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Australian Electoral Commission
This electoral cycle, federal boundary redistributions are occurring in New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
A redistribution is an independent, highly consultative and data-driven process that runs over the course of approximately one year. Once completed, any new names and boundaries apply at the next federal election.
Go to the dedicated redistributions website to view public input, proposals and final boundaries for each redistribution when they’re available.
The preferential voting system used for the House of Representatives means that multiple counts of ballot papers occur to determine who has acquired an absolute majority of the total votes (more than 50% of formal votes). It is a similar process for the Senate however, each Senate contest will elect multiple representatives where multiple counts of ballot papers occur to determine which candidates have achieved the required quota of formal votes to be elected.
During the counting process, votes are transferred between candidates or parties according to the preferences marked by voters. In the House for example, if your first preference of candidate isn’t elected, your vote moves to your next preference and so on.
The AEC runs federal elections and referendums only. The next federal election is due to occur sometime between now and mid-May 2025 – exactly when that happens is a decision of the Government.
It’s a busy election calendar coming up though – there is the NSW local government elections in September, VIC local government elections, an ACT election and a QLD state election all in October, and the WA state election in March. We don’t run them all. Each state and territory have their own electoral management body responsible for state or territory and local government elections in their jurisdiction.
The AEC doesn't get advanced notice of election timing.
No one is rubbing out your vote.
If your first preference doesn't get enough votes, your vote is not wasted.
Claims that pre-election media and advertising by political parties is illegal are false.
Every federal election and referendum we need around 100,000 temporary staff. Earn money and get a valuable experience.
Join our team delivering world-class elections. Exciting professional and entry level jobs with great working conditions and teammates on offer.
Be part of a passionate and committed team that delivers world-class electoral services and the AEC's vital corporate work.
Federal elections must be held at least once in every three years on a date determined by the Governor General, upon request by the government.
To be eligible to enrol to vote from overseas, you must be an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older, and intend to return to Australia within six years.
You can upload, fax, or post your signed form or letter to the AEC.
You do not need to notify the AEC when a relative or friend has died as this information is provided to the AEC.
The AEC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.