3 PERFORMANCE REPORTING

atonal letoral etemer annn 2 517 ducation Centre 2 ecemer ort ne 1 201516 In this section: Performance against agency directions 16 Performance against Regulator Performance Framework 23 Additional performance information 23

We report on our performance against the five agency directions specified in the 2015–19 AEC Corporate Plan. We also report against the Regulator Performance Framework, and provide additional information to complete the AEC’s performance story for 2015–16. Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Table 2: Mapping of PBS Performance Criteria Performance against for 2015–16 to Corporate Plan Agency Directions agency directions (Purposes) 2015–19

AEC CORPORATE PLAN AGENCY DIRECTIONS (PURPOSES) This section provides performance reporting on the AEC’s activities against the five agency Deliver a changed Govern the Re‑establish the Build an agile model for organisation for Professionalise the reputation of the and responsive directions specified in the 2015–19 AEC PBS PERFORMANCE CRITERIA electoral events quality and assurance workforce AEC organisation Corporate Plan. Federal Elections, By‑elections and Referendums The Corporate Plan agency directions ƒƒ Federal electoral events are successfully delivered. both draw from and contribute to the AEC ƒƒ Maintain ability to conduct a federal electoral event performance criteria set out for 2015–16 within the timeframe determined by the Electoral under ‘AEC Program 1.1 – Deliver electoral Commissioner. events’, available in Budget 2016–17 Portfolio Electoral Roll Management Budget Statements (PBS), Budget Related ƒƒ High level of confidence in the Electoral Roll. Paper No. 1.8 (Finance Portfolio), page 83 (available at www.finance.gov.au/publications/ Support Services for Electoral Redistributions portfolio‑budget‑statements/16‑17). ƒƒ Effective and timely conduct of redistribution activities. Party Registrations and Financial Disclosure A matrix chart mapping the PBS performance ƒƒ Party registration processed in accordance with the Performance directions agency against criteria to the Corporate Plan agency directions Electoral Act. is shown Table 2. ƒƒ Financial disclosures obtained and placed on the 3 public record in accordance with the Electoral Act. Industrial and Commercial Elections ƒƒ Industrial elections are delivered in accordance with the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 and each organisation’s rules. reporting ƒƒ Protected Action Ballots are delivered in accordance with the provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 and the orders issued by the Fair Work Commission. ƒƒ Regional Authority elections are delivered erformance in accordance with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait P Islander Act 2005. Public Awareness ƒƒ Electoral education is provided to Australian schools through the operation of the National Electoral Education Centre, conduct of teacher professional development workshops and provision of education resources. ƒƒ Information is timely and accurate, uses appropriate technology and channels, and meets accessibility standards. ƒƒ Provide targeted and culturally appropriate electoral services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through the delivery of the Indigenous Electoral Participation Program.

16 17 StatementAustralian Electoral by Commissionthe Electoral Commissioner Annual Report 2015–16 I, as the accountable authority of the Australian Electoral Commission, present the 2015–16 annual performance statements of the Australian Electoral Commission, as required under paragraph 39(1)(a) of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). In my opinion these annual performance statements are based on properly maintained records, AGENCY DIRECTION 2 accurately reflect the performance of the entity, and comply with subsection 39(2) of the PGPA Act. Tom Rogers Govern the organisation for quality and assurance Electoral Commissioner 4 October 2016 Performance criteria Source Result 2.1 Assurance framework is implemented AEC 2015–19 Met Our performance against the agency directions is as follows. Corporate Plan, p. 9 2.2 An enterprise performance and reporting AEC 2015–19 Met AGENCY DIRECTION 1 framework is implemented Corporate Plan, p. 9 2.3 High level of confidence in the accuracy of AEC 2015–19 Met Deliver a changed model for electoral events the electoral roll Corporate Plan, p. 9

Performance criteria Source Result Explanation 1.1 Federal electoral events are successfully AEC 2015–19 Partly met Criterion 2.1 was met with implementation of a documented assurance framework, together with a delivered Corporate Plan, p. 9 complementary operational compliance plan, that were endorsed by the Business Assurance Committee at 1.2 Maintain ability to conduct a federal electoral AEC 2015–19 Met its June 2016 meeting. event within the timeframe determined by the Corporate Plan, p. 9 Criterion 2.2 was met with the introduction of a performance and reporting framework underpinned by the Electoral Commissioner Accountable Authority Instructions and regular reporting to the AEC Executive.

Criterion 2.3 was met with an increase in roll completeness, with almost one million people added to the roll Performance directions agency against Explanation since the 2013 federal election. There has also been an improvement in the core component of roll integrity Criterion 1.1 was partly met. Assessment of the service plans of the two federal by‑elections, Canning, WA through more sophisticated quality controls that give greater confidence in the accuracy of the roll. 3 (September 2015) and North , (December 2015) identified minor aspects that were not achieved according to the plans. What we did alignment of the AEC’s Internal Audit Plan with the Criterion 1.2 was met with the development and refinement of an election readiness framework – risk profile. specifically the introduction of the 2016 Election Ready Road Map. At the issue of writs, inputs were ready Throughout the year the AEC’s focus has been on electoral integrity through the AEC values of quality, A range of measures were implemented via the Roll to conduct both the Canning and North Sydney by‑elections, and the 2016 federal election. reporting agility and professionalism. The AEC upholds the Program, based on the Electoral Integrity Framework, sanctity of the ballot paper in all its forms and at to improve roll completeness and accuracy, and What we did The POLITE inputs: provide a foundation for adapting all times, supported by the ballot paper handling reduce state and federal electoral roll divergence. to changing circumstances; guide the conduct of principles and the concept of ‘every task matters’. The measures included streamlining workflows and

In April 2015, the AEC introduced the Election Ready erformance

workloads nationally to assist in updating the roll P Road Map (ERRM), a key component of the election the right tasks at the right time; and coordinate work A new planning, performance and reporting within required timeframes. readiness framework. across different (but interconnected) areas of the framework was implemented throughout 2015–16. AEC. This framework was applied in the delivery of It supports staff involved in planning, delivering Areas for further improvement The ERRM sets out the sequence of actions over the two by‑elections. outcomes, and managing resources and finances. three phases that need to be completed between The implementation of the performance, planning This was integral to the structures, processes, the return of writs from the previous election and Recommendations from the Joint Standing and reporting framework, together with the controls and behaviours that support sections of the issue of the writs for the next election. It also Committee on Electoral Matters, the Keelty Report assurance framework, has led to improved Executive the PGPA Act. In addition, an assurance framework connects the lessons learned from the last electoral and the Australian National Audit Office were decision‑making throughout the agency and supports was implemented that outlines how the Executive event with the actions the AEC needs to take in considered in planning the delivery of the 2016 the established continual improvement platform. Leadership Team will gain assurance that the agency preparing for, and delivering, the next electoral event. federal election. The implementation of an electronic document and is operating efficiently and effectively, and meeting The ERRM influences all layers of the AEC. Areas for further improvement records management system will further enhance agency objectives. availability of the right information to support The elements (or ‘inputs’) that must be ready before A revised framework was introduced to assess The AEC has also focused on improving the risk‑based decision‑making. the AEC as a whole can be ‘election ready’ have lessons learned from conducting the Canning and foundations that support the organisation with been categorised on the ERRM under the following North Sydney by‑elections. This framework is a not only the introduction of the performance and headings (summarised by the AEC as ‘POLITE’): more efficient and effective way of evaluating federal reporting framework, but also enhancements to elections, and will be used to assess the 2016 federal Personnel, Organisation, Legislation, Information, the project management and risk management election. Training, Equipment, support and facilities. frameworks to ensure more accountability, and

18 19 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

AGENCY DIRECTION 3 AGENCY DIRECTION 4 Professionalise the workforce Re‑establish the reputation of the AEC

Performance criteria Source Result Performance criteria Source Result 3.1 An election workforce planning strategy is AEC 2015–19 Met 4.1 Productive relationship is maintained with the AEC 2015–19 Met implemented Corporate Plan, p. 9 Minister, Parliament, key agencies and other Corporate Plan, p. 9 3.2 The election workforce is ‘match fit’ before AEC 2015–19 Not met stakeholders the anticipated 2016 election Corporate Plan, p. 9 4.2 High quality services delivered with effective AEC 2015–19 Partly met 3.3 Management capability of key cohorts AEC 2015–19 Partly met management of issues in line with relevant Corporate Plan, p. 9 addressed in development plans and Corporate Plan, p. 9 legislation and agreements delivered with 90 per cent participating in 4.3 Information is timely and accurate, uses AEC 2015–19 Met courses where appropriate appropriate technology and channels, and Corporate Plan, p. 9 meets accessibility standards

Explanation Explanation Criterion 3.1 was met with the finalisation of the AEC Workforce Plan, in line with the AEC’s Directed Level of Election Readiness. The Workforce Plan informed the staffing model and training requirements for the Criterion 4.1 was met with the AEC continuing to meet the commitments made to key stakeholders, 2016 federal election. including the Minister and the Parliament. The Commissioner met regularly with key external stakeholders throughout the year. Criterion 3.2 was not met as the strategy was not operationalised and therefore could not be measured. Performance directions agency against Criterion 4.2 was partly met. While the AEC continues to provide high quality services in line with our values Criterion 3.3 was partly met. Due to the election preparations this program was put on hold. of quality, agility and professionalism, there were instances where the conduct of other electoral services, 3 particularly industrial and commercial elections, were not completed in line with complex legislation. What we did Areas for further improvement Criterion 4.3 was met with the delivery of engaging and informative education and communication products The AEC developed and began to implement a With preparations for the 2016 federal election, to the Australian public. core skills and capability training program designed the highest importance was placed on ensuring to ensure that AEC staff at all levels could do their the temporary election workforce were trained What we did AEC’s Your official guide to the 2016 federal election reporting jobs competently. Further to this, a Coaching and capable of undertaking their electoral roles. was delivered to over 10 million households. A new Program was piloted with selected staff, and project Consequently, implementation of the newly Throughout 2015–16 the AEC continued to publication, Voting in , was distributed to management and performance management courses developed AEC staff core skills and capability training maintain a productive working relationship with the over 90 000 students in over 9 500 schools, as well were delivered throughout the States and Territories. program was only partly achieved. Implementation Minister and the Minister’s Office through timely and

as being made available to schools and the public on erformance

This was part of a broader program aimed at will continue after the 2016 federal election. informative responses to questions, as well as by P keeping the Minister appropriately informed. the AEC’s website. becoming a learning organisation to support cultural Further work will continue on an appropriate model Areas for further improvement change, and attract, retain and develop a more to manage staff ‘match fitness’ contingencies and The AEC contributed to seven Parliamentary inquiries professional and agile workforce. redundancy gaps ahead of future electoral events. related to electoral matters, through submissions and In accord with our values of professionalism, quality New workforce plans covering election‑critical letters, and appearances. Other high quality services and agility, the AEC will continue to build on and ongoing and non‑ongoing job roles at divisional were provided to state Electoral Commissions, further improve external‑facing services, as well as and state levels were implemented; these plans political parties and the public through the supply of our international services, funding and disclosure were aimed at delivering a ‘match fit’ workforce in electoral roll products, party registration and financial services, and the provision of roll products. accordance with the election readiness framework. disclosure support. In 2015–16, outside of the federal election period, the AEC received and responded to over 43 000 phone calls, 30 000 emails and 10 000 in‑person contacts from the public. In the period 2 May to 30 June 2016, the election contact service centre (in partnership with the Department of Human Services) responded to over 560 000 telephone enquiries, 56 000 email enquiries and 35 000 requests for products. The

20 21 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

AGENCY DIRECTION 5 Performance against Additional performance Build an agile and responsive organisation Regulator Performance information

Performance criteria Source Result Framework This section presents additional information 5.1 Develop an established and efficient election AEC 2015–19 Met on achievements for the year to give a more evaluation model Corporate Plan, p. 9 The Australian Government has committed complete performance story for the AEC for 5.2 Create an environment to encourage AEC 2015–19 Partly met to reducing the cost of unnecessary or 2015–16. innovative practices to support the AEC and Corporate Plan, p. 9 inefficient regulation imposed on individuals, the conduct of electoral events business and community organisations, and Brief descriptions are organised according to has developed a framework to measure the the six AEC performance areas for 2015–16 listed in the 2016–17 Portfolio Budget Explanation performance of regulators. Statements, namely: Criterion 5.1 was met with the implementation of the AEC’s lessons‑learned framework approved by the As a regulatory body, the AEC aims to reduce Electoral Commissioner. the regulatory burden imposed on electors ƒƒ Federal elections, by‑elections and referendums Criterion 5.2 was partly met with the AEC developing innovative solutions to enhance the electoral process, through enrolment and voting activities, and which was supported by implementation of a new IT Strategic Plan. is committed to reporting annually against the ƒƒ Electoral roll management Framework’s six mandatory key performance ƒƒ Support services for electoral redistributions indicators. Our performance for 2015–16 is ƒƒ Party registrations and financial disclosure What we did The AEC is on a journey to create a new environment ƒƒ Industrial and commercial elections shown in Table 3, cross‑referenced to our Framework Performance Regulator against Performance In the lead‑up to the 2016 federal election, programs that supports innovation and agility. The Senate performance under the AEC’s five agency ƒƒ Public awareness. Reform Program is an example of how the AEC, in and systems were either developed or enhanced directions (see previous section). 3 to support the electoral reform program, as well a short time frame of 12 weeks, reprioritised and reallocated resources to produce a new system as election readiness and delivery. These were Table 3: AEC Performance against Regulator Performance Framework, 2015–16 underpinned by the IT Strategic Plan, which was of counting Senate ballot papers using scanning Mandatory key performance indicators Performance criteria Result developed to support key business initiatives and technology. program development. The new or enhanced Areas for further improvement Regulators do not unnecessarily High quality services delivered to clients Partly met. See impede the efficient operation of with effective management of issues in performance under Agency systems delivered more efficient administration of reporting The AEC, in line with the three phases of the electoral regulated entities line with the legislation and agreements Direction 4.2. the AEC that better met the expectations of internal cycle, will continue taking a more strategic approach Communication with regulated entities Information is timely and accurate, uses Met. See performance stakeholders. to developing and delivering better services both is clear, targeted and effective appropriate technology and channels, under Agency Direction 4.3. The introduction of the lessons-learned framework externally and internally. A scoping exercise will be and meets accessibility standards was to ensure that observations made at elections undertaken in the coming year to identify appropriate erformance Actions undertaken by regulators are Maintain ability to conduct a federal Met. See performance P are sufficiently captured and reviewed in order to opportunities for this. proportionate to the regulatory risk electoral event within the timeframe under Agency Direction 1.2. learn from actions that were implemented. ‘Lessons being managed determined by the Electoral learned’ is designed to foster innovation within Commissioner the agency, and enhance the way we operate. Compliance and monitoring An enterprise performance and Met. See performance This process will be conducted internally by an approaches are streamlined and reporting framework is implemented under Agency Direction 2.2. independent area within the AEC. This will provide coordinated sufficient information for timely decision‑making and Regulators are open and transparent Productive relationship is maintained Met. See performance responsiveness in the lead‑up to the next electoral in their dealings with regulated entities with the Minister, Parliament, key under Agency Direction 4.1. event. agencies and other stakeholders Regulators actively contribute to the An efficient election evaluation model is Met. See performance continuous improvement of regulatory implemented under Agency Direction 5.1. frameworks Create an environment to encourage Partly met. See innovative practices to support the AEC performance under Agency and the conduct of electoral events Direction 5.2.

22 23 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Federal elections, by‑elections As is usual with AEC electoral events, the As is usual with AEC electoral events, the Full details of the official House of Virtual Tally Room and media feed were used to Virtual Tally Room and media feed were used to Representatives by‑election results for the and referendums communicate the results on election night and communicate the results on election night and Division of North Sydney are available in the In 2015–16, the AEC prepared for and in the post‑election night period. in the post‑election night period. AEC Tally Room at results.aec.gov.au. delivered two federal by‑elections, and Full details of the official House of Table 4: Canning by‑election timeline prepared for the 2016 federal election, Representatives by‑election results for the including delivery of early voting services before Division of Canning are available in the AEC Event Day Date (2015) Time the 2 July 2016 election day. Tally Room at results.aec.gov.au. Issue of writ Monday 17 August 6 pm Close of rolls Monday 24 August 8 pm 2015 Canning by‑election (WA) 2015 North Sydney by‑election (NSW) Close of nominations Thursday 27 August 12 pm This by‑election was triggered by the death This by‑election was triggered by the resignation Declaration of nominations Friday 28 August 12 pm of the former Member for Canning, Mr of the former Member for North Sydney, the Election day Saturday 19 September 8 am – 6 pm MP, on 21 July 2015. The writ Hon. Joe Hockey MP on 23 October 2015. The Writ returned Wednesday 30 September for a by‑election was issued on Monday writ for a by‑election was issued on Monday 17 August 2015, and the by‑election was held 26 October 2015, and the by‑election was held Table 5: Canning by‑election – first preferences by vote type on Saturday 19 September 2015. Table 4 on Saturday 5 December 2015. Table 6 shows shows the key dates for this by‑election. the key dates for this by‑election. Vote type Number of votes Votes (%) Ordinary 78 881 87.92 Nominations Nominations Provisional 444 0.49 Additional performance information Additional The AEC received nominations from 12 The AEC received nominations from 13 Early Vote (pre‑poll declaration) 801 0.89 candidates. Nominations were formally declared candidates. Nominations were formally Postal 9 591 10.69 and the draw for positions on the ballot paper 3 declared and the draw for positions on the Total 89 717 79.52 a was conducted in accordance with the Electoral ballot paper was conducted in accordance Act at noon on Friday 28 August 2015. a. This represents the turnout, i.e. the proportion of voters on the electoral roll at the time who voted. Other percentages are with the Electoral Act at noon on Friday proportions of total votes by type (whether formal or informal). 13 November 2015. Provision of voting services Table 6: North Sydney by‑election timeline reporting The facilities for voting included: Provision of voting services Event Day Date (2015) Time ƒƒ 45 ordinary polling places on election day The facilities for voting included: Issue of writ Monday 26 October 6 pm ƒƒ early voting facilities operating at eight ƒƒ 36 ordinary polling places on election day Close of rolls Monday 2 November 8 pm erformance

Close of nominations Thursday 12 November 12 pm P pre‑poll voting centres and AEC divisional ƒƒ early voting facilities operating at four Declaration of nominations Friday 13 November 12 pm offices (including one for blind and low vision pre‑poll voting centres and AEC divisional voting, and four airport centres for fly‑in offices (including one for blind and low Election day Saturday 5 December 8 am – 6 pm fly‑out workers) for up to three weeks before vision voting) for up to three weeks before Writ returned Wednesday 23 December by‑election day election day Table 7: North Sydney by‑election – first preferences by vote type ƒƒ three mobile polling teams. ƒƒ three mobile polling teams. Vote type Number of votes Votes (%) Types of votes cast Types of votes cast Ordinary 72 427 88.56 The AEC provided voting services to 89 717 The AEC provided voting services to 81 779 Provisional 367 0.45 people in the by‑election. Table 5 shows the people in the by‑election. Table 7 shows the Early Vote (pre‑poll declaration) 211 0.26 number and percentage of each type of vote number and percentage of each type of vote Postal 8 774 10.73 counted. counted. Total 81 779 78.41 a

a. This represents the turnout, i.e. the proportion of voters on the electoral roll at the time who voted. Other percentages are proportions of total votes by type (whether formal or informal).

