Overview

• Early voting for the federal election began on April 22, allowing Australians to vote up to 12 days before election day on May 3.
• The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) anticipates between one-third and half of all votes will be cast early, reflecting a growing trend in pre-poll participation.
• Voters meeting specific eligibility criteria, such as being outside their electorate, ill, or unable to attend polling places, can vote early in person or by post, with postal applications due by April 30.
• Telephone voting is available from April 22 for voters with low vision and Australians stationed in remote locations like Antarctica.
• The rise in early voting has influenced campaign strategies, with parties adjusting the timing of major policy announcements to engage early voters.