PENALTY: If you didn't find the time to vote in today's Federal Election you can expect the AEC to ask why and if you don't have a valid reason, expect to pay $20. Cathy Adams
News
Didn't vote? Here's the penalty you can expect
2nd Jul 2016 8:24 PM
IF you are a registered voter and didn't find the time to cast a vote you can expect a fine in the mail.
The Australian Electoral Commission will be sending out letters to thousands of non-voters requesting they either provide a valid and sufficient reason for failing to vote or pay a $20 penalty.
ELECTION DAY: Vvoters line-up at Hervey Bay High School to cast their votes in this years Federal Election. Alistair Brightman
If you fail to reply or cannot provide a valid reason then the matter could be referred to a court with the potential for further fines of up to $180 or a criminal conviction.
What the AEC considers a valid reason for not voting is at the discretion of a Divisional Returning Officer in each electorate.
