2020 Media Statements

1 December 2020

ERUB ISLAND TSIRC BY-ELECTION CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED, VOTING BEGINS 15 DECEMBER

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said following the close of nominations on Monday, three candidates have nominated to fill the recently vacated Erub Island Division 14 councillor position, Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC).

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the by-election was initiated following a councillor’s resignation, and the decision by the TSIRC to request a by-election to fill the role.

“It is great to see three candidates interested in contesting the important role of representing their local community as a councillor,” he said.

“Following the close of nominations at noon today, the ECQ conducted the ballot paper order draw and the candidates are, in ballot paper order, Isaac GHEE, Jimmy Joe GELA and Bert MATSAYEK.

“The by-election period is from Tuesday 15 December to election day on Saturday 19 December, and the ECQ will provide a number of mobile polling opportunities during this time.”

Mr Vidgen said as determined in the Local Government Act 2009, the voting system is optional preferential voting for divided councils with single member divisions such as TSIRC.

“Optional preferential voting means to make their vote count, electors have the choice to number one, some, or all the boxes on their ballot paper in order of preference,” he said.

“As there are three candidates in this by-election, electors can place the number one next to their preferred candidate, or continue to number some, or all of the three boxes if they wish.

“I remind Erub Island electors that voting is compulsory.”

All TSIRC Division 14 Erub Island by-election information is available on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Check your enrolment at aec.gov.au
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Apply for a postal vote online or download a PDF application form
• Learn more about optional preferential voting

20 November 2020

TORRES STRAIT ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION FOR ERUB ISLAND IN DECEMBER

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) will hold a by-election for Torres Strait Island Regional Council’s (TSIRC) Erub Island/Division 14 following a councillor’s resignation. Mobile polling will be offered between Tuesday 15 December and Saturday 19 December.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act) requires a by-election to be held within 12 weeks of a councillor’s resignation and as the resignation occurred on 9 October, the by-election had to be held by 1 January 2021.

“At the time of the resignation, the council had the option to choose to fill the vacancy through a by-election or through appointment of the runner-up,” he said.

“After consideration, the TSIRC resolved to conduct a by-election to fill the vacancy.”

Mr Vidgen said electors will vote for their new councillor using optional preferential voting, which under the Act, is the designated voting system for divided councils.

“This means electors can number one, some or all of the boxes on their ballot paper to make their vote count.

“There are around 200 electors on Erub Island who need to vote in the by-election, and they can choose to vote at a mobile polling booth or apply for a postal vote.

“Postal vote applications are now open, and mobile polling information will be available on the ECQ’s website following the close of nominations at noon on Monday 30 November.”

Mr Vidgen encourages electors on Erub Island to make sure they’re correctly enrolled before the close of roll for the by-election on Friday 27 November.

“Checking or updating your enrolment online is easy and only takes a few minutes; just go to aec.gov.au to make sure you’re correctly enrolled.

“Anyone interested in standing as a candidate for Division 14 must complete the Department of Local Government online training module, and lodge their nomination on the ECQ website or with the Returning Officer by midday on Monday 30 November.

“Following the close of candidate nominations, the ballot paper order draw is conducted.

“I remind electors that voting is compulsory,” he said.

Election information is available on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au or by calling 1300 881 665.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council by-election timetable | November 2020

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Erub Island is also known as Darnley Island
• Check out the TSIRC by-election page
• Enrol, check or update your enrolment at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about being a councillor on the DLGRMA website
• Do the Mandatory candidate training
• Read ECQ’s media releases at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

16 November 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: DECLARATIONS COMPLETE, WRIT RETURNED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed all declarations for the 2020 State general election are complete and the writ has been returned to the Governor His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey today, Monday 16 November.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said despite having two recounts to complete, all the declarations were finalised within 14 days of election day, which is in line with the 2017 State general election.

“Declaring every electorate in such a timeframe is remarkable considering a record 760,000 postal votes returned, scrutinised and included in the count; this is around half a million more than in 2017,” he said.

“Recounts were also undertaken in Bundaberg and Nicklin where the results were very close.

“The record 597 candidates and 12 political parties also meant there were more complex preference counts, and a more time-consuming counting process.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ’s election teams counted more than 2.9 million votes in total, all within a COVID-safe environment.

“Delivering an election is an extremely demanding logistical exercise and our teams worked long hours to ensure accurate outcomes were delivered in a timely manner,” he said.

“I want to thank the ECQ’s more than 10,300 temporary staff, our permanent staff, and election delivery partners, for all their hard work and dedication in ensuring the election was successfully conducted.

“The writ has now been returned to the Governor, and the ECQ begins the process of compiling the election report detailing the election planning, process and delivery, the statistical returns, and an analysis and evaluation of the event,” Mr Vidgen said.

When complete, the election report will be tabled in Parliament and made available on the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• See the ECQ Commissioner presenting the Governor with the writ on Twitter https://twitter.com/ECQInfo
• Find the 2020 State general election results
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

12 November 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: RECOUNT FOR BUNDABERG AND NICKLIN

The Electoral Commission of Queensland has announced a recount of votes for the electorates of Bundaberg and Nicklin beginning today, 12 November.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said while he had full confidence in the integrity of the count, the margins in both districts are very close and it is prudent to ensure the veracity of the outcome.

“It is in the public interest for all stakeholders to have absolute confidence in the results of the electoral process,” he said.

“The LNP has made a formal request for the recounts and the ECQ has agreed to this request.

“While there is no prescribed recount requirement in Queensland’s Electoral Act 1992, a federal automatic recount is triggered by less than 100 votes.

“Both Bundaberg and Nicklin are under that federal trigger threshold and it is therefore appropriate a recount is conducted.”

Mr Vidgen said election teams in Bundaberg and Nicklin will begin recounting tens of thousands of votes today, with observers and scrutineers present as is the usual practice.

As soon as a result is determined and the usual declaration processes are undertaken, the ECQ will announce the successful candidates on the ECQ’s website and across its social media channels.

END

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• The ECQ’s media statements and election updates are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

For the latest election updates follow the ECQ on Twitter and Facebook.

10 November 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: DECLARATIONS UNDERWAY THANKS TO POSTAL VOTES RETURNED BEFORE DEADLINE

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said declarations for successful candidates around Queensland are underway thanks to most postal votes being returned before the deadline of Tuesday 10 November.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there has been a huge response to promptly mailing back postal votes with more than 753,000 returned and scrutinised.

“The return of such a large number of postal votes has been remarkable, and I commend electors all around Queensland for heeding our message of mailing their vote back to the ECQ before the deadline,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Every vote is important and postal votes are crucial in many electorates where the contest is very close.

“The ECQ will declare as many successful candidates as possible where the outcome on the first preference count is clear, following the inclusion of postal, absent and declaration votes.

“However, often an absolute majority is not reached on the first preference count and a full preference count is required for a declaration to be made.

“Further declarations are expected tomorrow as preference distributions commence after the deadline for return of postal votes today.

“Electorates such as Nicklin, Whitsunday, Currumbin, Bundaberg, and Barron River are all tight contests, meaning a full preference count will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ is keen to declare as many electorates as quickly as possible but accuracy and certainty in the outcome are essential.

“Our counting teams will work late on Tuesday and Wednesday this week to ensure the outcome for outstanding electorates is mathematically certain so declarations can take place,” he said.

