Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper
formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Contents
Introduction3
Ballot paper formality tests
4
Authentic ballot papers
4
Ballot paper alteration by polling officials
4
Alteration by polling officials
5
Identification of voter
6
Ballot paper formality principles
7
Lawful numbering sequence
7
House of Representatives guidelines 8
Consecutive series of numbers
8
Overwriting 9
Acceptable forms of numbering
10
Empty boxes
11
Placement of votes
12
Variations in handwriting
13
Candidate name substitution
14
Senate guidelines
15
Consecutive series of numbers
15
Overwriting 18
Acceptable forms of numbering
19
Empty boxes
21
Placement of votes
22
Variations in handwriting
24
Candidate name substitution
25
Referendum guidelines
26
Referendum ballot paper tests
26
Use of multiple marks
27
Change to wording on ballot paper
28
Use of figures on ballot paper
29
Ballot papers with more than one question
30
Feedback31
Feedback welcome
31
Glossary32
Page 2 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Introduction
When undertaking checks on whether a Senate, House of Representatives (HoR) or
Referendum ballot paper is formal or informal, three questions should be asked:
■■
■■
■■
Is the ballot paper authentic?
Does the ballot paper identify the voter?
Does the ballot paper contain a lawful numbering sequence? (for HoR and Senate), or
Does the ballot paper show that the voter’s intention to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ is clear? (for a
referendum)
When making decisions on disputed ballot papers, decision makers should attempt to look
at as many disputed ballot papers as possible at the same time. This assists with consistent
application of the principles in decision making.
If necessary consult with senior management in state or national office (excluding the
Australian Electoral Officer (AEO) who may need to be the decision maker if a recount is held)
for guidance on ballot paper formality. If required, legal advice can be sought.
Officers in Charge (OICs) and polling place officials conducting the scrutiny are to include any
ballot paper where they are unsure of formality with other informal ballot papers, as all informal
ballot papers are checked by the Divisional Returning Officer (DRO).
Note: For the purposes of this document, reference to the decision of formality by the DRO also
includes OIC and AEO.
Central Senate Scrutiny
Any Senate ballot papers which are marked below the line or are of questionable formality and
complexity will be assessed at a later stage through a data entry process called Central Senate
Scrutiny. Central Senate Scrutiny is conducted after election night. Above the line ballot papers
are manually counted, however, because below the line formality principles are complex it is
not expected that staff will be required to spend large amounts of time trying to determine the
formality of these Senate ballot papers on election night.
Page 3 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Ballot paper formality tests
All ballot papers will be required to undergo two tests before progressing through formality
checking. Failure of either of these tests will result in an informal ballot paper and no further
formality checking will be required.
■■
■■
Is the ballot paper authentic?
Does the ballot paper identify the voter?
Authentic ballot papers
Generally a ballot paper will carry an official mark (watermark or printed security pattern) and
the initials of the issuing officer. However, ballot papers that do not carry these markings are
not necessarily informal.
If an OIC is unsure of the authenticity of a ballot paper, such ballot papers should be presented
to the DRO to decide on formality.
Ballot paper alteration by polling officials
If a ballot paper does not contain the initials of the issuing officer or an official mark, the OIC
must refer the ballot paper to the DRO.
A fully printed ballot paper for a division may be altered to become a ballot paper for another
division (i.e. the names of the candidates are crossed out by the issuing officer and the names
of candidates for the other division are written in their place).
Where ballot papers have been altered by polling officials the vote is still formal if:
■■
■■
■■
■■
the political party names are not all correctly listed, for example the wrong party names
are listed against the candidates or the party names are not listed.
a ballot paper has the names of any candidate spelt incorrectly, provided the identity of
the candidate is still clear.
the ballot paper has the names of the candidates in the wrong order.
the candidates surname is only listed on the altered ballot paper, as long as no two
candidates share a surname.
However, irrespective of the way the voter has voted, the ballot paper is informal if:
■■
■■
an altered ballot paper does not contain the names of every candidate for the division.
the candidate’s given names only are listed on the altered ballot paper.
Page 4 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Alteration by polling officials
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to48 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to48 in the
order of your choice.
DIVISION NAME MAYO
3
CURZON, Sam
1
JELLICOE, Tom
2
FLETCHER, Susan
4
DUNMORE, Avril
DIVISION NAME MAYO
NGUYEN
INDEPENDENT
3
CURZON, Sam
BROWN
NATIONALS
1
JELLICOE, Tom
2
FLETCHER, Susan
4
DUNMORE, Avril
LABOR
THE GREENS
N LY
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
INDEPENDENT
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – ballot paper alteration by polling official
STEWART
FAMILY FIRST
LABOR
POINTER
LABOR
INDEPENDENT
NGUYEN
INDEPENDENT
LABOR
BROWN
NATIONALS
THE GREENS
LABOR
FERNSIDE, Alex
FERNSIDE, Alex
KIRKPATRICK, Tod
KIRKPATRICK, Tod
EVANS, Sebastion
EVANS, Sebastion
LDP
NATIONALS
FAMILY FIRST
OLESON, Estelle
DEMOCRATS
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
POINTER
LABOR
LDP
NATIONALS
FAMILY FIRST
OLESON, Estelle
DEMOCRATS
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is informal
All surnames are different.
There is no name beside the third box.
That is, the ballot paper has been altered with the
candidates’ surnames only and no two candidates
share a surname.
Page 5 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Identification of voter
A ballot paper that has been marked in a way that could identify the voter should be presented
to the DRO to decide on formality.
OICs who are unsure about the formality of a ballot paper due to identifying marks should
consider it informal, allowing the DRO to decide on formality.
STATE
N LY
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
DIVISION NAME
DIVISION NAME
2
SURNAME, Given names
2
SURNAME, Given names
1
SURNAME, Given names
1
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
INDEPENDENT
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – ballot paper that may identify a voter
u
s for yo
M.P vote
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
for you
I voted
Twaide
Gordon
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper may be formal
This ballot paper may be informal
If, in the opinion of the DRO there is not enough
information to identify the voter the ballot paper
is formal.
If, in the opinion of the DRO, there is sufficient
writing on the ballot paper to uniquely identify the
voter, the ballot paper is informal.
These examples of identification of a voter also apply to Senate and referendum ballot papers.
Page 6 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Ballot paper formality principles
There are five overarching principles that must be considered when interpreting the numbers
on any ballot paper that has passed the initial two tests. They are:
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
Start from the assumption that the voter has intended to vote formally
The assumption needs to be made that an elector who has marked a ballot paper has
done so with the intention to cast a formal vote.
Establish the intention of the voter and give effect to this intention
When interpreting markings on the ballot paper, these must be considered in line with
the intention of the voter.
Err in favour of the franchise
In the situation where the voter has tried to submit a formal vote, i.e. the ballot paper is
not blank or defaced, doubtful question of form should wherever possible, be resolved in
the voter’s favour.
Only have regard to what is written on the ballot paper
The intention of the voter must be unmistakeable, i.e. do not assume what the voter was
trying to do if it’s not clear – only consider what was written on the ballot paper.
The ballot paper should be construed as a whole
By considering the number in each square as one in a series, not as an isolated number,
a poorly formed number MAY be recognisable as the one missing from the series.
Lawful numbering sequence
House of Representatives and Senate ballot papers have different numbering sequence
requirements. Whether a numbering sequence is lawful will depend on the type of ballot paper.
However, there are some general principles that apply to the assessment of all ballot papers:
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
consecutive series of numbers
overwriting
acceptable forms of numbering
empty boxes
placement of votes
variations in handwriting, and
candidate name substitution.
Page 7 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
House of Representatives guidelines
Consecutive series of numbers
A House of Representatives ballot paper is only formal if the voter has indicated a first
preference and consecutively numbered all boxes. A number in the series may not be repeated
or skipped.
If one box is left blank and all other boxes have been numbered in a consecutive sequence
starting with the number ‘1’, the ballot paper is formal.
Alterations to numbers will not make a ballot paper informal, provided the voter’s intention is
clear, for example a number can be crossed out and another number written beside it.
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
DIVISION NAME
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
N LY
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
INDEPENDENT
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – consecutive numbering
DIVISION NAME
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is formal
There are eight consecutive numbers reasonably
discernable.
The third box is an overwritten ‘3’, the fourth box is
an overwritten ‘4’.
Page 8 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Overwriting
If a number is overwritten in a way that makes it impossible to read, then the ballot paper is
informal.
OF F
N LY
Example – overwritten ballot paper
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
DIVISION NAME
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
SURNAME, Given names
INDEPENDENT
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is informal
The overwriting in the second square is indecipherable.
