Victorians who didn’t vote in the October 2024 local council elections are now being issued penalty reminder notices, and the clock is ticking. The Victorian Electoral Commission has warned that those who ignore the notice could soon find their fines passed on to Fines Victoria for enforcement action.
Each penalty reminder adds $29.20 on top of the original $99 fine, pushing the total to $128.20. And that’s just the beginning if further action is taken.
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel urged people to act promptly.
“If you receive a penalty reminder notice in the mail, you have three options: pay the fine, request an internal review, or elect to go to court,” Mr Bluemmel said.
“Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or require further clarification, because once we hand it over to Fines Victoria for enforcement action, we are unable to further assist.”
Non-voters have 28 days from the date of the notice to respond.
Voting is compulsory in Victoria. While exceptions exist, such as for illness or valid travel reasons, the burden of explanation rests with the voter. Many of the infringements now being processed relate to voters who failed to respond to the initial notice asking for an explanation or exemption.
The VEC says it is available to support people through the process. Anyone unsure about their options or facing difficulty in responding is encouraged to call 1300 551 575 or visit vec.vic.gov.au/voting/fines-and-reviews.
Failure to act could mean further costs and legal consequences down the line.
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