All the 2020 State general election declaration and result information is on the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au/results.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Check out the daily election updates and the ECQ’s media statements at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Learn more about Counting the votes and the Counting the votes timeline

3 November 2020

STATE GENERAL ELECTION: GLADSTONE FIRST ELECTORATE DECLARED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) declared the electorate of Gladstone today, with the successful candidate ALP’s Glenn Butcher receiving more than 50 per cent of the vote of all enrolled electors.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Gladstone was the first electorate to be declared in the 2020 State general election and others will follow when the outcome is mathematically certain.

“The first declaration for an election is always a significant moment,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The ECQ has counted around 2.4 million votes and we are still expecting a few hundred thousand postal votes to be returned before the deadline of 6pm on 10 November.

“Those electorates with very close margins will need to go to a full preference count, and this will begin as soon as we have most votes returned.

“The 2017 State general election was fully declared in around two weeks, so the careful process of counting votes to ensure integrity and accuracy of the outcome, takes time.”

Detailed results for Gladstone can be found on the ECQ’s results webpage.

END

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Results for the electorate of Gladstone
• Read the Snapshot – Counting the votes timeline PDF (0.19 MB)

Read the Counting the votes PDF (0.34 MB) fact sheet

3 November 2020

STATE GENERAL ELECTION: COUNTING POSTAL AND ABSENT VOTES UNDERWAY

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said counting continues for the 2020 State general election, with postal votes returning and absent votes being securely transferred to their home electorates.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said this is the time in the counting process that can feel frustrating for all those looking for certainty and declarations.

“Counting of the votes is undertaken methodically and meticulously; it’s a slow and careful process and I understand that can be challenging for those waiting for an outcome,” Mr Vidgen said.

“It is perfectly understandable candidates want to know the voters’ decision, particularly in very tight seats such as Currumbin, Coomera, Burleigh, Bundaberg and Nicklin where just a few per cent can separate candidates.

“However, we still have postal votes coming back to the ECQ with around 70 per cent already returned, and we are finalising the vote exchange where absent and declaration votes are transferred to their home electorate for scrutinising and counting. In some large districts, that process can take one or more days.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ will declare successful candidates when there is absolute certainty about the outcome.

“Successful candidates must achieve 50 per cent plus one of the votes in their electorate and the ECQ must be certain of this before declaring,” Mr Vidgen said.

“In the contests where no one has 50 per cent plus one of first preference votes, then a full preference distribution will need to occur.

“Particularly in seats where there are large number of candidates, the order of preference distribution may not be clear.

“In these cases, the preference distribution may not be able to start until enough votes are returned, around the deadline to return postal votes on 10 November.

“Having said that, every day the ECQ looks at all the count data it has available to ensure it is driving declarations as soon as possible.

“The ECQ will declare successful candidates as quickly as the process allows, to ensure integrity and accuracy in the outcome,” he said.

Mr Vidgen said the Aurukun by-election, which took place in alignment with the 2020 State general election was declared on 2 November.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Read ECQ’s media statements and election updates at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Counting the votes PDF (0.34 MB) fact sheet and the Counting the votes timeline PDF (0.19 MB)
• View the 2020 State general election results
• View the Aurukun by-election results

END

2 November 2020

AURUKUN COUNCIL BY-ELECTION DECLARED; NEW COUNCILLOR ANNOUNCED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced the Aurukun Council by-election has been declared today, 2 November.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Aurukun electors chose Jayden Marrott as the latest member of their Council receiving 75 per cent of the 473 votes cast with a very low informality of only four votes.

“An election for Aurukun Shire Council was called followed a resignation on 20 August.

“Under the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act), the Council could choose to fill the vacancy through a by-election or through appointment of the runner-up and the Aurukun Shire Council resolved to conduct a by-election to fill the vacancy.

“The Act required a by-election to be held within 12 weeks of a councillor’s resignation so, as the resignation occurred on 20 August, the by-election had to be held by 12 November 2020.

“The by-election was held on 31 October 2020, the same day as the State general election.

“Wherever possible, the ECQ aligned key State general election dates with those for the by-election with polling booths available both in the Aurukun community and Cairns,” he said.

Results for the Aurukun by-election are on the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

END

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Aurukun by-election results
• Aurukun by-election information
• Read the Declaration of the by-election PDF (0.03 MB)

31 October 2020

STATE GENERAL ELECTION: ELECTORS HAVE HAD THEIR SAY, NOW TO COUNTING THE VOTES

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says voting in the 2020 State general election is now over and the preliminary count is underway.

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ would immediately begin the painstaking process of counting of millions of votes following the close of polls.

“There are more than 926,000 election day votes, around 1.29 million early votes and over 400,000 postal votes, which have already been received back by the Commission,” he said.

The final turnout will be determined after the deadline for return of postal votes and scrutiny of declaration votes.

“The preliminary count begins after 6pm on election day, and includes the counting of election day votes, early votes and the postal votes that have been scrutinised.

“On Sunday the official count begins and includes a recount of the votes and the beginning of the distribution of preferences.

“There is also the secure transfer of votes that have been cast outside of the electors’ enrolled district, to the home district.

Mr Vidgen said the 2020 State general election has been record-breaking on many levels.

“We’ve had 597 candidates, 12 political parties, a hundred hours of early voting, and more early votes and postal votes than in any other Queensland election.

“The process of counting the votes will take time with many electorates having six or seven candidates on their ballot paper, and some with 10.

“Then we still have around 400,000 postal votes to come back to the ECQ before the deadline of 10 November. Around 100,000 electors who applied for postal votes decided to vote in person or by telephone.

“We understand everyone’s natural impatience for a result, but the counting process can’t be rushed.

“It’s worth remembering that it took nearly two weeks to fully declare the 2017 State general election, and ensuring the result is correct is more important than making it quick,” Mr Vidgen said.

Election results are progressively displayed on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au. Updates will be posted on social media and an Election Update is provided daily under the Media tab on the ECQ’s website. Declarations are made when the outcome is mathematically certain.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Go to the ECQ Election Results page
• Read the Counting the votes PDF (0.34 MB) fact sheet
• Follow the ECQ on Twitter @ECQinfo
• Follow the ECQ on Facebook @electoralcommissionqld
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

30 October 2020

STATE GENERAL ELECTION: IT'S ELECTION DAY TOMORROW, MAKE SURE YOU PLAN THE WAY YOU'LL HAVE YOUR SAY

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) reminds electors that voting will be open from 8am to 6pm at over 1,300 polling booths across the state on election day, Saturday 31 October.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said more than 1.2 million Queenslanders had taken advantage of the 100 hours of early voting provided across 200 early voting centres, with around 900,000 electors applying for a postal vote.

“Election day is still our biggest voting event with around 1.1 million electors needing to cast their vote to choose the next government of Queensland,” he said.

“However, it may not be an uneventful day with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting some wild weather in parts of the state.

“As well as electors planning the way they’ll have their say when voting, they may also have to plan their vote around the weather.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ will work to ensure all polling booths will stay open to electors if it is safe to do so.

“The ECQ will be checking the BoM radar and weather advice throughout the day and I encourage electors to do the same.

“If its bright and dry in the morning, why not head to a polling booth while the sun is shining?

“And of course, the democracy sausage and cake stall is back on the election menu, so electors won’t want to miss the opportunity to support their local community group or school.”

Mr Vidgen reminds electors that voting is compulsory and all election information, including the location of election day polling booths, is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au, or is available by calling 1300 881 665.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Your election day polling booth can be found at ecq.qld.gov.au/booths
• Check the BoM Queensland weather warnings
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

28 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: POSTAL VOTES ARE POURING IN AND THE ECQ SAYS "KEEP IT UP"

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced today that more than 316,000 postal votes have already been returned and this is a trend that the ECQ would like to see continue.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it is great to see so many electors having their say in the 2020 State general election by ensuring their postal vote reaches the ECQ well before the deadline of 10 November.