Page 9 Ballot paper formality guidelines
O
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Acceptable forms of numbering
Example – numbering
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
DIVISION NAME
DIVISION NAME
SURNAME, Given names
x
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
2
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
1
four
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
N LY
STATE
STATE
two
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Ticks ( ) or crosses ( ) are not acceptable forms
of voting for House of Representatives and will
result in informality.
OF F
OF F
N LY
In certain cases a mixture of numbering sequences
can be used, provided that the voter’s intention is
clear.
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is informal
Numbers can be written as words or figures.
An ‘X’ is not a valid first preference mark for House
of Representatives ballot papers.
Two Candidates only
In the case of only two candidates on a ballot paper, if the voter has placed a ‘1’ in the box
beside a candidate and
■■
■■
left the second box blank, or
inserted any other number
the ballot paper will be deemed formal (Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 s.268).
Page 10 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Empty boxes
For House of Representative ballot papers a single box may be left empty provided it is the last
in the series and on the condition there is no marking in the box at all. A scribble or dot etc in
the final box will result in informality if it is not recognisable as the next number in the series.
Two or more empty boxes on a House of Representatives ballot paper results in an
informal vote.
STATE
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
DIVISION NAME
DIVISION NAME
SURNAME, Given names
1
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
2
SURNAME, Given names
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME, Given names
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is informal
This ballot paper is informal
No discernable figure in the eighth square.
There are two empty boxes.
Page 11 Ballot paper formality guidelines
N LY
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – empty boxes on ballot paper
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Placement of votes
The vote can be made inside the box or beside the box/candidate name, provided the intention
of the voter is clear.
STATE
N LY
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – placement of votes
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
6
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
2
1
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
1
5
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
4
4
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
5
3
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
3
2
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
6
8
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
7
DIVISION NAME
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
DIVISION NAME
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is formal
The figure in the eighth square reasonably
resembles a ‘7’.
There is a consecutive series of discernable
numbers beginning with ‘1’, and the voter’s
intention is clear.
Page 12 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Variations in handwriting
Unconventional but recognisable variations in handwriting, such as placing a stroke through the
vertical stem of the number ‘7’ or an upward angular stroke before the familiar vertical stroke
on the number ‘1’, should not result in a ballot paper being informal, provided any variations
result in a series of numbers and the voter’s intention is clear.
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
SURNAME, Given names
DIVISION NAME
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
N LY
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
INDEPENDENT
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – variations in handwriting
DIVISION NAME
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is formal
The figure in the fourth box reasonably
resembles a ‘1’.
There is a consecutive series of discernable
numbers beginning with ‘1’, and the voter’s
intention is clear.
Page 13 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Candidate name substitution
If the voter crosses out or replaces a candidate’s name on a ballot paper, that ballot paper is
informal.
Note that this does not include cases where a fully printed ballot paper is altered to become a
ballot paper for another division by a polling official.
If a candidate name has been added to the ballot paper by the voter and been allocated any
number except the last number, the vote is informal.
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
Number the boxes
from 1 to 8 in the
order of your choice.
2
SURNAME, Given names
1
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
9
Donald Duck
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
DIVISION NAME
DIVISION NAME
2
SURNAME, Given names
2
SURNAME, Given names
1
SURNAME, Given names
9
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
4
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
5
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
3
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
6
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
8
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
7
SURNAME, Given names
INDEPENDENT
Donald Duck
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
N LY
STATE
ELECTORAL DIVISION OF
DIVISION NAME
O
N LY
O
O
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
STATE
OF F
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
I
I
CI
AL USE
BALLOT PAPER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF F
OF F
N LY
Example – candidate name substitution
Micky Mouse
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
1
Donald Duck
Remember...number every box
to make your vote count.
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is informal
This ballot paper is informal
The voter has indicated
consecutive preferences for all
nominated candidates.
The voter has not indicated a
preference for all the candidates
in the election.
The voter has not indicated a
valid first preference.
Page 14 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Senate guidelines
Consecutive series of numbers
Above the line
A Senate ballot paper is formal above the line if the voter has indicated a first preference
against one of the squares. They may number all boxes above the line but can only indicate a
single first preference for the vote to be formal.
Below the line
There is a complicated set of rules surrounding below the line informality. All below the line
papers are processed through the computerised Central Senate Scrutiny where the rules are
applied to determine formality or otherwise.
A Senate ballot paper is formal below the line if:
■■
■■
■■
a first preference is shown by the number ‘1’ marked in the square opposite the name of
one, and only one, candidate; and
where there are 10 or more candidates, not less than 90 per cent of the squares
opposite the names of candidates on the ballot paper are numbered as required, or
would be if no more than three numbers were changed; or
where there are nine or fewer candidates, all squares opposite the names of candidates
on the ballot paper (or all but one of these squares with only one square left blank) are
numbered as required, or would be if not more than two numbers were changed.
Central Senate Scrutiny
Any Senate ballot papers which are marked below the line or are of questionable formality and
complexity will be assessed at a later stage through a data entry process called Central Senate
Scrutiny. Central Senate Scrutiny is conducted after election night. Above the line ballot papers
are manually counted, however, because below the line formality principles are complex it is
not expected that staff will be required to spend large amounts of time trying to determine the
formality of these Senate ballot papers on election night.
Page 15 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Example – above the line Senate vote
B
2
C
3
or
D
1
or
O
A L US E
E
4
or
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
5
or
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
The voter’s intention is clear. There is a single first preference mark above the line.
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
Or:
1
C
or
or
D
1
A L US E
O
CI
I
Above the line
Election of 6 Senators
B
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is informal
Two number ‘1s’ above the line indicates two first preferences. The voter’s intention is unclear.
Page 16 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Example – below the line Senate vote
C
or
D
or
A L US E
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
14
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
8
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
5
SURNAME
Given names
11
SURNAME
Given names
4
SURNAME
Given names
15
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
9
SURNAME
Given names
6
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
10
SURNAME
Given names
13 Given names
12
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
1
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
7
3
SURNAME
Given names
16
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
There are 10 or more candidates and the voter has indicated a first preference and consecutively numbered at
least 90 per cent of all boxes.
Page 17 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Overwriting
If a number is overwritten in a way that makes it impossible to read, then the ballot paper is
informal.
Example – overwritten ballot paper – below the line Senate
C
or
D
or
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
1
SURNAME
Given names
8
SURNAME
Given names
14
SURNAME
Given names
3
SURNAME
Given names
10
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
17
SURNAME
Given names
12
SURNAME
Given names
13
SURNAME
Given names
15
SURNAME
Given names
9
SURNAME
Given names
4
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
16
SURNAME
Given names
11
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
7
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
Even though the voter has overwritten two numbers, their intention is still clear.
Page 18 Ballot paper formality guidelines
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Acceptable forms of numbering
For voting below the line in the Senate, voters may use a consecutive series in various styles
– such as: numerals (1 2 3), words (one two three), roman numerals (I II III IV), or ordinal
numerals (1st 2nd 3rd). In certain cases, a mixture of numbering sequences can be used,
provided that the voter’s intention is clear.
Example – numbering – below the line Senate
C
or
D
or
A L US E
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
You maY vote in
one of two waYs
E
or
or
Party
Party
Party
Party
A
Party
B
Party
C
Party
D
Party
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
I
Surname
Given names
8
Surname
Given names
14
Surname
Given names
III Given names
V
Surname
Given names
11
Surname
Given names
10
Surname
Given names
II
Surname
Given names
17
Surname
Given names
12
Surname
Given names
16
Surname
Given names
7
Surname
Given names
13
Surname
Given names
15
Surname
Given names
9
Surname
Given names
IV
Surname
Given names
6
Surname
Given names
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
pARtY
Surname
pARtY
pARtY
Independent
Independent
pARtY
pARtY
This ballot paper is formal
C
or
D
or
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
This ballot paper is informal
Page 19 Ballot paper formality guidelines
1
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
3
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
1
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
3
SURNAME
Given names
4
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
1
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
3
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
1
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
3
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
1
SURNAME
Given names
1
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
If an OIC is uncertain about a mixture of numbering sequences below the line, the ballot paper
should be set aside and referred to Central Senate Scrutiny.
Example – use of symbols – above the line Senate
For voting above the line in the Senate ticks ( ) or crosses ( ) are acceptable forms of voting. Only one tick
or cross may be used to indicate the voter’s preference. Ticks or crosses used below the line will result in
informality.
or
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
Or:
C
D
or
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
O
x
or
PARTY
A L US E
E
or
PARTY
CI
I
Election of 6 Senators
B
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
There is a single first preference mark above the line.
or
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
Or:
C
x
or
D
√
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is informal
There are two first preference marks above the line.