24 25 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Apparent non‑voting and multiple to continuous evaluation and improvement, we Election planning and mobilisation for the 2016 ƒƒ an ERRM readiness check involving Election voting at the by‑elections measured and reported on our performance federal election included the implementation Planning, Systems and Services (EPSS) The Electoral Act provides that it is an offence to based on the standards in each plan. and operationalisation of a range of new Branch staff, in collaboration with staff from fail to vote without a valid and sufficient reason, and updated policies, standard operating other business areas, and coinciding with and to vote more than once in an election. Electoral Reform Program procedures, and supporting guidance, the first Directed Level of Election Readiness Implementation of the Electoral Reform including (but not limited to): (DLER) set by the Electoral Commissioner for the AEC to be ‘writ ready minus 100 Non‑voting Program continued throughout 2015–16 in ƒƒ ballot paper handling (to address security, days’ on 31 March 2016. The AEC is proceeding with prosecuting preparation for the 2016 federal election, storage, packaging, labelling, transport and non‑voters in the Canning by‑election whose including the implementation of a significant tracking) The AEC also developed a set of election excuse was found to be not valid and sufficient, range of recommended reforms arising from ƒƒ election waste delivery principles to create common and who have not paid the $20 penalty. the Inquiry into the 2013 WA Senate Election ƒƒ out‑posted centres understanding across the organisation and (the Keelty Report) and reports of the Australian ƒƒ Divisional Returning Officer Senate count standardise the way polling staff approach their The AEC is proceeding with the process National Audit Office. ƒƒ Central Senate Scrutiny. work, including a consistent approach to the of identifying and investigating apparent agency’s risk management framework. non‑voters at the North Sydney by‑election. The Program focused on: After the 2016 federal election all policies and Initial letters to electors who appeared to ƒƒ enhancing ballot paper handling practices procedures will be reviewed for efficacy, with The principles are numbered to reflect priority, have failed to vote were sent in the week ƒƒ ensuring greater electoral integrity implementation of reforms continuing through to and are underpinned by the core AEC values commencing 15 February 2016 (inside the ƒƒ achieving national consistency in AEC the next federal election, anticipated for 2019. of electoral integrity through quality, agility and three‑month timeframe specified in the policies and procedures professionalism. In addition, they are supported

Electoral Act). Prosecutions are planned for late ƒƒ developing new materials and forms Election readiness by our organisational commitment to the ballot performance information Additional 2016, following the 2016 federal election. ƒƒ implementing more robust compliance and Election Readiness Framework paper principles and the ‘every task matters’ assurance mechanisms Following the introduction of the Election principle. 3 Voting more than once ƒ ƒ introducing greater rigour in transport and Readiness Framework in 2015, throughout The election delivery principles are: The follow‑up of apparent multiple voting is an logistics contracts. 2015–16 the AEC adopted and implemented important electoral integrity measure. 1. Integrity of the result The Canning and North Sydney by‑elections the various initiatives developed under this Following the conduct of the 2015 Canning provided two opportunities to test these framework to better synchronise planning a. safety, custody and handling of ballot by‑election, the AEC investigated 39 cases measures, particularly in the areas of ballot efforts across all levels of the agency. papers reporting b. maintaining the integrity of a person’s of multiple marks (all dual marks) occurring. paper handling and security, visual identification Innovations included: Twenty‑three cases were subsequently referred of AEC staff, visitors and scrutineers in polling right to vote (prevention of voter to the Australian Federal Police (AFP). places, use of out‑posted centres (for election ƒƒ creating an Election Ready Road Map disenfranchisement) erformance

activities), and the management of election (ERRM) for the organisation to set a clear c. ballot paper formality. P The AEC reviewed and investigated 39 cases path to being ready for the 2016 federal waste. 2. Efficient processes and procedures. of multiple marks (all dual marks) occurring election at the North Sydney by‑election. Further The changes to the Commonwealth Electoral 3. Good customer service and positive ƒƒ the federal election event picture, which investigations involving the AFP are planned to Act 1918 passed by the Parliament on Friday customer experience. occur in late 2016. 18 March 2016 were another significant provided a vision of the key policies, milestone in terms of the AEC’s Electoral practices, training and systems to be in Service plans for the Canning and Reform Program. As outlined elsewhere in place for the 2016 federal election North Sydney by‑elections this report, these changes principally related ƒƒ adopting an Election Readiness Assessment The introduction of service plans for the to voting in the Senate, counting of Senate Framework (ERAF) and the concept of two by‑elections was a new AEC initiative in ballot papers, and handling of declaration condition statements 2015–16. The plans outlined the key election votes. This resulted in a number of significant services and standards underpinning delivery of organisational and operational changes, and ƒƒ conducting a series of readiness the by‑elections. This commitment to services changes in the management of, preparations assessments to measure the agency’s actual embodied the AEC values of upholding for, and delivery of, the 2016 federal election. state of election readiness along the way electoral integrity through quality, agility and professionalism. In line with our commitment