“More than a third of the total of around 900,000 postal votes have already been returned to the ECQ for inclusion in the count, which begins after the close of polls at 6pm on Saturday 31 October,” he said.

“It’s very exciting to see electors heeding our message, acting as soon as they receive their voting material and returning their ballot paper straight away.

“I encourage electors to keep it up and return their complete postal ballot as soon as possible.”

Mr Vidgen said to put the numbers in perspective, there were a total of around 300,000 postal votes counted in the 2017 State general election.

“Off the around 300,000 postal votes returned for 2017, 168,000 were returned before election day.

“The fact we already have more back than the total returned in 2017, is remarkable.”

Mr Vidgen said if an elector hasn’t received their postal vote yet and they’re worried it may not arrive in time, they can still vote in person at an early voting centre or election day polling booth.

“Electors can only be marked off the electoral roll once so there’s no danger of anyone being able to vote twice,” he said.

“Electors who live remotely or more than 20kms from a polling booth, are also eligible to telephone vote.

“Voting is compulsory and the ECQ has put in place as many voting options as possible so electors can choose their next State government as easily and safely as possible.”

Mr Vidgen said it was also a credit to election delivery partner Australia Post who has the challenging task of delivering and returning more than 900,000 postal votes.

“Australia Post took delivery of the postal votes on 21 October, following the close of nominations, the ballot paper order draw, and the printing of the ballot papers.

“It’s clear from the strong return numbers that Australia Post is working hard to ensure electors can postal vote successfully.”

Early voting, election day polling booths and telephone voting information is available at ecq.qld.gov.au. Electors can also call 1300 881 665 for information, or to register for a telephone vote call 1300 912 782.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Learn about Telephone voting PDF (0.74 MB)
• Find your election day polling booth
• Find your early voting centre
• The ECQ’s media statements and election updates are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

28 October 2020

SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENT ON ELECTORAL EXPENDITURE CAPS

Yesterday, a registered political party sought a declaration from the Supreme Court regarding the implications of GST on electoral expenditure caps.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) had the view that caps were inclusive of GST, and the Supreme Court confirmed this position.

The expenditure cap for registered political parties is $92,000 for each endorsed candidate and no more than $92,000 in an electorate. Endorsed candidates can themselves spend an additional $58,000. Independent candidates can spend $87,000, while registered third parties can spend $87,000 in an electoral district and no more than $1m overall. Unregistered third parties have an expenditure cap of $6000.

When the judgment is available, it can be viewed here: https://www.queenslandjudgments.com.au/.

Further information about caps on electoral expenditure are available here.

The ECQ will continue to review the judgment and determine whether any additional material is required.

END

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Stay up to date with election data/voting numbers
• For State general election information go to ecq.qld.gov.au.
• Find your early voting centre
• Find your election day polling booth at ecq.qld.gov.au/booths
• The ECQ’s media statements and election updates are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

22 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: POSTAL VOTES ON THEIR WAY

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) revealed today more than 890,000 postal votes have been printed and progressively provided to Australia Post for delivery to electors across the state.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the enormity of the task of getting such a vast number of postal votes to electors within the voting timeframe, can’t be underestimated. Some electors have already received their ballot, voted and returned their vote to the ECQ so it can be included in the count on election night.

“For the ECQ, it is really exciting to have the first postal votes returned well before election day and see how electors are positively engaged with our democratic processes.

“At present, around 1000 postal votes have been returned and of course, many more thousands are still in transit.”

Mr Vidgen asks postal voters to think ‘the sooner the better’ when it comes to voting and make sure they are voting correctly.

“Every box on the ballot paper must be numbered in order of preference for the vote to be counted.

“After voting, sign and witness the declaration envelope, seal the ballot paper inside and send the envelope back to the ECQ straight away.

“The ECQ must receive the votes by the deadline of 10 November to be included in the count.

“Voting is one of the most important civic duties we can undertake, and I remind Queenslanders that voting is compulsory.”

To learn more about the 2020 State general election including early voting and election day polling booth locations and times, go to ecq.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Read the ECQ’s media statements at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Find early voting stats in the Election data section of the 2020 State general election page
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• Fact sheet – Journey of your postal vote PDF (0.89 MB)
• Fact sheet – Counting the votes PDF (0.34 MB)
• Fact sheet – Full preferential voting PDF (0.98 MB)
• Find your early voting centre

21 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: NUMBER EVERY BOX TO MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) reminds electors that when voting in the 2020 State general election, every box on the ballot paper must be numbered in order of preference, starting with one.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said planning the way electors will have their say this election includes ensuring their ballot paper is filled out correctly and can be included in the count.

“Every vote is important, and we want every elector to have their say,” he said.

“State elections in Queensland have full preferential voting, meaning every box on the ballot paper must be numbered in order of preference starting with one.

“There are an unprecedented 597 candidates at this election with some electorates such as Mudgeeraba and Mermaid Beach with 10 names on their ballot paper, as well as Townsville and McConnel with nine; this can seem daunting when deciding who gets your vote.

“However, for your vote to count, you must preference every candidate.

“If you need help to do this – for example, if English is not your first language – then there are resources on our website and polling officials who can help you at the booth when you go to vote.”

Mr Vidgen said some political parties have chosen not to show the other party names on their how-to-vote cards, so electors should be clear about how they will allocate their preferences. Political campaigns can also bring into the public domain statements that are unproven or considered misleading. The ECQ urges voters to ‘stop and consider’ the information they receive during the election campaign.

“The ECQ is responsible for checking authorisation of election material but does not have a role in regulating the content of political advertising, other than statements about the process of voting or false statements about a person’s character or conduct,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Now more than ever and in the face of an avalanche of political information, electors are having to carefully consider the way they’ll have their say,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Every elector is free to follow a party’s how-to-vote card or to make their own preference choices.

“The key message is, to ensure your vote counts, number every box on your ballot paper starting with one.”

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Read the fact sheet about Full preferential voting PDF (0.98 MB)
• Read the fact sheet Stop and consider PDF (0.96 MB)
• Read the fact sheet Your vote makes a difference PDF (0.86 MB)
• Find your early voting centre
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

19 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: EARLY VOTE FROM MONDAY

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is encouraging electors to vote early in the 2020 State general election at one of the 200 early voting centres across Queensland, from Monday 19 October through to Friday 30 October.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said two weeks of extended early voting across Queensland combined with sensible health measures implemented in polling booths, were part of the ECQ’s commitment to delivering a COVID-safe State general election.

“The ECQ wants all electors who are voting in person to have a streamlined and COVID-safe voting experience,” Mr Vidgen said.

“There are some very simple and proven steps we can all take to ensure voting is done easily and safely.

“We ask electors to plan the way they’ll have their say in the 2020 State general election.

“This means thinking about their vote before they get to the polling booth, bringing their Voter Information Card if they have one, staying 1.5 metres apart when voting, using hand sanitiser, and bringing a pen or pencil if they wish.

“The ECQ has employed queue management staff and has designed polling booths to create an efficient voting experience.”

The distribution of how-to-vote cards will be allowable for the election, in accordance with a Direction issued by the ECQ.  However, campaign workers will need to comply with social distancing guidelines and hygiene standards and not re-use how-to-vote cards.

