated: 2005-05-12 12:24:01 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
f. Other
Comments: a)If the political party is not a parliamentary party (that is, it does not have a member of the party as a member in federal parliament), it must have at least 500 members who are entitled to enrolment on the Commonwealth Electoral roll. Registration is not compulsory. A party can still participate in the electoral process, but does not qualify for the rights and entitlements that registration confers. If the party has not registered for the elections, the name of the party will not be put on the ballot paper, only the names of the candidates. (f)Be established on the basis of a written constitution; and have as one of its objects or activities to endorse candidates to contest elections for the House of Representatives or Senate.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 126.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
f. Other
Comments: a)If the political party is not a parliamentary party (that is, it does not have a member of the party as a member in federal parliament), it must have at least 500 members who are entitled to enrolment on the Commonwealth Electoral roll. Registration is not compulsory. A party can still participate in the electoral process, but does not qualify for the rights and entitlements that registration confers. If the party has not registered for the elections, the name of the party will not be put on the ballot paper, only the names of the candidates. (f)Be established on the basis of a written constitution; and have as one of its objects or activities to endorse candidates to contest elections for the House of Representatives or Senate.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 126.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: (Candidate must be enrolled or entitled to be enrolled.) Constitution Section 44 is held to prohibit dual citizens from standing for Parliament.
Source: Constitution, Part 3, Art.34 and 44.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:39:15 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: (Candidate must be enrolled or entitled to be enrolled.) Constitution Section 44 is held to prohibit dual citizens from standing for Parliament.
Source: Constitution, Part 3, Art. 8, 34 and 44.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:44:52 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
k. Not applicable
Source: Constitution, Ch.1, Art.1.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:46:24 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
b. Detention
c. Criminal record
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments: Any person who: (i) is under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power, or is a subject or a citizen or entitled to the rights or privileges of a subject or a citizen of a foreign power; or (ii) is attainted of treason, or has been convicted and is under sentence, or subject to be sentenced, for any offence punishable under the law of the Commonwealth or of a State by imprisonment for one year or longer; or (iii) is an undischarged bankrupt or insolvent; or (iv) holds any office of profit under the Crown, or any pension payable during the pleasure of the Crown out of any of the revenues of the Commonwealth; or (v) has any direct or indirect pecuniary interest in any agreement with the Public Service of the Commonwealth otherwise than as a member and in common with the other members of an incorporated company consisting of more than twenty-five persons;
Source: Constitution, Section 44 Candidates must sign a declaration that they are not disqualified under section 44 of the Constitution.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
o. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Ch. 1, Art.1.
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 07:15:52 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
d. In legislative elections (Chamber 2)
Comments:
Source: The AEC (www.aec.gov.au/pubs/electoral%5Fsystems.htm)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Signature requirement: 50 Deposit requirement: US$185 The deposit will be refunded if the candidate's total number of first preference votes is at least four percent of the formal first preference votes for that division. The deposit is also refunded if the candidate is elected.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 s 166 and 170
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a. 50 signatures of electors entitled to vote for the relevant election b. Deposit requirement: AUD$700 The deposit will be refunded if the candidate's total number of first preference votes is at least four percent of the formal first preference votes for that State/Territory. The deposit is also refunded if the candidate is elected.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act s166 and 170
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:35:47 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
e. Not Applicable
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
Comments: Registered political parties receive direct public funding at each election, which is unspecified and may be used to whatever the party wishes. The payment is based on the number of votes received in the election. Parties will receive payment only where their candidates win at least 4 % of the formal first preference votes in each electorate contested. They receive a fixed amount per vote, currently AUD 1.84.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 296 and 297.
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:37:12 GMT
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
a. As related to the election period only
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
e. Not Applicable
Comments: e.) Parties only recieve direct public funding.
Source: Kate Sullivan
Last updated: Tue, 28 Aug 2001 12:29:04 GMT
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
b. Based on result of previous election
Comments: Parties will receive payment only where their candidates win at least 4% of the formal first preference vote in each electorate contested For Senate groups, it is sufficient if the group as a whole wins at least 4% of the votes.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 296 and 297.
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 09:00:27 GMT
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
c. Unspecified
Source: Kate Sullivan
Last updated: Tue, 28 Aug 2001 12:30:30 GMT
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 304 and 305.