26 27 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Advertisement Governance arrangements 2016 federal election the NEDC met daily to ƒƒ precluding a person from being a registered DID YOU KNOW To support election readiness, a National monitor and manage election delivery. officer for more than one political party at a Election Manager (NEM) was appointed. time VOTING RULES Senate Reform Program This role is performed by the First Assistant ƒƒ requiring declaration‑vote ballot boxes HAVE CHANGED? Commissioner, Election Operations and Reform. On 18 March 2016, the biggest electoral reform to remain sealed at the polling place for The NEM is responsible for managing electoral in 30 years was passed by the Parliament transport to the divisional out‑posted centre. events on behalf of the Electoral Commissioner. following a marathon 40‑hour debate – the This role includes responsibility for both election longest continuous Senate consideration of a To implement the changes for the 2016 double preparation and election delivery. single bill in 26 years. dissolution federal election, the AEC developed: The National Election Delivery Committee The changes to the Commonwealth Electoral ƒƒ a national, integrated, multi‑media public (NEDC), comprising the NEM, state and Act 1918 were: education campaign for voters on how to mark their Senate ballot papers Make your vote count this federal election Saturday 2 July territory managers, and key Assistant At this year’s federal election, the way you vote for the Senate has If you choose to vote below the line, you need to number at least ƒƒ abolishing group voting tickets changed and it’s important that you understand how to vote correctly. 12 boxes, from 1 to 12, for individual candidates in the order of Counting Senate votesyour choice. On the large white Senate ballot paper, you can choose to vote either Commissioners, operated throughout 2015–16 above or below the line. Voting for the House of Representatives has not changed. On the ƒƒ a solution for counting Senate votes green ballot paper, you need to number every box, starting with the If you choose to vote above the line, you now need to number at least number ‘1’ for your first choice, ‘2’ for your second choice and so on ƒƒ requiring voters to nominate a minimum of The 6 boxes.changes Put the number ‘1’ in the boxto for the partySenate or group that is votinguntil you have numbered substantially every box. to provide national oversight of the AEC’s your first choice, a ‘2’ for your second choice and so on until you’ve numbered at least 6 boxes. ‘How to vote’ instructions will be clearly displayed on your ballot paper. ƒƒ a register for authorised party logos Don’t worry if you make a mistake — just ask for another ballot paper. election planning, preparation, and coordination six preferences above or 12 preferences increasedYour vote will helpthe shape complexity Australia. of the Senate count. of activities in line with the ERRM. During below the line on the Senate ballot paper ƒƒ new procedures for handling At theTo learn 2013 more www.aec.gov.aufederal 13election, 23 26 most people voted by marking a ‘1’ above the line, next to the the election delivery phase the committee ƒƒ allowing registered party logos to appear on declaration votes Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 50 Marcus Clarke Street, ACT. group of their choice. TheInks group Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, voting Black ticket membership was augmented to include all ballot papers ƒƒ revised election policies, procedures, training determined the flow of preferences. First Assistant Commissioners and Assistant performance information Additional ƒƒ amending provisions to save informal votes modules, publications, forms and materials. Commissioners. From the Issue of Writ for the Previously, only preferences expressed below the line, about 4 per cent of votes, needed to 3 be recorded and entered individually into the SPOTLIGHT count system. The changes to Senate voting required Operations Manager Lisa Warwar said, ‘The way to unify the AEC staff – it gave us a real voters to express group preferences Implementing first tangible sign that things would be different sense of “team”.’ (at least 1 to 6) above the line, or individual reporting this time was when the ballot papers arrived in preferences (at least 1 to 12) below the line. ‘Trialling the Standard Operating Procedures election reforms in new security packaging and labelling.’ Consequently, preferences had to be entered gave the Election Reform Program Branch into the count system for 100 per cent of

‘Then came new bollards and tape for the chance to see all their planning work erformance

the North Sydney P delineating secure zones at polling places, in action, at the coalface. The importance Senate ballot papers – whether the ballot paper by‑election followed by new coloured vests and badges of every single physical and administrative was marked above or below the line. for identifying AEC staff and their various roles. process was top of mind for all of us. It With Lisa Warwar, Operations Manager, In addition there was an increased security was a true “every task matters” principle in New semi‑automated solution AEC, New South Wales. presence, and Early Voting Polling Place Liaison action. We were so aware of where all the To ensure a workable count solution for a 2 July Officers at the pre‑poll voting centres. Then things we did fitted in.’ election, the AEC developed two potential A by‑election for the federal House of having to guard the ballot papers at all times, ‘In the end it was very rewarding educating solutions in parallel: (1) a semi‑automated vote Representatives seat of North Sydney (NSW) including overnight, and having a documented and passing on knowledge to our team scanning and new counting system; and (2) an was held on 5 December 2015. The trigger chain of custody for all ballot papers, including members, and what was a lot to cope with enhanced EasyCount solution, using the AEC’s for the by‑election was the resignation of the the need for two people to move ballot papers, became a big success – and hopefully a sitting member, the Hon. Joe Hockey MP. and so on.’ existing count application. sign of good things to come with the 2016 The North Sydney by‑election was the first ‘I really think the vests had a unifying effect on election.’ Developed in partnership with Fuji Xerox opportunity for staff in New South Wales all of our staff at polling places’, Lisa said. ‘I Document Management Solutions, the to implement new policies and trial new know it seems a very simple innovation, but semi‑automated process was considered more Standard Operating Procedures developed with upwards of 80 people present at some robust, efficient and technically superior, and to support the conduct of elections. polling places at times, the vests were a nice was adopted for the 2016 federal election.

28 29 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Central Senate Scrutiny Nominations Early voting offices during the early voting period (which Each state and territory established a dedicated Nominations were received from 994 House of Early voting services became available for ended at 6 pm Friday 1 July). Central Senate Scrutiny (CSS) site in their capital Representatives candidates and 631 Senate eligible voters (to vote in person) from Tuesday city. At the CSS, batches of Senate ballot papers candidates. All nominations were officially 14 June 2016. There were 649 early voting Mobile polling were scanned using Kodak i5650 scanning declared, and draws for positions on the centres operating across Australia in the weeks Mobile polling commenced from Monday hardware and entered into imaging software. ballot papers were conducted at noon on leading up to election day. 20 June 2016, with 557 mobile polling teams Friday 10 June 2016, in line with legislative established for the election (including special Optical character recognition technology More than three million pre‑poll votes were requirements. Table 9 and Table 10 show the hospital, remote and other mobile teams). captured voter preferences, with manual cast at early voting centres and AEC divisional breakdown of nominations by state and territory. verification by a human operator. Candidate scrutineers were free to observe the verification Table 8: 2016 federal election timeline Distribution of ballot papers process and raise challenges for adjudication Event Day Date (2016) Time by the Australian Electoral Officer. Images of Changes to the Electoral Act allowed – for the Announcement of the election Sunday 8 May – potentially informal ballot papers, and those first time in the history of federal elections – Postal vote applications opened Sunday 8 May with unusual markings, were visually checked the inclusion of logos approved by the AEC – by a human operator and assessed as formal on ballot papers. Political parties were able Issue of writs Monday 16 May – or informal by AEC staff. to have their party logo appear adjacent to Close of rolls Monday 23 May 8.00 pm their candidate’s names on the House of Close of candidate nominations Tuesday 7 June 12.00 pm Once verified, a record, representing the Representatives ballot paper, and have no Declaration of nominations Friday 8 June 12.00 pm preferences on the ballot paper, was generated more than two logos appear adjacent to their Early voting commenced Tuesday 14 June performance information Additional and a cryptographic digital signature applied party or group name above the line on the – to protect each preference record from Senate ballot paper. Mobile polling commenced Monday 20 June – modification. The AEC then imported the Close of postal vote applications Wednesday 29 June 6.00 pm 3 For the 2016 election, 33 parties registered a preference record into the AEC EasyCount Election day Saturday 2 July 8.00 am – 6.00 pm system for the distribution of preferences. logo, 941 different variations of ballot papers were designed and typeset, and over 45 million Writs returned Wednesday By 8 August – System integrity ballot papers were printed and distributed securely for use across Australia and the world. To ensure the integrity of the count, the Table 9: House of Representatives Table 10: Senate nominations by state and reporting nominations by state and territory territory CSS process was reviewed by IBM, and the Immediately after the declaration of Senate count system was certified by the nominations, the AEC began to print and 2016 No. of 2016 a National Association of Testing Authorities. distribute ballot papers in time for early voting State/territory Seats nominations State/territory vacancies nominations

