Voting overseas

Last Updated
Friday, 01/11/2024

 

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Federal elections

The next federal election is due to occur sometime between now and May 2025. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) will contact Australians who have registered with the AEC that they are currently overseas to provide more information about overseas voting. Overseas electors are encouraged to check their enrolment details, overseas postal address and overseas phone number are up to date.

If you're overseas on the day of a federal election, you can:

Voting is compulsory in Australia. But being overseas is a valid reason for not voting. If you can't vote because you're overseas, tell the AEC. If you don't tell them, they'll write to you asking you to explain why you didn't vote.

Check your enrolment

If an election is announced while you're overseas, check with the AEC:

  • the enrolment deadlines
  • your enrolment status
  • your details on the electoral roll
  • overseas voting options.

To vote while overseas, you must be on the electoral roll. To check your enrolment, use the AEC website.

See the AEC's information on enrolling to vote overseas.

Voting by post

You can only apply for a postal vote after the election is announced. 

If you're registered as a General Postal Voter, you don't need to re-apply for a postal vote for the election. You'll automatically receive a postal vote pack in the mail. The AEC will start sending postal vote packs after the candidates are known and the ballot papers produced. 

If you're living or working overseas, you may be able to register as an overseas elector. You must intend to return to Australia within 6 years and have an Australian address to register. You can choose to become a General Postal Voter at the time of registering or at a separate time.

Voting at an Australian embassy or consulate

You can vote at some Australian embassies or consulates overseas. The AEC provides a list of places where you can vote when an election is called.

Not all embassies or consulates can take votes. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate to find out:

  • if they are offering in-person voting
  • their opening dates and hours for voting
  • if you need to make an appointment to vote
  • their security or entry requirements, especially in high-risk locations

Check your enrolment before going to vote. You need to know which Australian address you're enrolled at to get the correct ballot papers.

State and territory elections

Some states and territories allow overseas voting. Others don't or may only allow specific voting methods.

Check the electoral commission website for your state or territory for more information.

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