Page 20 Ballot paper formality guidelines
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
O
CI
I
Election of 6 Senators
B
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Empty boxes
As indicated previously, voters only have to complete one box above the line or a minimum of
90 per cent of the boxes below the line.
In certain circumstances, empty boxes or other errors which occur within the first 90 percent of
boxes below the line, will still be formal.
Ballot papers marked below the line should be set aside by the OIC and referred to Central
Senate Scrutiny.
Example – empty boxes on ballot paper – below the line Senate
B
C
or
D
or
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
14
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
8
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
5
SURNAME
Given names
11
SURNAME
Given names
4
SURNAME
Given names
15
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
9
SURNAME
Given names
6
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
This ballot paper is informal
90 per cent of the boxes have not been correctly filled.
Page 21 Ballot paper formality guidelines
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
10
SURNAME
Given names
13 Given names
12
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
1
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
7
3
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
A
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Placement of votes
The vote can be made inside the box or beside the box/candidate name on a Senate ballot
paper, provided the intention of the voter is clear.
Example – placement of votes – below the line Senate
C
or
D
or
A L US E
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
6
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
17
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
1
SURNAME
Given names
12
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
8
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
13
SURNAME
Given names
15
SURNAME
Given names
5
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
4
3
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
14
SURNAME
Given names
9
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
16
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
11
7
10
This ballot paper is formal
There is a consecutive series of discernable numbers beginning with ‘1’, and the voter’s intention is clear.
Page 22 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Example – placement of votes – above the line Senate
or
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
Or:
C
D
or
A L US E
E
1 or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
The voter’s intention is clear.
Page 23 Ballot paper formality guidelines
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
O
CI
I
Election of 6 Senators
B
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Variations in handwriting
Unconventional but recognisable variations in handwriting, such as placing a stroke through the
vertical stem of the number ‘7’ or an upward angular stroke before the familiar vertical stroke
on the number ‘1’, should not result in a ballot paper being informal, provided any variations
result in a series of numbers and the voter’s intention is obvious.
Example – variations in handwriting – above the line Senate
or
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
Or:
C
D
or
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is formal
The figure in the third box reasonably resembles a ‘1’.
Page 24 Ballot paper formality guidelines
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
O
CI
I
Election of 6 Senators
B
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Candidate name substitution
If the voter crosses out or replaces a political party or group’s name or a candidate’s name on a
ballot paper, that ballot paper is informal.
Example – candidate name substitution – above the line Senate
C
or
PARTY
1
or
PARTY
D
O
A L US E
E
or
PARTY
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
or
PARTY
Mickey Mouse
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
This ballot paper is informal
The voter has not indicated a valid first preference for any of the available candidates.
Example – candidate name substitution – below the line Senate
C
or
D
or
A L US E
E
or
or
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
A
PARTY
B
PARTY
C
PARTY
D
PARTY
E
Ungrouped
Below the line
By placing the numbers 1 to 17
in the order of your preference
14
SURNAME
Given names
2
SURNAME
Given names
8
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
5
SURNAME
Given names
11
SURNAME
Given names
4
SURNAME
Given names
15
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
9
SURNAME
Given names
6
SURNAME
Given names
17
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
PARTY
10
SURNAME
Given names
13 Given names
12
SURNAME
Given names
SURNAME
Given names
1
SURNAME
Given names
PARTY
PARTY
SURNAME
7
3
SURNAME
Given names
16
SURNAME
Given names
INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT
PARTY
Mickey Mouse
PARTY
This ballot paper is informal
The voter has not indicated a valid first preference for any of the available candidates.
Page 25 Ballot paper formality guidelines
O
I
Or:
CI
Election of 6 Senators
B
Above the line
By placing the single figure 1 in
one and only one of these squares
to indicate the voting ticket you wish
to adopt as your vote
OF F
Either:
State
A
NL
Y
Senate Ballot Paper
YOU MAY VOTE IN
ONE OF TWO WAYS
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Referendum guidelines
Referendum ballot paper tests
A voter filling in a referendum ballot paper is obliged to indicate their vote by either:
■■
■■
writing the word ‘yes’ on the ballot paper in the space provided if the voter approves the
proposed law, or
writing the word ‘no’ on the ballot paper in the space provided if the voter does not
approve the proposed law.