New South Wales a 47 314 New South Wales 12 151 erformance It was independently reviewed for security to commence on Tuesday 14 June 2016. P vulnerabilities by a specialist agency and Victoria 37 259 Victoria 12 116 accredited under the Australian Information Provision of early voting services Queensland 30 204 Queensland 12 122 Security Registered Assessors Program. There was significant uptake of early voting b 16 86 Western Australia 12 79 services for the 2016 federal election. South Australia 11 72 South Australia 12 64 2016 federal election Tasmania 5 30 Tasmania 12 58 Postal voting On Sunday 8 May 2016, the Prime Minister Australian Capital 2 9 Australian Capital 2 22 Following the announcement of the election on announced a double dissolution federal election Territory Territory Sunday 8 May 2016, postal vote applications for Saturday 2 July 2016. The writs for this Northern Territory 2 20 Northern Territory 2 19 opened (for eligible voters unable to vote on election were issued on Monday 16 May 2016. Australia 150 994 Australia 76 631 election day). As required under the Electoral Table 8 shows the key dates for this election. Act, the deadline for receipt by the AEC of a. New South Wales was entitled to 48 seats at the 2013 a. The 2016 federal election was a double dissolution postal vote applications was three days before federal election. This was reduced to 47 seats for the election, so all 76 Senate seats were vacant. For the 2016 election. 2013 federal election there were 40 Senate vacancies polling day – by 6 pm on Wednesday 29 June. b. Western Australia was entitled to 15 seats at the 2013 (half Senate for the six states, elected for six‑year More than 1.5 million postal vote applications federal election. This was increased to 16 seats for the terms, plus two ACT Senators and two NT Senators, the were processed. 2016 election. Territory Senators always being elected for terms that coincide with House of Representatives terms).

30 31 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Of these teams, 41 remote mobile voting teams cast their vote in secret and with a degree of Polling places on election day Australians. More detailed data on enrolment, visited more than 400 remote locations across independence. In addition to the early voting services including monthly and quarterly enrolment Australia by land, air and sea. statistics, are available from the AEC website at Registrations opened on Monday 13 June 2016 described above, the AEC provided services at www.aec.gov.au/Enrolling_to_vote/Enrolment_ and closed at 12 pm on 2 July 2016. During over 7 000 static polling places across Australia Blind and low vision voting stats/index.htm. this period 2 175 people registered. on election day. Overseas voting was available A telephone voting service was provided for to eligible voters at over 95 locations outside Targeted enrolment programs voters who are blind or experience low vision, Voting via this service commenced on Tuesday Australia. via a two‑step process of registration and 14 June 2016, and was available until 6 pm on Youth enrolment election day. During this period 1 998 people voting. This service allows eligible voters to Youth enrolment remains a challenge for the used the service to cast their vote. Electoral roll management AEC as Australians aged 18 to 24 years have The state of the electoral roll lower levels of enrolment than that of the The Commonwealth electoral roll is the list general population. Despite this trend the AEC of voters eligible to vote at federal elections. has achieved increased enrolment rates for this SPOTLIGHT The completeness of the electoral roll is demographic, year on year, since 2012. measured by the enrolment rate, which is the In 2015–16 the youth enrolment rate increased The solution involved scanning and percentage of eligible Australian electors who from 79.3 per cent of eligible electors aged New Senate count image recognition technology to capture are enrolled. 18 to 24 at 30 June 2015 to 87.4 per cent preferences which were then visually The AEC maintains multiple streams of solution in 12 weeks validated by a human operator before being at 30 June 2016, above the target rate of

imported to the AEC EasyCount system contact with eligible electors to encourage 80 per cent. performance information Additional In February 2016, the Commonwealth for the distribution of preferences and them to enrol and keep their enrolment up to Electoral Amendment Bill 2016 was declaration of results. date, including the Online Enrolment Service New citizen enrolment 3 introduced into Parliament. It proposed (OES), the Federal Direct Enrolment and Another important target group for AEC changes to the Senate voting system, Notable features of the solution included: Update (FDEU) process, and the New Citizens enrolment activity is new Australian citizens. removing group voting tickets, and ƒƒ a continual, trackable chain of custody for Enrolment Program. In 2015–16, AEC officers attended 1 128 introducing optional preferential voting and ballot papers party logos on ballot papers. In 2015–16, the enrolment rate increased by citizenship ceremonies and collected 100 978 ƒƒ human verification of every ballot paper 1.9 percentage points – from 93.2 per cent enrolment applications from new citizens reporting The AEC established the Senate Reform ƒƒ full access for candidate scrutineers enrolling for the first time. Program to scope potential requirements, at 30 June 2015 to 95.1 per cent at ƒƒ IT architecture and security standards to with the possibility of an early election in 30 June 2016. This represented an increase Around 92.5 per cent of new citizens enrolled industry best practice. mind. If passed, the AEC would likely need of 501 857 Australians to 15 696 874 enrolled within three months of attendance at a

out of an estimated eligible population of erformance to operationalise these changes into new The counting solution required the citizenship ceremony, compared with just under P policies, procedures and systems extremely movement of approximately 14 million ballot 16 504 325. Over the same period there was a 94 per cent the previous year. quickly. papers from over 7 000 polling places to a corresponding decline in the number of eligible Central Senate Scrutiny (CSS) site in each On 18 March 2016 the legislation was Australians who were not enrolled – from Electoral roll integrity state or territory. At these sites, over 800 passed, and the Senate Reform Program 1.1 million to 807 000. staff scanned and verified preferences for Enrolment quality assurance set to prepare and implement a solution to 631 candidates. These positive outcomes have been driven The Enrolment Quality Assurance Program assist in the count of Senate ballot papers by increasing take‑up of the OES and the (EQAP) is designed to improve the accuracy and registration of party logos which would From Tuesday 5 July, eight CSS sites FDEU process. Combined, online and direct appear on ballot papers. On 9 May 2016, operated five days a week, over two of the electoral roll by measuring the ongoing enrolment now represent almost 80 per cent of the Parliament was dissolved and a shifts. The AEC, with the assistance of the integrity of the AEC’s enrolment transactions. all enrolment activity, with only 20 per cent of double dissolution election announced for counting solution, successfully declared the EQAP involves scrutinising a sample of 2 July 2016. eight state and territory senate results and electors submitting a claim for enrolment using enrolment transactions from every electoral returned the writs by 8 August 2016. a paper form. In 12 weeks a new end‑to‑end solution was division on a monthly basis to measure their developed, tested and made operational. This was an incredible achievement The enrolment rate and growth of the electoral accuracy, completeness and timeliness. Integrity, accuracy and timeliness guided given the short time provided in which to roll since 2007 are shown in Figure 3. The the work of the Senate Reform Program. implement the changes. target is enrolment of 95 per cent of eligible EQAP results up to December 2015 indicate that 97.8 per cent of essential data fields

