The Electoral Commissioner has invited Victorians to have their say on changes to the State’s electoral regulations.
The Commissioner, Warwick Gately said the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) was managing the process for Electoral Regulations 2022 to replace Electoral Regulations 2012, which are due to expire on 21 August.
“This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in contributing to a more inclusive, accessible and modern electoral system,” Mr Gately said.
“Ensuring that the new regulations are accurate, clear, modern and operationally effective is a key focus of the review,” he said.
“The aim of Electoral Regulations 2022 is to ensure that the electoral process is accessible and provides a good experience for Victorians.”
Mr Gately said the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) had provided its submission to DPC and encouraged electors, political parties and candidates to have their say.
He said the VEC had also written to its Electoral Access Advisory Group to alert them to the review.
Releasing information on its review, DPC said the 2022 Regulations were made under the Electoral Act 2002 to facilitate the enrolment of electors to vote in State elections and the conduct of the State elections.
“It is anticipated that the 2022 Regulations will be similar to the Electoral Regulations 2012,” DPC said.
It said the update would ensure the Regulations were accurate, clear, modern, operationally effective, in Plain English, gender neutral, and technology neutral.
The Department said it would also ensure the Regulations made the electoral process accessible and a good experience for all participants.
“The 2022 regulations also require consultation with the Victorian Electoral Commission as well as their agreement to the finalised regulations,” DPC said.
It said all submissions must be made in writing before 5pm on 12 June and could be provided anonymously.
Further information on possible changes to the State’s electoral regulations can be accessed at this PS News link.