Mr Vidgen reiterated that it is the voter’s choice about whether they take how-to-vote cards being distributed by any campaign worker.

Mr Vidgen said many early voting centres will be open from 9am to 6pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; from 9am to 9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and 9am to 5pm on Saturday 24 October. Electors should check the ECQ website for the most up-to-date voting locations, days and times.

“Making voting available on the Saturday before election day is happening for the very first time for a Queensland general election,” he said.

“Nearly half of all electors chose early voting in the March local government elections.

“This helped deliver fewer and shorter queues, electors averaging around three minutes in a polling booth according to an elector survey, lower voting numbers on election day, and no spike in COVID-19 infections following the election period.

“Currently there’s an ECQ information campaign running across social media and digital platforms that is sharing health advice with electors.

“On election day Saturday 31 October, approximately 1,300 voting centres across Queensland will be open from 8am to 6pm, and I remind electors that voting is compulsory,” Mr Vidgen said.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• The ECQ’s early voting information
• View the Voting with ease animation and other advertising at ECQ’s YouTube page
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• ECQ media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Learn about full preferential voting

16 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: KEY PARTNERSHIPS DELIVERING FOR VOTERS

The Electoral Commission of Queensland said key partnerships are crucial to the delivery of the 2020 State general election, including those with Brisbane-based printers Fuji Xerox Document Management Solutions and Printcraft, as well as Australia Post and TOLL.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said delivering an election is a vast and complex logistical exercise and the role of partners can’t be underestimated.

“We are now in the process of printing seven million ballot papers, including a record number of postal ballots which are being delivered to postal voters via Australia Post.

“It’s essential to ensure there are enough ballot papers for all 200 early voting and 1,300 election day polling booths for the total voting period, especially now that COVID-19 has had an impact on delivery times.

“This huge printing and delivery endeavour is part of delivering democracy to electors across Queensland and I thank partners Fuji Xerox DMS, Printcraft, Australia Post and TOLL for their dedication to this process,” Mr Vidgen said.

Fuji Xerox DMS is responsible for producing over 600,000 postal ballots and Printcraft is producing around 200,000 postal ballots. The last postal ballots printed will be lodged with Australia Post on 21 October.

Managing Director of Fuji Xerox DMS Brett Matthews said it was a privilege to be a partner in delivering democracy to Queensland.

“COVID-19 has shifted the way we interact on a number of levels.

“As an agile business Fuji Xerox DMS has been able to scale and adapt our service offering and along with the Electoral Commission, to provide a solution that best supports the people and Government of Queensland.

“Producing postal vote material demands expertise, a robust process and enhanced technology to meet strict deadlines, all of which are attributes Fuji Xerox DMS sees as its core business,” Mr Matthews said.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said postal votes are now progressively being securely transferred to Australia Post to be sent to electors across Queensland.

“Postal vote applications close at 7pm on Friday 16 October and more than 787,000 Queenslanders have already applied.

“This is a record number of postal vote applications for a Queensland election, and those voters can be assured that our printers are working around the clock to print all the required ballots so they can be lodged with Australia Post for delivery around the state.

“Electors who have opted to postal vote are urged to vote, sign, witness and mail their vote as soon as they receive them so they can reach the ECQ before the deadline of 10 November.

“Even if electors have applied for a postal vote, they can still choose to vote in person during early voting or on election day.

“They will be marked off the electoral roll, so will only be able to vote once.

“All voting, including postal voting, must be completed by 6pm on election day, Saturday 31 October,” Mr Vidgen said.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Apply for a postal vote at ecq.qld.gov.au/postal
• Find your early voting centre
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

END

14 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: YOUR VIC IS ON ITS WAY

The Electoral Commission of Queensland says voter information cards for the 2020 State general election are on their way to Queenslanders on the electoral roll.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the voter information cards or VICs are designed to provide information about the election and aid the voting process with a QR code containing electors’ enrolment details.

“The VIC provides electors with information about the type of election, key dates, the name of their electorate, voting options and details on where to access further election information,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The QR code makes it quicker to mark electors off the roll when they vote in person.

“Bringing a VIC when you vote is not essential: but the VIC will make it quick.

“Postal voters in the 2020 State general election will still receive a VIC so they’re aware of voting options, however electors who are registered as special postal voters will not receive a VIC.

“Voters should also be aware that, even if they have applied for a postal vote, they can still choose to go to a polling booth and vote in person. They will be marked off the roll and will only be able to vote once.”

Mr Vidgen said early voting begins on Monday 19 October from 9am to 6pm through to Friday 30 October with late night voting on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 9pm, as well as voting from 9am to 5pm on Saturday 24 October. There is no voting on Sundays.

“Election day is Saturday 31 October with voting between 8am and 6pm and all voting locations and times are on the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au,” he said.

Any electors planning to vote in person who do not receive a VIC are still able to vote easily at a polling booth by providing their details but may need to update their details on the electoral roll.

It’s easy to make sure you’re correctly enrolled by going to aec.gov.au.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Read the Voter information card fact sheet
• Find your early voting centre
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• Information for Election participants

13 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: DEMOCRACY SAUSAGES BACK ON THE MENU, BUT CAUTION REQUIRED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland said fundraising activities will proceed at voting venues for the upcoming election, including the sale of the iconic ‘democracy sausage’.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it was great to see the return of the Australian favourite for the 2020 State general election period but reminded electors that all COVID-19 health requirements were still relevant.

“Fundraising activities at election time are often an important activity for community organisations and schools,” he said.

“During the March local government elections, the emergence of COVID-19 meant democracy sausages and cake stalls were put on hold; fortunately, we are in a much better place now.

“However, the onus is on the fundraising organisers and volunteers to ensure they are following the relevant COVID-19 guidelines.”

“The ECQ has developed an Election Service Plan that details how voting venues remain COVID-safe and ensures electors can move through the voting process easily and safely.

“This means any fundraising activities must provide clear access for electors to and from the voting venue, and practice social distancing, good hand hygiene and regular cleaning.”

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said as long as everyone follows the rules, it would be safe to vote.

“While many across the state would have already voted before election day, those in the community going out to vote have a few things to keep in mind.

“As always, if you’re sick, stay home.

“Take your voter information card with you, and your own pen or pencil.

“Remember to social distance, think two big steps apart from other people, and leave the venue right after voting.

“We’ve made great progress across the state over the past few months, but it is critical not to get complacent.”

Sausage sizzles are considered a take-away food venue and are required to comply with the Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction.

Organisers will need to follow the Industry Plan for Food Services. More information is available at covid19.qld.gov.au

A democracy sausage sizzle does not require an event checklist, unless it’s part of a bigger event involving other activities.

ECQ media contact: 0438 120 699, media@ecq.qld.gov.au

Health Media and Issues Team: 0438 209 619

Resources

• Find the candidates on the ECQ’s website here
• Find your early voting centre
• Read the Journey of your postal vote fact sheet
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

12 October 2020

AURUKUN COUNCIL BY-ELECTION CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland is delivering a local government by-election for the Aurukun Shire Council following the resignation of a councillor.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for candidates closed today and a draw was conducted to randomly allocate each candidate a position on the ballot paper.

“There are two candidates vying for the one council position: Dereck Walpo and Jayden Marrott,” he said.

“Electors will have the option of voting early or on election day on 31 October in both the council and State general elections.

“For community members currently staying in Cairns, early voting is at 2/248-250 Hartley Street, Bungalow between 9am and 6pm on Monday 26, Wednesday 28 and Friday 30 October, with late night voting available on Tuesday 27 and Thursday 29 October between 9am and 9pm.

