AUSTRALIANS will head to the polls on Saturday, May 21, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirming on Sunday the federal election date.
The last time Australians voted in a federal election was 2019, with a key difference in this year’s election being COVID-19 and each state’s difference in dealing with the pandemic.
Following unpredictable swings in 2019 and the effects of the pandemic, election analysis indicates there will be differences in swings between states this year.
The seat of McEwen sees a redistribution of the electorate area, gaining Woodend from Bendigo and Plenty, Wattle Glen and Diamond Creek from Jagajaga and losing Sunbury.
Five candidates have nominated for the election, including current member, Labor’s Rob Mitchell.
Other candidates to put up their hand to stand include the Liberals’ Richard Welch; Neil Barker, Greens; John Herron, Liberal Democrats; and Paul McRae, United Australia Party.
The contest in the Nicholls electorate is already hotting up with candidates campaigning for weeks in hope of replacing retiring Nationals MP Damian Drum.
A new face will represent the Nicholls electorate for the first time since 2016.
Six candidates have been declared so far, including the Nationals’ Sam Birrell, Liberal Steve Brooks, and independent Rob Priestly.
Other candidates include Robert Peterson, United Australian Party; Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation; and Jeff Davy, Citizens Party.
Voter’s information
Australian citizens aged 18 years or older are required to vote in the federal election.
People have until 8pm Monday, April 18 to ensure they are enrolled correctly with the Australian Electoral Commission, AEC.
People who need to enrol to vote due to turning 18 or recently becoming an Australian citizen or who need to update their details with a changed name or address should visit the AEC website.
For people who know they will be unable to vote in person on May 21 can apply for a postal vote here.
Phone voting will also be available this year for anyone isolating due to COVID-19 protocols.