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 09:03:44 GMT
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:12:50 UTC
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: Following the end of the financial year the Agent of each registered political party or State branch is required to complete an Annual Return disclosing the totals of the partyâs receipts, payments and debts. More detailed disclosure is required of persons or organisations for whom receipts or debts aggregate to $1,500 or more. With receipts it is only necessary to aggregate individual transactions of $500 or more. Associated entities of political parties are required to lodge with the AEC annual disclosure Returns that are virtually identical in their scope and detail to that of parties. (An associated entity is an organisation which is either controlled by, or operates wholly or mainly for the benefit of, one or more registered political parties.) Parties should provide the AEC with contact details for all associated entities of the party.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Part XX
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:37:56 GMT
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of candidate contributions received
b. Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Source: Kate Sullivan
Last updated: Tue, 28 Aug 2001 12:35:13 GMT
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
n. Random listing (lottery)
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Comments: Need an option for ordinal ballot
Source: Kate Sullivan
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:55:23 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
n. Random listing (lottery)
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Comments: Need an answer for ordinal
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
s. Not Applicable
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Comments: The counting of the votes, known as the scrutiny, begins on polling day as soon as the last voter, who was in the polling place when the doors closed at 6.00pm, has voted. Only ordinary votes are counted on election night. The first preference results are tabulated and phoned through to the Divisional Returning Officer (DRO), along with the number of informal votes.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 265
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 09:47:25 GMT
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)
f. Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
l. Counted by hand
m. Sorted by party list
n. Transfer ballots from party/candidate with least support to second preference
o. Data fed into computer for calculation
r. Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Source: Kate Sullivan Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au, mailcontact and interview in Stockholm 27/6-01.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
c. District level
Comments: The first results are tabulated and phoned through to the Divisional Returning Offcier (DRO), along with the number of informal votes. The DRO enters the results for each polling place into the AEC's national computerised Election Night System. These results are transmitted to the National Tally Room (NTR) in Canberra where they are placed on the National Tally Board and are electronically fed to the media. Declaration envelopes containing absent, pre-poll, postal and provisional votes are checked by divisional staff after polling day before they are opened and admitted into the count.
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
b. District level
Source: Constitution section 24
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 14:56:45 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
b. By telephone
f. By computer
Comments: (b.) By telephone from the polling station to the Divisional Returning Officer. (f.) By computer link-existing open network from each Divisional Officer through AEC's computer network to the National tally room in Canberra.
Source: Michael Maley, Director, Research and International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: Thu, 04 Jul 2002 13:41:51 GMT
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
c. Counterfoils of used ballots
d. Voter rolls
e. Tendered ballots
f. Certificate of result
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au, mailcontact and interview in Stockholm 27/6-01.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
b. Tamper proof bags
c. Signatures on sealed envelopes
e. Accompanied by election officials
Source: Kate Sullivan
Last updated: Tue, 15 Aug 2000 09:30:00 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
b. Always recounted
d. By request
Comments: A recheck of the initial tally is undertaken, and recounts can also be requested.
Source: Electoral Act, Art. 279
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Source: Electoral Act, Art.279
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 07:59:19 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
b. An individual candidate
c. Election officials
Comments: Recounts only occur when the result of an election is very close, when a candidate makes a request in writing (through a District provisional officer/Australian electoral officers (AEO) is not obliged to conduct a recount automatically on the request of a candidate), or when the Electoral Commissioner or AEO directs one.
Source: AEC Electoral Pocket Book p.55 Electoral Act art.279
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
a. National Election Management body
Comments: The Divisional Returning Officer in the presence of any scrutineers.
Source: Electoral Act, Section 279
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 08:00:02 GMT
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au, mailcontact and interview in Stockholm 27/6-01.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: X
Comments: hours
Source: Electoral Act sec.159
Last updated: Mon, 13 May 2002 13:45:19 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Comments: The Electoral Commission must endorse and return the writ to the Governor-General specifying the elected candidates. Australian Electoral Officers in each State must do the same with the Senate writs.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act Part XiX
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:11 UTC
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: Writs must be returned within 100 days of issue, usually 40 to 50 days after polling days.
Source: Commonwealth Electoral Act 159
Last updated: Tue, 02 Jul 2002 15:05:29 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
h. Political parties/ candidates
i. Media
Comments: Under legislation, the AEC must conduct election education campaigns. There are continually election education activities. Political parties and the media also conducting election education as part of their election activities.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 7
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:28:14 GMT
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
a. Continuously
Comments: It is continuous, but more intensive during elections.
Source: The AEC (www.aec.gov.au/electoral_education/introduction.htm)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:42 UTC
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
b. Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
e. Yes, conducted by the Government
Comments: The Australian Electoral Commission operates Electoral Education Centres (EECs) in Canberra and Melbourne, operates an Adelaide EEC in partnership with the South Australian State Electoral Office, and provides support for the Western Australian Electoral Commissionâs Perth EEC. In addition, each State and Territory is responsible for their own education which may or may not include a civics component. The Department of Immigration and Multicutural Affairs implements the Australian Citizenship Act and conducts citizenship education.