The prescribed method of recording a vote in a referendum is to use the words ‘yes’ or ‘no’
written alone (i.e. without qualification). In all cases, however, ballot papers must be admitted
where the voter’s intention is clear [s93(8) R(MP)A]. Words with the same meaning as ‘yes’
or ‘no’ (e.g. ‘definitely’ or ‘never’) as well as ticks are all capable of clearly demonstrating the
voter’s intention.
A vote at a referendum will be informal if any of the following apply:
■■
■■
■■
■■
no vote is marked on the ballot paper [s93(1)(b) R(MP)A]
it has more than one vote mark on the ballot paper that conflicts with each
other [s93(1)(c) R(MP)A]
terms are used that convey indecision and uncertainty, such as ‘I guess so’ or ‘not sure’,
or
a cross is used on a referendum ballot paper which has only one question, since a cross
on its own may mean either ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
A ballot paper is not informal merely because a ballot paper with the wrong state or territory
was issued to the voter.
Page 26 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Use of multiple marks
Where a voter has marked a ballot paper in numerous ways, the vote is formal as long as
conflicting answers have not been given. For example, a tick and a ‘yes’ in the one box will be
formal, as the intention of the voter is to indicate approval for the question.
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
A L US E
BALLOT PAPER
BALLOT PAPER
BALLOT PAPER
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
O
NL
Y
CI
O
O
A L US E
I
Commonwealth of Australia
OF F
CI
I
I
A L US E
OF F
OF F
CI
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
Example – use of multiple marks
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
Yes √
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
No x
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
Ok x
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is formal
This ballot paper is informal
The intention of the voter is clear
that they approve.
The intention of the voter is clear
that they disapprove.
The intention of the voter is
not clear.
Page 27 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Change to wording on ballot paper
If the voter changes the wording of the referendum question, whether by adding or deleting
words, the voter’s intention regarding the question is made unclear and the vote is informal.
I
A L US E
O
OF F
CI
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
Example – change to wording on ballot paper
BALLOT PAPER
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
Do you want
a free meal?
This ballot paper is informal
The intention of the voter unclear.
Page 28 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Yes
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Use of figures on ballot paper
If a voter marks a ballot paper with words, symbols or figures in a language other than
English, for example roman numerals, the ballot paper can be accepted if it is established
that the voter’s intention is clear to the DRO as the decision maker. The DRO is not required to
investigate or research the matter further if the intention is not clear.
I
A L US E
O
OF F
CI
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
Example – use of figures on ballot paper
BALLOT PAPER
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
This ballot paper is informal
The intention of the voter is not clear.
Page 29 Ballot paper formality guidelines

WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Ballot papers with more than one question
Referendum ballot papers with more than one question require each question to be considered
as if it was on a standalone ballot paper, i.e. it is possible for the answer to one question to be
formal and the answer to another question to be informal.
On referendum ballot papers with two or more questions, crosses are also capable of clearly
demonstrating the voter’s intention, but are only formal if at least one other question on the
same ballot paper is answered with a tick.
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
A L US E
BALLOT PAPER
BALLOT PAPER
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
Referendum on proposed
Constitution alterations
O
O
CI
I
I
A L US E
OF F
OF F
CI
Commonwealth of Australia
NL
Y
Example – ballot paper with more than one question
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
DIRECTIONS TO VOTER
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
Write “YES” or “NO” in the
space provided opposite the
question set out below.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
√
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
x
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
x
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
A PROPOSED LAW:
Description of the proposed
constitutional change.
Do you approve
this proposed
alteration?
x
WRITE “YES”
OR “NO”
This ballot paper is formal for both questions
This ballot paper is informal for both questions
The voters intention is clear having used a tick and
a cross.
The voters intention is not clear having used
two crosses.
Page 30 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Feedback
Feedback welcome
The AEC welcomes your views on the usefulness of the Ballot paper formality guidelines and
any specific information provided in these pages. We invite you to send your feedback by email
to elections@aec.gov.au with the subject line ‘Feedback on ballot paper formality guidelines’.
Page 31 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Glossary
Australian Electoral
Commission (AEC)
The independent statutory authority established in 1984 to maintain
and update the Commonwealth electoral roll, raise public awareness
and conduct federal elections and referendums.
Australian Electoral
Officer (AEO)
The AEC’s chief manager in each state and the Northern Territory.
An AEO for the Australian Capital Territory is only appointed for each
election period. The AEO is the returning officer for the Senate in
their state or territory.
By-election
An election held to fill a vacancy in the House of Representatives
resulting from death, resignation, absence without leave, expulsion,
disqualification or ineligibility of a member.
Candidate
A person standing for election to the Senate or House of
Representatives.
Commonwealth
Electoral Act 1918
The legislation governing the Commonwealth electoral process.
Divisional Returning
Officer (DRO)
The AEC officer responsible for conducting the election in each
division. The DROs are the returning officers for the House of
Representatives in their divisions.
Divisions (electorates)
For representation in the House of Representatives, Australia is
divided into voting areas known as divisions or electorates. One
member is elected from each division.
(For representation in the Senate, each state and territory is one
electorate. All states are multi-member electorates and have the
same number of Senators. Territory representation is determined by
the federal parliament)
Early vote
A postal vote or a vote cast at an early voting centre, an AEC
divisional office or via a mobile polling team in the lead-up to
election day. They are cast by electors who will not be able to get to
a polling place on election day.
Page 32 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Ballot paper formality guidelines
Electoral and
Referendum
Regulations 1940
Regulations that support the operation of the Commonwealth
Electoral Act 1918 and the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act
1984.
Electoral
Commissioner
The officer who performs the functions of the chief executive officer
of the AEC.
Fresh scrutiny
A re-check of votes cast conducted by the DRO in the days following
election day.
House of
Representatives
(HoR)
One of two houses of the federal Parliament of Australia, whose
members are elected on a population basis.
Informal
A ballot paper is generally considered informal if it is not filled out
correctly in accordance with the Act and the instructions on the
ballot paper. It cannot therefore be included in the scrutiny.
Issuing officers
Polling officials who issue ordinary ballot papers to electors whose
names are found on the certified list of voters, mark the certified list,
complete the account of ballot papers and assist with the count of
ballot papers after the close of the poll.
Issuing point
The part of the polling place where ballot papers are issued to
electors.
Officer-in-charge (OIC)
The officer who is in charge at a polling place. They are called
‘presiding officers’ during polling (8am to 6pm). From 6pm, during
the scrutiny, they are called the Assistant Returning Officer.
Ordinary vote
An ordinary vote is recorded by an elector whose entitlement to vote
is verified at the place of polling and whose name is marked off a
certified list of electors. Ordinary votes may be cast on, or in certain
circumstances, before election day. These votes are counted on
election day after the close of voting.
Page 33 Ballot paper formality guidelines
Australian Electoral Commission
Polling official
Ballot paper formality guidelines
There are two categories of polling officials engaged for federal
elections – those who are required to work in the period immediately
before election day to assist with mobile and early voting and those
who are required to work in a polling place on election day only.
The DRO determines the hours of duty of mobile and early voting.
Polling officials employed on election day are advised of the hours of
duty where an offer of employment is made.
Duty can commence as early as 7am and staff are required to
remain on duty after 6pm until all work at the polling place is
completed.
Polling place
A place appointed to take the votes of electors from that state or
territory on election day.
First preference mark
The mark – a tick, a cross or a number – made by an elector to
indicate a first preference when voting above the line in the Senate.
For all other ballot papers the first preference mark is a number ‘1’
only.
Preferential voting
(full)
A system of voting in which the voter completes the ballot paper by
putting the number ‘1’ in the box next to the candidate who is their
first choice, the number ‘2’ in the box next to their second choice,
and so on until every box is numbered consecutively. This is the
method used when voting for the House of Representatives or
below the line in the Senate.
Referendum
A proposal to alter the Constitution put to the vote. The Constitution
can only be altered by a ‘double majority’ – a national majority of
electors from all states and territories and a majority of electors in a
majority of states passing the proposed amendment.
Referendum
(Machinery
Provisions) Act 1984
The legislation governing the Referendum process.
Senate
One of two houses of the federal Parliament of Australia, which
has 76 Senators, 12 from each of the six states and two each from
Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory.
Scrutiny
The counting of votes, which leads to the election result.
Ticket vote
An above the line vote on a senate ballot paper.
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2011-1192