Early voting for the federal election is now open in a number of sites across Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong.
Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) electoral commissioner Tom Rogers said everyone should try to vote on election day on Saturday, May 21.
“Australian elections are in-person events – once every three years the country comes together in a transparent and secure environment to have their say,” he said.
“If you can vote on election day, then that’s what you should do.
“However, if your circumstances might prevent you from doing that then you need to think about the early voting options available, and vote according to your circumstances.”
Mr Rogers said a number of Covid-safe practices will be in place at voting centres.
“Australians have been living with Covid for more than two years now,” he said.
“For most people you’re visiting the shops regularly, attending events or taking public transport.
“Voting centres will have more protections in place than most areas of society.”
Mr Rogers said everyone should treat AEC voting centre employees with respect during their vote.
“We employ more than 100,000 everyday Australians – parents, grandparents, neighbours, work colleagues – who do an important job for Australian democracy,” he said.
“We simply ask that Australians be patient while waiting to cast their vote and maybe give our staff a smile and a thank you on the way through.
“Not everyone will be happy if there is a queue or agree with the Covid safety measures in place, but our temporary staff are simply carrying out instructions and doing their job to the best of their ability.”
Early voting centres include the Finnish Society of Melbourne in Altona and the 10th Footscray Scout Hall in West Footscray.
Details: www.aec.gov.au/election
