The date’s locked in. Australia heads to the polls on Saturday 3 May for the 2025 federal election, and the countdown has well and truly begun. But unless your enrolment is up to date, your say won’t count.
Every Australian citizen aged 18 and over is required by law to vote—and there are no excuses come polling day if you’ve missed the enrolment deadline. Acting Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope put it plainly: “Voting gives you a chance to have your say on the issues you care about. If you’re not enrolled, you won’t be able to vote in the 2025 federal election.”
The last day to enrol or update your details is 8pm on Monday 7 April. You can do it in under five minutes online at the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) website. If you prefer a paper form, pop into any AEC office and pick one up. But make sure you return it before the deadline.
For voters from non-English speaking backgrounds, help is close at hand. The AEC offers support in dozens of languages through its telephone interpreter service at 1300 720 153, where you can get information on how to enrol or update your details in your preferred language.
And it’s not just about turning up on the day. While most Australians will vote in person at their local polling station, the AEC recognises that life doesn’t always run to schedule. Whether you’re working, travelling, caring for others or dealing with health issues, there are alternatives.
If you plan to vote by post, your application needs to be in by 6pm on Wednesday 30 April. And don’t leave it to the last minute—postal delays can mean your vote doesn’t make it back in time to count. There’s also early voting for those who qualify, and a dedicated telephone voting service for people who are blind or have low vision.
Over the next few weeks, you won’t be able to miss the AEC’s push to get Australians engaged. From television and radio spots to digital campaigns and newspaper ads, the reminders will be everywhere. A voter guide will also land in around 11.8 million letterboxes across the country, outlining everything from how to cast your vote to where to find your local polling booth.
“This campaign includes information about how to participate in the federal election in 34 languages,” Mr Pope added, pointing to the wide-reaching community education effort already underway.
If you’re wondering whether your details are still correct, don’t assume. Maybe you moved house last year or changed your name. Maybe you just forgot to check. Either way, visit aec.gov.au or call 1300 720 153 to make sure you’re on the roll—and ready.
Because come 3 May, it’s not just a right. It’s the law.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
