We finally have an election date! Australians will head to the polls on 3 May 2025. Soon candidates will be out shaking hands, hugging babies, and donning high-vis gear. But before the campaign trail goes into full swing, there’s some important things to address.
At Hireup, we believe that every eligible Australian should have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. It doesn’t matter to us who you vote for, what’s important is that you have the opportunity to vote.
Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or wondering about accessible voting options, this guide breaks it all down for you.
Image source: Australian Electoral Commission flickr.
In summary:
- Australians will head to the polls on 3 May to decide our next Prime Minister.
- Voting is the best way to have your say in the future of our country. It is a right that everyone should be able to exercise.
- Make sure you enrol to vote by Monday 7 April to exercise your right to vote in our next Federal election.
- Most Australian polling places are accessible - but not all. Make sure you do your research to find your local accessible polling place, or alternative voting options (like phone or mail in ballots)
Why enrolling matters
The election is an important opportunity for all of us to have our say on who it is that represents us going forward.
People with disability are significantly underrepresented in Australia, despite making up a substantial portion of the population — 1 in 5 people to be exact. This election provides a chance to address this issue. By enrolling, you can help increase political representation of people with disability.
Every vote helps to shape the future, and making sure your enrolment is up to date guarantees your voice is heard.
How to enrol
If you’re an Australian citizen and turn 18 before election day, you can enrol to vote and play an important role in Australia’s democracy. The good news? It’s quick and easy. But be quick, the electoral role closes on Monday 7 April 2025.
According to the Australian Electoral Commission’s website, enrolling online takes just a few minutes and ensures you can participate in elections at all levels of government. All you’ll need is to provide one of the following:
- Australian driver license number
- Australian passport number
- Medicare card details
- Australian citizenship number
- Someone who is currently enrolled to confirm your identity.
It’s important to note that 18+ or proof of age cards aren’t accepted.
Accessible voting
The AEC is committed to making voting accessible for everyone. For the 2025 federal election, they have significantly increased polling place accessibility.
You can check out the AEC website for detailed information on accessible voting options, and read on below for some information on what accessible voting looks like.
According to an AEC spokesperson, "43% of polling places will be fully wheelchair accessible, and a further 48% with assisted access."
In addition to physical accessibility, the AEC is also enhancing communication support. Virtual Auslan interpreting will be available on demand at all polling places, ensuring that voters who use Auslan can receive the assistance they need to participate in the voting process.
Polling place accessibility
- Accessible voting screens
- 2-person tables and seating options for assisted voting for people who want to be supported by a family member, friend or carer.
- Video Auslan interpreting, and some polling places have additional features like hearing loops and text-to-speech pens, and large print posters.
- Voters can be assisted by someone they nominate. AEC staff are trained to assist people with disability.
- Ballot papers can be brought outside for those unable to enter a polling place, such as being unable to get out of the car.
The AEC also offers accessible voting options for those unable to attend a polling place or vote on election day. These options include:
- Telephone voting for people who are blind or have low vision
- You can apply for a postal vote
- Mobile voting for those in remote areas or aged care facilities. For the first time in the next federal election, the AEC will be delivering mobile voting to residential establishments for people with disability.
With around 7,000 polling places available on election day, these improvements will help more people vote independently and with ease.
Your vote matters
Voting is a fundamental right and an opportunity to influence the future of our country. Whether you're voting for the first time or you're a seasoned voter, your participation is vital. We encourage everyone in the Hireup community to take the necessary steps to make sure they can vote in the upcoming election.
So, start planning today to have your say in Australia’s future.
