Enrolled residents of NSW should 'be vote ready'

Voting in person is set to open across NSW and voters are encouraged to take advantage of early voting options ahead of the local council elections on Saturday, 4 December 2021.

John Schmidt, NSW Electoral Commissioner, said applications for postal voting were already open and in-person voting would begin from Monday 22 November.

"Voters can plan when, where and how they’ll vote using information available on the NSW Electoral Commission website at elections.nsw.gov.au," he said.

"Whether it’s their nearest polling place, candidate information or options for voting early, NSW voters can find everything they need to know at our website with a quick search of their enrolled address."  

Mr Schmidt said that for the first time all voters are eligible to vote in person during the early voting (pre-poll) period and that in another first, iVote internet and telephone voting would be available at local government elections for electors meeting strict eligibility criteria.

"We know COVID-19 has been driving people to consider their voting options. Voter safety is paramount, as is ensuring every eligible voter in NSW has a chance to have their voice heard.

"All polling places will be run in line with COVID-safe election guidelines including mask wearing and physical distancing. Voters can bring their own pens and must check in using the Service NSW QR codes, and follow any NSW Health advice."

Applications for postal voting close at 5pm, Monday 29 November and postal ballot papers must be returned by 6pm, Friday 17 December.

Early voting centres will operate in each local government area from Monday 22 November until Friday 3 December. Voters are reminded absentee voting is not available at local government elections, and they must vote in their local government area or ward. 

Mr Schmidt said voting is compulsory for all enrolled electors and there are penalties for not voting.

"I encourage all voters to ‘be vote ready’ and consider their options ahead of December 4," he said.

For more information, call 1300 135 736 or go to elections.nsw.gov.au.

Penrith and Fairfield councils are conducting their own elections. Enquiries should be directed to these councils. Balranald Shire Council, Central Darling Shire Council, Central Coast Council and Wingecarribee Council are not having an election. 

Election funding enquiries for all councils should be directed to the NSW Electoral Commission.

General enquiries
1300 135 736

Media contact
nswecmedia@elections.nsw.gov.au