Electoral Legislation Amendment (Counting, Scrutiny and Operational Efficiencies) 2021

# Electoral Legislation Amendment (Counting, Scrutiny and Operational Efficiencies) 2021 ## What it does This bill makes changes to how postal votes are handled and authenticated in Australian elections. It removes an outdated requirement (Section 188A) and updates the rules for people who can't vote in person — they can now provide a signed statement explaining why, along with a copy of their passport details, in one of three ways: with their ballot, in an official form, or in writing. ## Why it matters These changes make postal voting more flexible and practical for Australians who can't get to a polling booth. Rather than being locked into one rigid process, voters have options for how they provide their explanation and passport information, which should reduce rejected postal votes and make voting more accessible. ## Key details - **Passport verification**: People voting by post must now provide a certified copy (or approved form) of their passport showing the country, issue date, passport number, their name, date of birth, signature, and photo. - **Multiple submission methods**: The signed statement explaining why you can't vote in person can be submitted with your ballot, through an approved form, or simply in writing — giving voters flexibility. - **Effective immediately**: The changes come into effect the day after the bill receives Royal Assent, so they'll apply to the next election.

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament