RESIDENTS without access to a computer should be able to collect Voice referendum postal vote application forms from local post offices, Mallee MP Anne Webster said on Monday.
Dr Webster agreed with a Loddon Herald suggestion that the forms should be available in local towns after Australian Electoral Commission told voters in an information pack last week that applications were to be made online or by scanning a QR code.
“My office has received many inquiries from constituents seeking assistance with registering for postal voting due to technology or other literacy issues. It is important that every single eligible person is able to cast their vote – regardless of their access to or ability to use technology,” Dr Webster said.
”Postal vote applications at post offices or other centralised points would be worthwhile to ensure those who need to can make their application and be a part of the democratic process.”
More than one in 10 Mallee residents voted by postal vote at last year’s federal election.
Postal votes can be used by older residents although the AEC this week said it did not have data on age groups of electors choosing to apply to vote by post.
The Voice referendum on constitutional recognition of Aborigines will be held on October 14. Voting in the referendum is compulsory.
Latest opinion polls show national support for the referendum is in decline.