“There is also early voting in Aurukun at the Wo’uw Ko’alam Community Centre between 9am and 6pm on Friday 30 October.

“Election day voting will be available in Aurukun at Wo’uw Ko’alam Community Centre between 8am and 6pm on Saturday 31 October. There is no council election day voting in Cairns.”

Mr Vidgen said Aurukun electors will need to use different voting systems for their State and Council ballot papers.

“The State general election is full preferential voting which means numbering every box on the ballot paper in order of preference starting with one.

“For the council, it’s first-past-the-post so electors just need to number at least one box on their ballot paper, as there is only one position being elected.”

If an elector wants to postal vote for both the State general election and Aurukun by-election, they must apply before 7pm on Friday 16 October. If they are only applying for the Aurukun by-election, they can apply up to Monday 19 October.

“It’s very easy to apply for a postal vote online at ecq.qld.gov.au or by calling 1300 881 665,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Electors not currently living at their enrolled address, can have their postal vote sent to the address where they are staying.”

Mr Vidgen said that under the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act), the council can choose to fill the vacancy through a by-election or through appointment of the runner-up.

“The Aurukun Shire Council has resolved to conduct a by-election to fill the vacancy.

“The Act requires a by-election to be held within 12 weeks of a councillor’s resignation so as the resignation occurred on 20 August, the by-election had to be held by 12 November 2020.

“Wherever possible, the ECQ has aligned key State general election dates with those for the by-election,” he said.

Information about the Aurukun by-election and the 2020 State general election is available on the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Aurukun by-election timetable

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Learn more about voting systems
• Read the How to vote step-by-step guide
• It’s easy to apply for a postal vote online – State general election
• It’s easy to apply for a postal vote online – Aurukun by-election
• Information about the Aurukun by-election
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)

11 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: RECORD 12 POLITICAL PARTIES AND 597 CANDIDATES NOMINATE FOR ELECTION

The Electoral Commission of Queensland says following the close of nominations and the completion of the ballot paper order draw, candidates for the 2020 State general election can be formally announced.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there are 597 candidates across Queensland’s 93 electorates competing for Queenslanders’ votes in 2020.

“This year’s State general election sees 144 more candidates than in 2017, where 453 ran for parliament.

“A vibrant democracy needs a strong contest of ideas and it’s exciting to see a record-breaking 12 registered political parties endorsing candidates, as well as a large cohort of non-endorsed candidates, all throwing their hat into the political ring to vie for the opportunity to represent their communities in State Parliament.

“Queenslanders can now find the candidates running in their electorate via the ECQ’s 2020 State general election webpage.”

Mr Vidgen said the printing of ballot papers will now begin following the ballot paper order draw, and that also means postal votes will start to go out to electors who have applied for them.

“Postal votes will start being sent from tomorrow, 12 October, but due to the large number of applications to date, ballot material will be sent progressively.

“Once an elector receives their envelope, we urge them act immediately and vote, sign, witness and send their envelope back to the ECQ.

“For postal votes to be included in the count they must be back to the ECQ by 10 November at the very latest, so getting them in the mail sooner, is better,” he said.

Mr Vidgen said the large number of candidates in this election will also have an impact on the time taken to count and there may be a more complex and time-consuming distribution of preferences, especially where there is a large number of candidates contesting the seat.

A list of all candidates is available on the ECQ website in ballot paper order here.

The non-endorsed and political party candidate numbers are listed below:

• 93 Australian Labor Party (State of Queensland)
• 93 Liberal National Party of Queensland
• 93 Queensland Greens
• 90 Pauline Hanson’s One Nation Queensland Division
• 55 Clive Palmer’s United Australia Party
• 31 Informed Medical Options Party
• 23 Legalise Cannabis QLD (Party)
• 16 Civil Liberties and Motorists Party
• 13 Animal Justice Party (Queensland)
• 13 Katter’s Australia Party
• 5 North Queensland First
• 3 Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party (QLD)
• 69 non-endorsed/independent.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Find the candidates listed in ballot paper order on the ECQ’s 2020 State general election page or here
• Find your early voting centre
• Read the Journey of your postal vote fact sheet
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• Read more about Disclosure of political donations
• Information for Election participants

8 October 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: CANDIDATE NOMINATIONS CLOSE AT NOON, SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER

The Electoral Commission of Queensland says candidate nominations for the 2020 State general election close at noon on Sunday 11 October.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen urges anyone interested in being a candidate in the election to nominate now so they don’t miss the upcoming deadline.

“Running for public office is a very significant step for anyone and it’s important to know and understand your obligations as part of the nomination process.

“There are specific rules around nominations that must be followed.

“Candidates require a deposit of $250, and if endorsed by a registered political party, must be nominated by the registered officer or deputy registered officer of the party.

“Independent/non-endorsed candidates must be nominated by at least six electors with current enrolment in their electoral district.

“However, as a safeguard, the ECQ encourages these candidates to seek nominations from more than six electors with current enrolment in their electoral district, to make sure they will be eligible to stand.”

Mr Vidgen said there are changes to funding and disclosure rules for this election including the requirements for candidates to show they have a dedicated campaign bank account.

“It’s crucial candidates, registered political parties, associated entities, groups and individuals are aware of the requirements and obligations and nominate as early as possible so any errors or concerns can be addressed before the deadline.

“Once nominations close, the ballot paper order draw is undertaken and the ballot papers are printed,” he said.

Anyone interested in nominating as a candidate in the 2020 State general election should visit the ECQ website and carefully review the requirements and then nominate as soon as possible.

Details of all nominated candidates will be published on the ECQ website following the close of nominations and the ballot paper order draw.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Find your early voting centre
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation go to YouTube
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Read the Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• Nominating process for the state election fact sheet
• Read more about Disclosure of political donations
• Information for Election participants

AURUKUN VOTING FOR NEW COUNCILLOR AT BY-ELECTION

1 October 2020

QLD GENERAL ELECTION: EARLY VOTING CENTRE LOCATIONS ONLINE NOW

30 September 2020

QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: ELECTORAL EXPENDITURE CHANGES NOW IN EFFECT

25 September 2020

ECQ REMINDS VOTERS: MAKE SURE YOU'RE CORRECTLY ENROLLED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is reminding Queenslanders to make sure they’re correctly enrolled before the State general election in October.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said people often forget to update their enrolment following the busyness around moving or starting university.

“Moving to a new house, leaving home for the first time, starting a new job in a new city, or turning 18, are all intense experiences and sometimes enrolling to vote or updating enrolment is forgotten,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Now is a perfect time to check, enrol or update enrolment as the State general election is just around the corner with election day on Saturday 31 October.

“Being correctly enrolled means your voter information card or postal vote arrives at the right address and if you vote in person, you are processed quickly through the polling booth.”

Mr Vidgen said the enrolment process was simple to do online and only takes a few minutes.

“The Australian Electoral Commission maintains the electoral roll for all electoral commissions across the country,” he said.

“By simply going to aec.gov.au electors can select if they need to enrol for the first time, check their enrolment or update their details.

“Even those experiencing homelessness can be enrolled under the special enrolment option of people with no fixed address.

“Provisional enrolment is also available for soon-to-be voters who are 16 or 17.

“Enrolling and voting are compulsory in Australia, so I urge all Queenslanders to go online now and make sure they’re correctly enrolled.”

Mr Vidgen said preparations are well advanced to deliver a COVID-safe State general election in October with the ECQ issuing an Election Service Plan outlining activities being undertaken.

“We are planning for an election period that includes postal vote applications from mid-September, two weeks of extended early voting, and election day voting from 8am to 6pm on Saturday 31 October,” he said.

“We will again implement a range of health measures at all polling booths to ensure electors can safely participate in our democracy and elect their next State government.”

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• To make sure you’re correctly enrolled go to aec.gov.au
• View the enrol to vote animation and the ECQ Youth Campaign
• Read the ECQ’s Election Service Plan PDF (0.9 MB)
• ECQ media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media/
• For all State general election updates go to ecq.qld.gov.au

9 September 2020

2020 QUEENSLAND GENERAL ELECTION: POSTAL VOTE APPLICATIONS OPEN MONDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says postal vote applications for the 2020 State general election open on Monday 14 September and close on Friday 16 October.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the option to apply for a postal vote weeks before the start of the election period, will support electors who may not want to vote in person due to COVID-19.

“The ECQ is working to ensure Queensland electors have every opportunity to vote for their representative in the next Parliament,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Usually postal vote applications open with the issue of the writ, which begins the election period.

“However, with COVID-19 still a factor, we anticipate strong interest in postal voting just as we saw in March’s local government elections where around 570,000 electors applied.

“While electors can apply for a postal vote on the ECQ website or by phoning the ECQ’s call centre from Monday 14 September, we can’t mail the ballot papers until after candidate nominations close in mid-October.

“We remind electors who applied for a postal vote in March and want to postal vote in October, they need to apply again,” he said.

The ECQ is also establishing special postal voting arrangements for residents of certain aged care facilities which would usually receive a mobile polling service as a ‘declared institution’.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and to protect vulnerable residents, the ECQ is unable to provide this service for this election. However, the ECQ will streamline the postal vote process for these facilities, to make sure it is easy for residents to vote by post if that is their preference.

Mr Vidgen said electors can be assured ECQ is ready to deliver a COVID-safe State general election with its Statement of Intent outlining the election’s delivery principles.

“We are planning for an election period with two weeks of extended early voting days and hours, including voting on Saturday 24 October as well as election day voting between 8am and 6pm on Saturday 31 October,” he said.

“To ensure voting in person can be as streamlined as possible, we ask electors to ‘plan the way they’ll have their say’.

“That means planning their vote, choosing where and when they’ll vote, staying 1.5 metres apart, using hand sanitiser and bringing their own pen or pencil.

“The ECQ continues to take the advice of the Chief Health Officer in safely managing voting in Queensland.

“It’s important to note that due to everyone’s careful adherence to health advice during the March local government elections, there was no subsequent spike in COVID-19 infections,” he said.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• To apply via the call centre from Monday 14 September, phone 1300 881 665.
• To make sure you’re correctly enrolled go to aec.gov.au.
• To read the ECQ’s 2020 State general election Statement of Intent.
• ECQ media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media.

5 August 2020

ECQ NON-VOTER RESPONSE TAILORED TO CIRCUMSTANCES

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is implementing a tailored response to non-voters from the March local government elections and Currumbin and Bundamba by-elections.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the elections were delivered under challenging circumstances with the COVID-19 pandemic intensifying during the election period.

“The ECQ recognises that many electors who wanted to vote in the local government elections or by-elections, may not have voted due to a heightened anxiety about COVID-19,” Mr Vidgen said.

“While voting is compulsory, we understand the extraordinary circumstances around the March elections and have tailored our response to non-voters accordingly.”

Mr Vidgen said the election data shows that around 270,000 Queensland electors were first-time non-voters in March.

“In recognition of the unprecedented circumstances of delivering the elections during an unfolding global pandemic, first-time non-voters will not be fined or receive a warning from the ECQ,” he said.

“However, we remind electors that voting is compulsory and, with expanded voting options for the October State general election, concerns over COVID-19 won’t be considered a valid reason for not voting.

“In coming weeks around 30,000 electors will receive a warning letter because they have missed voting in more than one election, including March, and have not provided an excuse or responded to the ECQ.

“The approximately 20,000 electors who are repeat non-voters across multiple elections and have made no effort to engage with the ECQ, will be sent an ‘apparent failure to vote’ notice and be invited to explain their reason for not voting.

“If they are unable to provide a valid reason, or do not engage with the ECQ, they will receive a fine.”

Mr Vidgen said preparations are well advanced to deliver a COVID-safe State general election in October with the ECQ issuing a Statement of Intent outlining the election’s delivery principles.

“The ECQ is using all the lessons from March to ensure a safe and fair general election in October,” he said.

“This means voters will be provided with every opportunity to vote while accommodating health requirements.

“We urge electors to plan for the election, to choose whether they’ll postal vote, vote early or on election day, and be clear about their choice of candidate and their order of preferences.”

Mr Vidgen said ECQ staff are pleased to have delivered the March local government elections without a spike in COVID-19.

“This excellent outcome was due to careful adherence to the Chief Health Officer’s advice, the diligence of our staff, and the sensible response by electors when voting.

“For the State election, we will again implement a range of health measures as well as extended voting opportunities to ensure electors can safely participate in our democracy and elect their next state government,” Mr Vidgen said.

Updates the State general election will be available at ecq.qld.gov.au/elections/election-events/2020-state-general-election

14 July 2020

THE ECQ FOCUSSED ON DELIVERING FAIR AND SAFE ELECTIONS FOR QUEENSLANDERS

The Electoral Commission of Queensland is focussed on delivering fair and safe elections for Queenslanders including ensuring security is safeguarded at all levels of the electoral process.

Queensland’s Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said recent media reports casting doubt on the safety of electoral information were false.

“Queensland electoral information is safely stored within Australia and not accessible to offshore entities as claimed,” Mr Vidgen said.

“It’s disturbing to see reports making false statements about the ECQ’s Election Management System.

“The EMS is an administrative system designed to support election processes.

“It does not conduct elections, nor conduct electronic voting, count votes or determine election outcomes.

“To state that the electoral roll, which is managed by the Australian Electoral Commission, is somehow compromised is incorrect,” he said.

Mr Vidgen said the EMS is subject to ongoing review and testing by Australia’s cyber security experts.

“The Australian Cyber Security Centre completed an assessment of the EMS to ensure all steps were being taken to safeguard its security,” he said.

“In addition, the ECQ is working closely with Commonwealth and Queensland cyber security agencies, the Commonwealth Electoral Integrity Assurance Taskforce, the Queensland Government Customer and Digital Group and the Queensland Police Service to ensure appropriate cyber security protections are in place for the EMS and across ECQ’s operations.”

Mr Vidgen said the implication that election outcomes could be interfered with are also untrue.

“All vote counting is undertaken by ECQ election staff and results are checked and verified through multiple stages prior to declaration of election outcomes.

“The conflating of the delay in publishing election results from the local government elections on election night in March with the development of the EMS is also incorrect.

“The delay in publishing election results was caused by an issue with the feed of data to the election results website.

“This was clearly stated in the ECQ’s submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s online publication of preliminary and formal counts of votes cast in the local government elections and state by-elections held on 28 March 2020.

“The ECQ is dedicated to delivering fair and safe elections for all Queenslanders,’ Mr Vidgen said.

15 July 2020

ECQ PLANS UNDERWAY FOR COVID-SAFE STATE GENERAL ELECTION

ALL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION RESULTS DECLARED

The ECQ has formally declared all 578 mayor and councillor roles decided in the 2020 local government elections.

“All of Queensland’s 77 local governments can now continue their important work for their communities in these extraordinary times,” said Electoral Commissioner, Mr Pat Vidgen.

“I would like to thank the more than 75 per cent of eligible Queenslanders who voted either on the day, at early polling stations or with a postal vote. This compares favourably with 83 per cent at the 2016 local government elections,” he said.

“The high number of postal votes and extra social distancing measures required during counting have meant that it has taken us a little longer to declare all results as each postal vote requires additional scrutiny before being included in the count,” said Mr Vidgen.

In 2016, all councils were declared 2½ weeks out from election day. In 2020, that has been a little over three weeks.

“We are already considering how the State election will be delivered later this year, and have been providing advice to the Government about this” said Mr Vidgen.

Under the Queensland Constitution, a State general election must be held in 2020.

29 March 2020

COUNT CONTINUING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

The preliminary count was conducted in the local government elections as scheduled following the close of polling on election day, 28 March 2020.

Due to a technical issue with the data feed from polling booths to the ECQ’s results website, the publication of the preliminary count results was delayed.

This did not affect the count process itself or the recording of results from over 1,000 polling booths around the state.

The ECQ worked immediately to address the issues with the data feed, with all results from the preliminary count published on the website by 11.45pm.

To ensure transparency of the counting process while the publication of results was delayed, the ECQ contacted all candidates and political parties to advise that they would be admitted to polling booths to scrutinise the voting process.

This followed the issuing of a Direction to prohibit scrutineers from the preliminary count due to social distancing measures required to minimise health risks of COVID-19.

All candidates and political parties were kept informed throughout the preliminary count process, including notification of the publication of full results.

Under legislation, the counting of votes is undertaken in a number of stages:

• The preliminary count, conducted following the close of polls is an unofficial count of results undertaken at a polling booth level. Not all votes, such as postal votes and most of the votes cast during the early voting period, are counted during the preliminary count.
• The official count commences from Sunday (commencement times vary depending on individual locations) under the supervision of the relevant Returning Officer. The preliminary count is always counted again as part of the official count and declaration and postal vote scrutiny commences.

Depending on the number and composition of votes cast in an election, the official count process can take up to two weeks.  The large number of postal votes sent in the local government elections (approximately 570,000) and new social distancing measures to be applied during the scrutineering process are expected to extend the counting process.

The official count will proceed as planned from 9am on Sunday, 29 March 2020 and results will be published to the ECQ website at www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

23 March 2020

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS TO PROCEED

The Electoral Commission of Queensland has today assured voters that the local government elections will go ahead on March 28.

“The local government elections are going ahead with advice from the Chief Health Officer,” said Mr Pat Vidgen.

“Voting allows local government to form so that they can make decisions about providing essential services to the community – waste, transport, and community services.  People need their governments now more than ever.

More than 650 000 people have so far chosen to vote early with four days of prepolling still to go.

“At the moment, voting is quick,” he said. “The average time it takes once entering an early voting centre is under 3 minutes and even quicker if people bring their Voter Information Card.

“The ECQ has created more than 300 additional position at 100 early polling places across the state to help voters mover through booths smoothly, and maintain social distancing measures.

“We have written to the people who own the schools, community halls and other locations of our voting booths to strongly encourage them to reconsider and fundraising activity they may have had planned for the day.

“This, along with preventing candidates from handing election material directly to voters, will further limit the number of people gathering in or around a voting booth at any one time.”

Early voting centres will be open from 9am to 6pm tomorrow and Friday, and from 9am to 9pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Polling booths will be open on election day, Saturday 28 March, from 8am to 6pm.

For all 2020 local government election information go to www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

Key dates for the 2020 local government elections:

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March at 7pm – Postal vote applications close
• 16 March to 27 March – Early voting period
• 28 March – Election day

For media queries, email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699.

21 March 2020

HISTORIC DAY OF SATURDAY EARLY VOTING

In a Queensland first, voters have had the opportunity to vote on two consecutive Saturdays in the 2020 local government elections and Currumbin and Bundamba by-elections.

As part of a suite of public safety measures introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) extended early voting hours across the state, including conducting polling on a Saturday.

Candidates and volunteers were also subject to new rules which prohibited the distribution of how-to-vote cards and other election material at polling booths.

Queensland Electoral Commissioner, Pat Vidgen, visited early voting centres today and said there was good compliance with the Direction about Display of How-to Vote Cards and Election Material issued on 20 March.

“In these unprecedented circumstances, it’s pleasing to see that voters, candidates and polling officials are all taking steps to comply with the hygiene practices and social distancing measures we all now need to abide by.

“The ECQ is putting public safety first in delivering these elections and providing extra opportunities for electors to vote is one way we can avoid having a large concentration of people visiting polling booths on election day.

“I encourage everyone who hasn’t done so already to get out and vote early this week, taking advantage of the extra opening hours”, Mr Vidgen said.

Early voting centres will be open from 9am to 6pm on Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and from 9am to 9pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Polling booths will be open on election day, Saturday 28 March, from 8am to 6pm.

For all 2020 local government election information go to www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

Key dates for the 2020 local government elections:

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March at 7pm – Postal vote applications close
• 16 March to 27 March – Early voting period
• 28 March – Election day

For media queries, email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699.

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March at 9am – Early voting commences
• 16 March at 7pm postal vote application close
• 28 March 2020 – election day

Media contact
0438 120 699
media@ecq.qld.gov.au

17 March 2020

EARLY VOTING SOARS, VOTING TIMES EXTENDED

Early voting numbers in the 2020 local government elections have reached unprecedented numbers with over 169,257 Queenslanders already casting their vote at the close of early voting today, Tuesday 17 March.

Queensland Electoral Commissioner, Pat Vidgen, said the number is nearly four times that of the first two days of voting in the 2016 local government elections.

“Queensland electors have embraced early voting in record numbers with 73,900 casting their vote at yesterday’s pre-polling and over 95,000 voting today,” he said.

“The 2016 local government elections saw around 48,000 votes cast over the first two days, so the increase is more than an astonishing 121,000 voters.

“Although we were expecting a rise in early voting, this increase is much greater than predicted.

“Clearly electors are hearing our message about taking advantage of early voting to mitigate exposure to COVID-19.”

Mr Vidgen also announced an extension of voting hours in most early voting centres to cater for demand.

“Pre-polling is available at 128 early voting centres between 9am and 9pm on Wednesday and Thursday this week and next week, and on Saturday 21 March between 9am and 5pm.

“This is the first time ever that Queensland electors have had two Saturdays available for voting.

“I encourage electors to visit our website to find their closest early voting centre and hours of operation so they can have their say,” Mr Vidgen said.

Additionally, the ECQ has initiated special voting times for more vulnerable electors, such as people aged 60 and over between 9am and 11am daily.

The Commissioner said the ECQ has implemented other measures including additional cleaning in polling booths, encouraging electors to bring their own pen or pencil when they vote, providing hand sanitiser, encouraging candidates to distribute their how-to-vote flyers without handling them, asking all political stakeholders to limit supporters at polling booths and putting on extra ECQ staff to manage queueing safely.

Media contact
0438 120 699
media@ecq.qld.gov.au

15 March 2020

Local government election update

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is implementing a range of extra measures for the 2020 local government elections and Currumbin and Bundamba by-elections to make sure that a safe environment is provided to Queenslanders voting in the elections.

The ECQ has been closely monitoring statements by the Prime Minister and the advice of health authorities in considering how to conduct polling in these elections.

“The local government elections are proceeding in accordance with advice that only non-essential mass gatherings should be cancelled”, said Queensland’s Electoral Commissioner, Mr Pat Vidgen.