32 33 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

(relating directly to voter entitlements) were A random sample of approximately 30 000 processed without error, and 96.9 per cent of addresses across Australia were selected non‑essential fields were processed without for doorknocking in May 2015. This sample SPOTLIGHT error. In 2015–16, 92.7 per cent of claims for spanned 74 electoral divisions and included enrolment were processed within five business approximately 48 000 voters. days and 97.0 per cent of claims were Electronic premises Results for the 2015 SAF are presented in processed within 30 days. Table 11, and are consistent with results from inspection tool previous SAF activities. Sample Audit Fieldwork boosts polling Sample Audit Fieldwork (SAF) is a component Table 11: 2015 SAF average national results of the AEC’s roll integrity program that audits against performance measures place accessibility the enrolments of eligible electors at a random 2015 sample of addresses. SAF 2015 included Indicator Target SAF result information for voters performance targets of 95 per cent for the Enrolment rate 95% 98.7% enrolment rate (proportion of electors enrolled), with disability Enrolment completeness 95% 93.8% 95 per cent for enrolment completeness Enrolment accuracy 90% 89.2% Prior to a federal election the AEC inspects (proportion of electors enrolled for the correct thousands of premises across Australia, with division) and 90 per cent for enrolment around 7 000 subsequently being used as accuracy (proportion of electors enrolled for the polling places. correct address). performance information Additional For people with disability, information on the accessibility of various polling places The enhanced information became 3 – for example wheelchair accessible, or available on the AEC website from Sunday Figure 3: Enrolment rate and enrolled population 24 November 2007 to 30 June 2016 wheelchair accessible with assistance – can 12 June 2016, to coincide with the opening be crucial. of early voting services for the 2 July 2016 liile Australians enrolled federal election. Ahead of the 2016 federal election we 51 introduced ‘EPIT’ – the electronic premises While premises are primarily inspected for

Taret enrolment rate reporting inspection tool – to improve the collection, wheelchair accessibility, the information can 32 storage and publication of information on also be highly relevant to people with other 23 24 23 22 1 premises used as polling places, and, for forms of disability. 14 0 06 the first time, provided detailed accessibility Compared to the previous entirely erformance

0 information for voters. P 7 paper‑based process, EPIT has resulted EPIT captures data from up to in benefits beyond enhanced premises illion people enrolled 150 accessibility questions aligned with information for voters. It also fulfils Australian accessibility standards. The recommendations made by the Australian data are then assessed to determine the National Audit Office (ANAO) for centralised accessible and non‑accessible features of assessment and retention of data on polling the premises, and to assign an accessibility premises which can then be used for future rating. This then flows through to the AEC elections. 157

152 website, where voters can find accessibility 14 147

145 information for polling places across 142

141 141 13 13 13 Australia. 136 2013 2010 2007

24 Nov 30 Jun 30 Jun 30 Jun 21 Aug 30 Jun 30 Jun 30 Jun 7 Sep 30 Jun 30 Jun 30 Jun 2007 2008 2009 2010 2010 2011 2012 2013 2013 2014 2015 2016

34 35 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Enrolment processing integrity checks Electoral roll products and services arrangements. In 2015–16 the AEC provided item 2 of subsection 90B(4) of the Electoral During the close of rolls process for major The AEC provides a wide range of roll products states and territories with 909 roll information Act. This information is commonly used to electoral events, including the 2016 federal and services to state and territory electoral products, known as extracts, supporting 51 identify participants for research projects and election, the AEC conducts a series of checks authorities, other government departments state, territory and local government elections. mail surveys. Before they can access roll to ensure the integrity of claims for enrolment. and agencies, federal parliamentarians, political data, researchers must undergo an approval parties and researchers. These services are Other electoral roll products and services process. This includes scrutiny by a human These integrity checks on claims for enrolment provided in accordance with the Electoral Under section 90B of the Electoral Act the AEC research ethics committee and agreement on include: Act, under agreement and for an authorised is permitted to provide certain roll information how the data will be used and protected. ƒƒ verifying ‘evidence of identity’ documents purpose. to various legislated recipients for authorised In 2015–16 seven medical researchers and in instances where a document is used for purposes. In 2015–16, roll products provided by the one electoral researcher received electoral roll more than one claim for enrolment AEC included support for the two federal information. A full breakdown of roll information ƒƒ confirming the number of voters enrolled at Members and Senators by‑elections and 1 782 extracts of roll provided to researchers is provided in Table 37 a residential address Subsection 90B(1) of the Electoral Act allows information. in Appendix D. ƒƒ scrutinising unusual patterns of enrolment. Members of Parliament, Senators and House of Representatives candidates to receive electoral The AEC takes any allegation or suspicion of State and territory electoral roll roll information. The AEC provided 611 roll enrolment fraud very seriously (see ‘Federal products and services extracts in 2015–16. A full breakdown of roll elections, by‑elections and referendums’ earlier The AEC manages and maintains the information provided to Members and Senators in this chapter). electoral roll on behalf of states and territories is available in Appendix B.

