Settlement Guide: How to vote in Australia?

Voting 1 at Australian Federal Election Source: Getty Images

1. All Australian citizens over 18 need to register with the Australian Electoral Commission in order vote

Australians go to the polls to vote in the federal election on July 2. Voting is compulsory for all eligible citizens over 18 who have lived at their current address for more than one month.

You’ll need to be enrolled by 8pm 23rd of May with the

AEC

and then turn up to a polling centre on polling day. Here's

how to enrol.

Once registered, they must vote on Election Day to avoid penalties.

Source: Getty Images

2. Once registered, you can be fined if you fail to vote on or before polling day

Even if you’re already enrolled to vote, if you’ve changed your name or address you need to update your details with the

AEC

Source: AAP

3. Many parties will hand out how to vote cards

You should vote for the candidate of your choice and not be misled by material you might receive at the polling place.

Source: Getty Images

4. Candidates are elected by a preferential voting system

You will be given two ballot papers. The green ballot paper is to elect a local candidate for the House of Representatives. While, the white ballot paper is for electing a senator from your own state or territory. In the Senate ballot you can mark your preferences by party above the line, or number your preferred candidates below the line.