A fresh set of proposals from the Victorian Electoral Commission aims to remove practical barriers that can make voting difficult for some people, with changes that could reshape how Victorians access polling places in future elections.
The commission has lodged a submission to the Victorian Parliament Electoral Matters Committee as part of an inquiry examining how accessible voting centres are across the state. The document brings together earlier recommendations and new ideas designed to widen participation and make the voting process simpler for people who face obstacles when casting a ballot.
Some of the suggested reforms would require changes to legislation and could be introduced ahead of the 2030 state election if backed by Parliament.
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said improving access remains central to the commission’s role in supporting participation in the democratic process.
“Accessible voting is key to a fair and inclusive democracy,” Bluemmel said. “While some improvements will take time to implement, we are continuing work with Parliament, candidates and political parties to reduce barriers and make voting easier and more accessible for all Victorians.”
Among the legislative changes proposed is a move to allow publicly funded venues to serve as early voting centres. The commission argues that expanding the range of locations could help place polling facilities closer to communities that may otherwise struggle to reach them.
The submission also suggests larger non-campaigner zones around low sensory voting centres. These centres are designed to support voters who may be sensitive to noise, crowds or bright lighting. Increasing the buffer around them would limit campaign activity nearby and create a calmer environment for neurodivergent voters and their carers.
Another recommendation focuses on the timing of mobile voting services. The commission has proposed allowing mobile voting to begin before the early voting period, which it says would give priority communities better access. Mobile voting is typically used to reach people in settings such as aged care facilities, hospitals or remote locations.
Beyond legislative proposals, the commission outlined several improvements already being introduced. These include expanding low sensory voting options, publishing detailed guides that explain how to access certain polling places, and improving signage so voters can find entrances and navigate buildings more easily.
The submission also calls for adjustments to postal and telephone voting rules. One idea is to align Victoria’s eligibility criteria for general postal voter status with federal rules. Under the proposal, people with disability and their carers would have clearer access to ongoing postal voting arrangements.
The commission has also suggested widening access to electronically assisted voting through its telephone voting service. The system allows eligible voters to cast a ballot using a phone connection while maintaining ballot secrecy.
Under the proposal, eligibility could extend to people who are interstate or overseas during an election period, those who are unwell, carers supporting someone at home, people experiencing homelessness or family violence, and voters who are neurodivergent.
Bluemmel said the aim is to reduce practical hurdles that may prevent people from voting independently.
“Our focus is on removing practical barriers so that every eligible voter can participate safely, independently and with confidence,” he said.
The committee inquiry will review submissions and evidence before making recommendations to the Victorian Parliament. Any legislative change would require parliamentary approval before it could be introduced in a future election cycle.
The commission’s full submission has been made public and is available here.
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
