Some Ipswich residents will be voting twice after Queensland Premier Steven Miles called for a state election on Saturday, October 26.
A by-election for Ipswich Division 4 will also be held on the same day.
The writ for the state election and dissolution of state parliament was issued by Governor Dr Jeannette Young (AC) today.
Qld Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen wants voters to check that their enrolment details are current.
“People can visit the Australian Electoral Commission website at aec.gov.au to check their enrolment details are up to date or to enrol for the first time, especially those who will be turning 18 before October 26,” he says.
“Candidates are also encouraged to visit the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au to make sure they meet the criteria to nominate to represent their community.”
Nominations will open from 9am tomorrow (October 2) and close at 12noon on Tuesday, October 8.
Vidgen says there are now more options for voters to vote at a time convenient to them.
“People can vote by postal vote or vote early in person during extended hours from 8am to 6pm on weekdays from October14-25 at any early voting centre in Queensland,” he says.
Early voting will be available on weekdays from Monday, October 14, to Friday, October 25.
BY-ELECTION
Meanwhile, candidate nominations have opened for the Ipswich Division 4 by-election which will be held on the same day as the State election (October 26).
The by-election was prompted by former councillor David Cullen’s resignation due to ill health.
“I urge all potential candidates who are considering contesting this by-election, to ensure they confirm their eligibility and complete the necessary online training by 12 noon on Tuesday, October 8,” he says.
He says Division 4 residents must vote in the Ipswich City Council area or at the Brisbane City Hall polling place and will be voting in to elections.
“This of course means they are voting in two elections – for Ipswich City Council’s Division 4 and the State election,” he said.
“When you enter a Division 4 polling place, you will receive two ballot papers. If you bring your maroon Voter Information Card it will streamline the process.
“All the details of the voting process will be on the ECQ website in coming weeks at ecq.qld.gov.au including locations of early voting centres and election day polling booths.
“Remember it’s compulsory to vote and if residents are unsure if they are enrolled correctly, this can be checked by visiting aec.gov.au.”