Enrol to vote and have your say in the Federal Election

7 April, 2016

Enrol to vote and have your say in the Federal Election
7 April 2016

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has urged Aboriginal people to enrol to vote in the upcoming Federal election.

NSWALC Chair Roy Ah-See said an election was required to be held before 14 January 2017 but a poll could be called at any time this year.

"Once the election is announced, people only have one week to enrol or update their details before the rolls close," he said.

Cr Ah-See said Federal Government policies have a major impact on Aboriginal people in New South Wales.

"The Federal Government is responsible for billions of dollars worth of programs in education, housing, training, health and other vital frontline services.

"Much of the focus from Canberra has been on efforts to close the gap. While there have been some modest improvements in addressing the appalling inequities faced by Aboriginal people, the fact remains that Aboriginal people die 10 years younger than the general population.

"Aboriginal people aged 18 years and over can vote and help keep our elected representatives accountable for the policies that impact on our lives - from health and education to constitutional recognition and partnerships with Aboriginal organisations

"Don't miss out on your chance to have your say on issues that affect you and your family," Cr Ah-See said.

Enrolment and voting facts

Before you can vote, you must be enrolled. If you are aged 16 or 17, you can enrol now to make sure you are set to vote when you turn 18.

Enrolling is easy - you can enrol or update your address online at www.aec.gov.au/Indigenous

You can collect forms at Australia Post or Electoral Commission offices. You'll need proof-of-ID (driver's licence, passport or someone already on the electoral roll who can confirm who you are).

If you move house or change your name, you need to update your enrolment details. This can be done online or by collecting a form at Australia Post or the Australian Electoral Commission.
 
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Media contact: Andrew Williams 0429 585 291

Acknowledgement

We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of the lands where we work as well as across the lands we travel through. We also acknowledge our Elders past, present and emerging.

Artwork Credit: Craig Cromelin, from a painting he did titled, "4 favourite fishing holes". It is a snippet of his growing years on the Lachlan River, featuring yabby, turtle, fish and family.

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