Voting overseas

Last Updated
Monday, 31/03/2025

 

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Federal elections

The next federal election will be held on 3 May 2025. 

If you're overseas on the day of the federal election, you can:

Voting is compulsory in Australia. But being overseas is a valid reason for not voting. If you can't vote because you're overseas, tell the AEC by completing an overseas notification form. If you don't tell them, they'll write to you asking you to explain why you didn't vote. 

Check your enrolment

To vote while overseas, you must be on the electoral roll. To check your enrolment, use the AEC website. The electoral roll will close at 8pm (AEST) on Monday 7 April 2025.

Also see the AEC's information on enrolling to vote overseas.

Voting by post

You can apply for a postal vote after the election is announced. 

If you're registered as a General Postal Voter, you don't need to re-apply for a postal vote for the election. You'll automatically receive a postal vote pack in the mail. The AEC will start sending postal vote packs after the candidates are known and the ballot papers produced. 

If you're living or working overseas, you may be able to register as an overseas elector. You must intend to return to Australia within 6 years and have an Australian address to register. You can choose to become a General Postal Voter at the time of registering or at a separate time.

Complete and return your postal vote certificate and ballot papers as soon as possible. The AEC can only legally count postal votes that are :

  • completed on or before election day
  • received by the AEC by Friday 16 May 2025.

Voting at an Australian embassy or consulate

You can vote at some Australian embassies or consulates overseas. 

Not all embassies or consulates can take votes. Opening times can vary. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate to find out:

  • if they are offering in-person voting
  • their opening dates and hours for voting
  • if you need to make an appointment to vote
  • their security or entry requirements, especially in high-risk locations

Check your enrolment before going to an overseas voting centre. You need to know which Australian address you're enrolled at to get the correct ballot papers.

State and territory elections

Some states and territories allow overseas voting. Others don't or may only allow specific voting methods.

Check the electoral commission website for your state or territory for more information.

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