Source: The AEC,www.aec.gov.au/electoral_education/education_centres/main.htm)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:42 UTC
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
c. Simulation exercises
f. Mail-outs
g. Internet
h. Other
Comments: (h)(h)Information briefings, media interviews (AEC staff interviewed), publications, national telephone enquiry service, a telephone interpreting service, internet website.
Source: The AEC (www.aec.gov.au/electoral_education/education_centres/main.htm)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:42 UTC
VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
f. Mail-outs
g. Internet
h. Handouts (printed material)
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au, mailcontact and interview in Stockholm 27/6-01.
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:06:42 UTC
VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
a. Disabled
b. Young people/ first time voters
d. Ethnic minorities
e. Indigenous groups
Source: Michael Bergmann, Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.bergmann(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: Thu, 04 Jul 2002 13:07:44 GMT
Voting Operations
VO03 Where can electors vote?
b. At any polling station in the same voting district
e. At mobile polling stations
f. By mail
i. By tendered ballot
j. Other
Comments: Polling day is always on a Saturday and voting takes place between the hours of 8.00am and 6.00pm. Most people vote by an ordinary vote, that is a vote cast in the elector's enrolled division on polling day. (j) A number of voting stations in each state/territory can take ballots for all districts in the state/territory.
Source: Electoral Act, Section 183 and 222.
Last updated: 2007-10-08 07:15:50 UTC
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Comments: At the 2001 federal election there were 99 overseas posts at which Australians could vote and a total of 46 307 votes were cast overseas.
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-10-08 07:15:50 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
b. Consulates
e. By mail
Comments: (a.)Some embassies. At the 1996 federal election there were 99 overseas posts at which Australians could vote and a total of 46 307 votes were cast overseas.
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-10-08 07:15:50 UTC
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: X
Last updated: 2007-10-08 07:14:48 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Source: Michael Maley, Director, International Services,Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.maley(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: 2007-01-09 16:14:34 UTC
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 2
b. The largest polling station: 20
Last updated: 2007-10-08 07:14:48 UTC
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Comments: If a person is only 17 years old and an Australian citizen then they may provisionally enrol, but will not be able to vote unless he/she has turned 18 by polling day.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 91(1)(a)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 15:52:18 UTC
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
b. Period of Residence
Comments: (a)Any Australian Citizen and any person who was a British subject on a Commonwealth electoral roll as at 25 January 1984. (British subjects not on the roll as at that date are not eligible to enrol even if they were resident in Australia at that time) (b)Residence in a divsion for at least one month. There are special enrolment provisions for people who are itinerants, Australian resident oversees, Australians living in Antartica.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 93 (7)
Last updated: 2007-01-09 15:52:18 UTC
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
a. Criminal Incarceration
b. Previous Conviction
d. Mental disability
Comments: Electoral Act (1918) Section 93: (7) A person who is: (a) within the meaning of the Migration Act 1958, the holder of a temporary visa; or (b) an unlawful non-citizen under that Act; is not entitled to enrolment under Part VIII. (8) A person who: (a) by reason of being of unsound mind, is incapable of understanding the nature and significance of enrolment and voting; or (c) has been convicted of treason or treachery and has not been pardoned; is not entitled to have his or her name placed on or retained on any Roll or to vote at any Senate election or House of Representatives election. (8AA) A person who is serving a sentence of imprisonment for an offence against the law of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory is not entitled to vote at any Senate election or House of Representatives election. Note: For the definition of sentence of imprisonment, see subsection 4(1A).
Source: Electoral Act (1918) Section 93
Last updated: 2007-01-09 15:52:18 UTC
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Australian Electoral Commission.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Part 6.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:19:49 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Comments: b. permanent voters list.
Source: Electoral Act (1918), Section 81.
Last updated: Wed, 29 May 2002 16:21:28 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
a. Continuously
Comments: In 1997, an address register was created within the roll management system (RMANS). Following its introduction, divisional staff are now required to maintain details of individual addresses and boundary information relating to localities and electoral areas. In doing this work, staff liaise with local councils, follow up information provided by electors, and verify certain address details in the field. The address details held in RMANS are subject to continous update to record new development, street changes, and renumbering of rural roads.
Source: Michael Bergmann, Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), michael.bergmann(a)aec.gov.au
Last updated: Thu, 04 Jul 2002 13:10:37 GMT
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
c. Links for applications for government services
d. Registration by mail
e. Appearance by voter at registration office
f. Door-to-door registration campaign
g. Data matching with other agencies information
h. Mobile election registrar
i. Internet registration
Comments: i. Internet registration: voter registration forms are available online, but must be printed out and either faxed or posted to the AEC. All changes to the register can only be made on receipt of signed notifcation from the individual elector.
Source: Michael Bergmann
Last updated: 2007-01-09 15:52:18 UTC
20/05/2008 07:18
