07/2010
25 February 2010
Special Minister of State, Senator Joe Ludwig, today welcomed a report by the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters into automatic enrolment for federal elections.
“I would like to thank the Committee for their important work in this area,” Senator Ludwig said.
“The Rudd Government is committed to amending the Commonwealth Electoral Act to ensure Australians have access to a healthy and fair political system.”
“I will consider the Committee’s recommendations, taking into account how the report fits with the Rudd Government’s long-term electoral agenda.”
“It’s disappointing the Liberal Party’s knee-jerk response is to block any measure that might address the 1.39 million voters missing from the electoral roll.”
“It’s typical of an Opposition that is out of touch with Australian voters.”
Senator Ludwig said it’s also disappointing the Liberal Party won’t support the Government’s measure giving voters seven days to enrol before a federal election.
“Our bill to reinstate the close of rolls period and repeal requirements for provisional voters will facilitate and protect enrolment,” he said.
“At the 2007 election, about 27,000 votes weren’t counted due to proof of identity requirements for provisional voters.”
“However the Liberal Party is determined to disenfranchise Australians by placing unnecessary barriers in place of their democratic right to vote.”
“That’s to be expected from a party that has blocked our political donations bill for almost two years.”| Media Contact: | Website: |
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| Sarah Cosson - 0423 823 843 or (02) 6277 7600 | www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |