As the federal election on May 3rd approaches, Australians are reminded of their civic duty to cast their vote—a cornerstone of democracy in the country.
While most citizens are aware of the $20 fine for not voting, many may not realise the severe consequences that come with attempting another little-known voting violation. Let’s delve into the details of what’s at stake if you don’t follow the rules at the polls.
The cost of not casting your vote
In Australia, voting isn’t just a right; it’s a legal obligation. Every Australian citizen over the age of 18 is required to enrol and vote in federal elections.
If you fail to do so without a valid excuse, you’ll be hit with a $20 administrative penalty. This might seem like a small price to pay for some, but it’s a reminder that every vote counts and that there’s a collective responsibility to participate in the electoral process.
If you receive a letter from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) for not voting, you’ll have the opportunity to explain yourself.
Perhaps you were ill, or an unforeseen event like a natural disaster prevented you from reaching the polls. If your reason is deemed ‘valid and sufficient’ by the Divisional Returning Officer (DRO), you may be excused from the fine. But if not, you’ll need to pay up.
Jail time for not voting?
Thankfully, the answer is no. While failing to vote is taken seriously in Australia, it won’t land you behind bars.
However, don’t take this as an invitation to disregard your voting responsibilities. After all, voting is a crucial responsibility of every citizen.
Who’s off the hook?
It’s important to note that while voting is compulsory, there are provisions for those who can’t make it to the polling place on election day.
You can apply for a postal vote or take advantage of early voting, which starts two weeks before the election.
This ensures that everyone has the chance to have their say, even if they’re out of town or have other commitments on May 3rd.
The harsh reality of multiple voting
Now, for those who might consider casting more than one vote, be warned: the penalties are far more severe than a mere $20 fine, as it is a serious voting violation.
Voting multiple times is a criminal offence under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 and the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984.
If caught and convicted, you could face fines of up to 60 penalty units, which translates to a whopping $19,800, up to 12 months in prison, or both.
After the election, the AEC will meticulously scan voter lists from polling places nationwide to detect any instances of double voting.
If they suspect foul play, they’ll seek an explanation. If they find evidence of multiple votes, the matter could be escalated to the Australian Federal Police and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.
A final word of caution
As we gear up for the election, it’s crucial to remember the importance of voting correctly. Not only is it a privilege to have a say in the country’s future, but it’s also a legal requirement that comes with real consequences if not taken seriously.
So, before you head to the polls, make sure you’re informed about the rules and ready to participate in this vital democratic process.
We encourage all eligible Australians to exercise their right to vote responsibly. Have you ever encountered any issues while voting, or do you have questions about the process? Share your experiences and queries in the comments below, and let’s ensure everyone is ready for election day.
