Primary school factsheet - enrolment

What does enrolment mean?

Enrolment means you can vote in elections.

How do people enrol?

You give your name and address to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)

You can do it online at www.aec.gov.au or you can fill out a paper form.

Your name and address are put on a list of names called the electoral roll. IF you move house or change your name you need to tell the AEC.

The AEC automatically enrols some people. They will write to tell you.

You cannot vote if your name is not on the electoral roll.

Do you have to enrol?

Yes, it is compulsory to enrol if you are:

• 18 years old or over, and
• An Australian citizen.

You can enrol early if you are between 16 and 18 years of age.

Do you have to vote?

Yes, you must vote if you are 18 or older.

You cannot vote if you are under 18 even if you have enrolled.

Why is it compulsory?

In Australia voting is a civic duty like paying taxes and going to school.

It is your right to choose the people who represent you in parliament.

Compulsory voting means everyone has a say about who is elected.

Can I see the electoral roll?

Yes, you can see the roll at Elections ACT or at Australian Electoral Commission offices.