Have you enrolled to vote? You must be correctly enrolled by 8pm local time Monday 7 April 2025.
Starting university is a big step towards independence and for many, it coincides with enrolling to vote for the first time. If you’re an Australian citizen aged 18 or over it is compulsory to vote. A failure to vote may result in you receiving a fine.
But voting is important because it’s a chance for you to have your say in the decisions that affect your future.
The date of the 2025 Australian federal election has been called for 3 May. Now that the election has been called, enrolments will close fast. Here’s what you need to know about getting enrolled.
Why enrol?
Voting in Australia is compulsory and failing to enrol or vote without a valid reason can lead to fines. But more importantly, voting allows you to have a say in decisions that shape your future, from education and healthcare to climate policy and employment.
You must sign up (enrol) to vote, it does not happen automatically.
Who needs to enrol
If you are an Australian citizen and 18 years old and over, you are required by law to enrol to vote. You can also enrol if you are 16 or 17 so that you’ll be ready to vote as soon as you turn 18.
How to enrol
Enrolling to vote for the first time is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
- Go to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) website
Visit www.aec.gov.au to access the online enrolment form
- Provide your details
You’ll need to enter your full name, date of birth and address
- Provide proof of identity
You can use your driver’s license, Medicare card, passport number or have someone who is enrolled confirm your identity
- Submit your application
Complete the process online or print and send the form via mail if necessary
What happens if I’m overseas?
If you are going overseas for a short period of time you will need to enrol first. If you are already enrolled and travelling or intend to travel overseas, see information about Australians overseas.
Other ways to enrol
The AEC has options for people that require assistance or with specific circumstances that may affect their enrolment. See special category enrolment options.
Updating your details (if you’re already enrolled)
If you’ve recently moved for university, changed your name or need to update your details, you must update your enrolment. This ensures you are correctly registered to vote in your electorate.
Key deadlines
Enrolment deadlines close shortly after an election is announced (which is due to happen soon) so it’s best to enrol now and keep your details updated. Check the AEC website regularly for upcoming election dates and deadlines.
Tip: Don’t leave it until the last minute! Enrolling now ensures you’re ready to participate in shaping Australia’s future.
Okay I’ve now enrolled to vote, what happens next?
Once you’re enrolled, you’ll receive an enrolment confirmation and details on when and where to vote during elections. On election day, you can vote in person at a polling place or apply for a postal or early vote if needed.
Have any more questions?
If you have any questions, the AEC website has all the information you need. See below other handy resources:
- Office For Youth – Voting
https://www.youth.gov.au/life-stuff/voting