Fact sheet - Compulsory voting
Why is it compulsory to enrol?
In Australia, the law requires every Australian citizen aged 18 or older to enrol to vote. Enrolling gives you the right to vote, and with that right comes the responsibility to help shape how the ACT and the country are run. Voting is one way you can contribute, but you can't vote if you're not enrolled.
What is compulsory voting?
All Australian citizens aged 18 or older are required by law to vote. If an enrolled citizen does not vote and cannot provide a valid reason, they will face a penalty. In the ACT, this penalty is $20. If the penalty isn't paid, the matter can be taken to court.
History in Australia
Compulsory voting is a unique part of Australian political culture. It was first suggested by Alfred Deakin in the early 1900s and was introduced for federal elections in 1924 after a private member's bill was passed. Compulsory enrolment for federal elections began in 1911.
Introduction of compulsory enrolment and voting laws in Australia.
| Jurisdiction | Compulsory enrolment | Compulsory voting |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | 1911 | 1924 |
| Queensland | 1914 | 1914 |
| Victoria | 1923 | 1926 |
| New South Wales | 1921 | 1928 |
| South Australia | 2009 | 1942 |
| Tasmania | 1930 | 1928 |
| Western Australia | 1919 | 1936 |
In Australia, voting is considered a civic duty, similar to other responsibilities like paying taxes, attending school, and serving on a jury. Compulsory voting ensures that parliaments better represent the "will of the people." This system means that governments need to consider the views of all voters when making decisions and creating policies. It also allows candidates to focus their campaigns on important issues, rather than just trying to get people to show up and vote.