“Elections facilitate an essential service by providing for democratic representation for Queenslanders.

“However, we recognise that this is an extraordinary situation and are adapting our service model accordingly. This includes additional hygiene precautions and people management measures to be implemented at the nearly 1500 early voting centres and polling booths across Queensland.

“I ask for the understanding and cooperation of all voters to make sure that the elections are conducted smoothly and with minimal impact on voters and election staff.

“This is a unique and evolving situation and we will update voters if circumstances change. I encourage people to check the ECQ website for up-to-date information about how to cast their vote”, Mr Vidgen said.

Applications for postal votes will close at 7pm on Monday, 16 March 2020, in accordance with the Local Government Electoral Act 2011. This deadline is established under the legislation for the election on 28 March and cannot be altered by the ECQ.

“Understandably, there has been a huge demand for postal votes this weekend.  Since Friday afternoon, we have received over 96,000 new applications for postal votes”, Mr Vidgen said.

The ECQ extended its operating hours over the weekend in order to respond to the anticipated level of demand.

Additionally, the ECQ will be implementing a range of new measures for people attending early voting centres and polling booths to vote in-person.

This includes sourcing additional supplies of hand sanitiser for use by voters at polling booths.  Due to high levels of demand, these supplies are expected to be available at early voting centres by mid-week.

Voters are also encouraged to bring their own pen or pencil with them to vote as an additional hygiene precaution.

Other measures include:

• Additional cleaning of polling booth areas will be undertaken to ensure that all surfaces are regularly disinfected.
• Extra staff will be employed at polling booths to assist with queue control and monitoring numbers of people in attendance.
• Vote issuing tables and screens will be positioned to maximise distance between all people in attendance.
• New measures will be implemented to take votes of residents of aged care facilities which were to be ‘declared institutions’.

Early voting will start from Monday, 16 March 2020 and generally open from 9am to 5pm during the first week of early voting, and from 9am to 6pm during the second week of early voting.  The ECQ will be monitoring demand and is exploring options to extend voting hours.

Further information will be released and published on the ECQ website about extended opening hours during the early voting period.

It is important to remember that voting is compulsory. Electors should consider which voting options are most suitable for them at these elections.

Key election dates:

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March – Early voting commences
• 16 March at 7pm postal vote applications close
• 28 March 2020 – election day

For media queries email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699.

13 March 2020

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS PROCEEDING

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has carefully considered today’s decisions by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) regarding actions to protect Australians from the impact of coronavirus.

A key outcome arising from the COAG meeting was advising against the conduct of organised non-essential mass gatherings of over 500 people.

Having considered the public statements from First Ministers at COAG, and taking advice from Queensland’s health authorities and experts, the Queensland Electoral Commissioner, Mr Pat Vidgen, has determined that it is in the public interest to proceed with the local government elections and the State by-elections in Bundamba and Currumbin on 28 March 2020.

“The forthcoming Queensland elections are essential public events required to ensure the continuity of democratic representation and public administration across the State”, Mr Vidgen said. Mr Vidgen also noted that “It is extremely unlikely that more than 500 people would ever be in a polling booth at any one time, and electors generally only spend a short period of time in a booth.”

“The ECQ will continue to monitor advice being issued by health authorities to ensure that the elections are conducted with minimal risk to the health and safety of Queenslanders.”

A range of voting options are available for the 2020 elections including:

• Postal voting – any elector can apply to receive a postal vote through the ECQ website or by calling 1300 881 665.  Under legislation, postal vote applications must close at 7pm on Monday, 16 March 2020.
• Early voting – early voting will start from Monday, 16 March 2020 in all councils where in-person voting is required. The number of people attending early voting centres is traditionally lower than on election day, so voters may wish to cast their vote at a time when fewer people are expected to be present. Early voting times vary across councils, and details are available on the ECQ website.

It is important to remember that voting is compulsory and electors should consider which voting options are most suitable for them at these elections.

The ECQ will also take additional measures including:

• Actively monitoring the numbers of electors in busy booths to limit the number of voters in attendance to fewer than 500 at any one time.
• Providing current and updated Queensland Health advice to all voters and polling officials.  This includes recommended personal hygiene measures when visiting polling booths, maintaining 1.5 metre distance from people coughing or sneezing, and staying at home if sick.
• Offering telephone voting to all electors in ‘declared institutions’ such as aged care facilities, rather than conducting in-person mobile polling.
• Allowing electors to bring their own pens or pencils to polling booths to cast their vote.

The COAG communique detailing the outcomes of the COAG meeting are available at: https://www.coag.gov.au/meeting-outcomes/coag-meeting-communique-13-march-2020.

For the latest information on COVID-19 visit https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/diseases-infection/diseases/coronavirus/public-info-novel-coronavirus/frequently-asked-questions-novel-coronavirus.

Key election dates:

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March – Early voting commences
• 16 March at 7pm postal vote applications close
• 28 March 2020 – election day

For media queries email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699.

11 March 2020

COVID-19 AND QUEENSLAND'S LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

This month, more than three million Queenslanders will go to the polls to have their say in 77 local government elections and two by-elections.

The Electoral Commissioner, Pat Vidgen, said that the Electoral Commission of Queensland is monitoring advice from the Queensland Chief Health Officer regarding the appropriate response to the emergence of COVID-19.

“The current advice provided by Queensland Health is that there is no need to cancel mass gatherings or events, or take additional precautions to normal practice,” Mr Vidgen said.

“We have provided advice to temporary election staff, and are asking that members of the public take normal common sense precautions, such as good hand and respiratory hygiene.

“This is, of course, a fast-moving situation, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely, and take advice from the relevant authorities, including Queensland Health. If that advice changes we are prepared to respond appropriately.

“At this stage we remain focused on making sure that all Queenslanders have the services they need to cast their vote in the local government elections.

“Voting remains compulsory.”

Key election dates:

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 28 February – Close of electoral roll
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 4 March – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March – Early voting commences
• 16 March at 7pm postal vote applications close
• 28 March 2020 – election day

For media queries email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699

For the latest information on COVID-19 visit https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/diseases-infection/diseases/coronavirus/public-info-novel-coronavirus/frequently-asked-questions-novel-coronavirus

22 February 2020

2020 QUEENSLAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS ANNOUNCED

The 2020 Queensland local government elections have been announced and eligible Queenslanders must act now to ensure their voice is heard on election day, 28 March.

More than 3 million Queenslanders will go to the polls to have their say in 77 local government elections on 28 March.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said if you’re a Queensland based Australian citizen and not enrolled you won’t be able to have your say.

”All Queensland citizens aged 18 years and over on election day are required by law to enrol and vote in the local elections.” Mr Vidgen said.

“Check your enrolment today to ensure that you’re on the roll, and that your address and name are listed correctly.”

“You can check your details on the Australian Electoral Commission website at www.aec.gov.au.”

The best and quickest way to enrol or update your address or name details is online but if you are not able to go online, you can get a paper enrolment form at any Australia Post office.

Correctly completed applications must be returned to the AEC by 5pm on 28 February 2020.

For more information about the local elections and the ways you can vote, go to the ECQ website at ECQ.qld.gov.au.

Key dates for the 2020 Queensland Local Government elections

• 22 February – Notice of Election
• 22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations
• 28 February 2020 – Close of electoral roll
• 4 March 2020 – Ballot paper draw
• 16 March 2020 – Early voting commences
• 28 March 2020 – Election day

For media queries email media@ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 0438 120 699