Referendums and polls
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What is a referendum?
A referendum is when voters are asked to answer 'yes' or 'no' to a particular question or questions. Voting in referendums is compulsory for enrolled voters.
Federal
At a federal level, there are a number of different types of referendums. The most common is a constitutional referendum held by the Australian Parliament to make changes to the Australian Constitution.
Federal referendums are conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission.
State
At a state level, a referendum may be held to:
find out voters' opinions on certain issues
change certain parts of the state constitution
seek voter approval for a Bill that has reached a state of deadlock between the two Houses of Parliament.
In a state referendum, voters are usually required to tick either 'Yes' or 'No' on the ballot paper.
Local
At a local level, a referendum is held when a council wants to:
change the basis on which the mayor attains office
increase or reduce the number of councillors
divide the council area into wards or abolish all wards
change the method of ordinary election of councillors, for an area divided into wards.
In a local government referendum, voters are usually required to tick either 'Yes' or 'No' on the ballot paper.
What is a poll?
A poll may be held at the same time as a local government election on any issue. This is usually done to test whether people support or oppose a proposed action on an issue.
Voting in a poll is not compulsory and the result is not binding on the council.