under agreements referred to as joint roll performance information Additional Political parties SPOTLIGHT Federally registered political parties are 3 entitled to receive electoral roll information SPOTLIGHT in accordance with subsection 90B(1) of the Partnership with Electoral Act. In 2015–16, the AEC provided 204 roll extracts to registered political parties. applications, the AEC still received around DHS to deliver Scanning postal vote A full breakdown of roll information provided 715 000 paper postal vote applications – reporting hence the introduction of scanning of PVAs. to registered political parties is available in election services applications Appendix C. For the 2016 federal election, eligible voters As occurred for the 2013 federal For the 2016 federal election the AEC were able to apply for PVAs from the election Government departments and agencies election, the AEC again partnered with

announcement on Sunday 8 May until 6pm the Department of Human Services erformance introduced scanning of paper postal vote Government departments and agencies are P applications (PVAs) to capture essential data Wednesday 29 June 2016 (7.5 weeks). entitled to receive electoral roll information if (DHS) to deliver election services at the 2016 federal election. Election services to feed into the AEC’s Automated Postal During this period we received over they are a ‘prescribed authority’, under item 4 delivered included: Vote Issuing System (APVIS) for streamlined 1.5 million PVAs via the following methods: of subsection 90B(4) of the Electoral Act. processing and despatching of relevant ƒƒ contact centres postal vote packs and ballot papers. ƒƒ around 530 000 lodged online The AEC provided 39 roll extracts to ƒƒ election service centres ƒƒ over 700 000 submitted by paper form 13 government departments and agencies This represents a significant improvement ƒƒ blind and low vision registration ƒƒ over 260 000 pre‑approved postal in 2015–16. Each department and agency to the way the AEC manages paper‑based and voting postal vote applications. Previously, manual voters not required to submit a PVA each provided justification for access by reference ƒƒ enrolment and polling services in processing of paper applications was election. to its statutory functions and the Privacy Act 1988. A full breakdown of roll information remote areas. required, which took up valuable time during The AEC will review all processes associated a critical period in the lead‑up to election day. with postal voting as part of our evaluation provided to government departments and The AEC strategic partnership with DHS agencies is available in Table 36 in Appendix D. exemplifies a whole‑of‑government The new process builds on the introduction of the 2016 federal election. This will approach to service delivery, delivering an of online lodgement and processing of include PVA scanning, to find where further Researchers efficient business solution for providing PVAs at the 2013 federal election. Despite improvements and efficiencies can be made. Medical and electoral researchers are permitted election services to the Australian public. the introduction of online postal vote access to electoral roll information under

36 37 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Redistributions concluded in 2015–16 SPOTLIGHT As a result of three redistributions that concluded in 2015–16, changes were made to the names and boundaries of some electoral divisions in New South Wales, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory. Table 12 sets out the milestones in each of these three redistribution processes. Island electors making a claim (e.g. for All Norfolk Islanders new enrolment, or change of address) More information on these redistributions and associated name changes is available in the were enrolled in or transferred to the ‘Redistributions in 2015–16’ Spotlight on page 44. to vote in future Division of Canberra. federal elections ƒƒ From 1 July 2016, Norfolk Island Table 12: Summary of electoral redistributions concluded in 2015–16 electors enrolled in Divisions other than New South Wales Western Australia Australian Capital Territory Canberra were to be transferred into In March 2016, the Australian Government Basis for Electoral Decreased entitlement to Increased entitlement to More than seven years Canberra – however the transfer could made changes to arrangements for Commission’s House of Representatives House of Representatives had elapsed since the not occur between the close of rolls and enrolment and voting for Norfolk Islanders. determination triggering electoral divisions (from electoral divisions (from last redistribution was close of poll for an election – so as the a redistribution 48 to 47) 15 to 16) determined. The ACT The effect of the changes was that from 2016 federal election was on 2 July, the retained its entitlement after the 2016 federal election, it will be transfer occurred after this time. to two members of the compulsory for Norfolk Islanders to enrol to ƒƒ In the months leading up to the House of Representatives vote in federal elections, in the Division of changeover, the AEC worked with Direction to commence 1 December 2014 1 December 2014 1 December 2014 Canberra. local authorities and the Department of redistribution Prior to the 2013 federal election, enrolment Infrastructure and Regional Development Release of Redistribution 16 October 2015 21 August 2015 11 September 2015 Additional performance information Additional was optional for Norfolk Islanders, and they to overcome communication challenges Committee’s proposed redistribution could be enrolled in almost any electorate to inform electors about the changes. in Australia, depending on their individual The AEC also distributed flyers on the Public input relating 791 written objections 28 written objections 29 written objections 3 circumstances. If enrolled, voting was island outlining the changes and effects. to the proposed were received between were received between were received between compulsory. Specific information was also available on redistribution 16 October and 21 August and 11 September and the AEC’s website. 13 November 2015 18 September 2015 9 October 2015 In brief: ƒƒ At the beginning of the changes, 26 written comments on 10 written comments on Five written comments on ƒƒ The legislative changes commenced on 231 Norfolk Islanders were enrolled. By objections were received objections were received objections were received between 16 November between 21 September between 12 October and reporting 1 July 2016. 30 June 2016, 653 Norfolk Islanders and 27 November 2015 and 2 October 2015 23 October 2015 ƒƒ From 6 May 2016 (8 weeks before were enrolled. Augmented Electoral Inquiries held: 30 Inquiries held: Six Inquiries held: Seven commencement of the changes), Norfolk Commission activities submissions were submissions were made submissions were made

made at the inquiry at the inquiry held in at the inquiry held in erformance held in Sydney and 18 Canberra P Decision: Adopt the submissions were made Private sector organisations proposed redistribution, Decision: Adopt the Support services for electoral at the inquiry held in Port Under items 5, 6 and 7 of subsection 90B(4) of with changes proposed redistribution redistributions Macquarie the Electoral Act, private sector organisations Announcement Announcement Decision: Adopt the may receive roll information for identity of decision: of decision: Electoral divisions are periodically ‘redistributed’ proposed redistribution, 5 November 2015 24 November 2015 verification processes related to theFinancial (that is, redrawn) in accordance with Part IV of with changes Transactions Reports Act 1988 and the the Electoral Act. The purpose of an electoral Announcement Anti‑Money Laundering and Counter‑Terrorism redistribution is to ensure that, as nearly as of decision: Financing Act 2006. The AEC provided 12 roll practicable, there are an equal number of 14 January 2016 extracts to private sector organisations. A voters in each electoral division for a given state Gazettal of 25 February 2016 19 January 2016 28 January 2016 full breakdown of roll information provided to or territory. determination of names private sector organisations is available in Table and boundaries of 38 in Appendix D. electoral divisions

38 39 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Redistributions begun in 2015–16 The Redistribution Committee for the Deferral of redistribution within 30 days of the first sitting day of the new The redistribution of federal electoral divisions Northern Territory received six suggestions A redistribution of Tasmania was due to start House of Representatives following the 2016 in the Northern Territory commenced on to the redistribution and one comment on within 30 days of 16 February 2016, as seven federal election. 15 October 2015 because seven years had suggestions. It will release a report detailing its years had elapsed since the last redistribution Assistance provided by the AEC elapsed since the previous redistribution was proposed redistribution of the Northern Territory of Tasmania was determined. However, the determined. The Northern Territory retained its in 2016–17. Electoral Act prevents redistributions from The AEC provides administrative assistance entitlement to two members of the House of commencing in the 12 months before the to the two bodies established to conduct Representatives. expiry of the House of Representatives. The each redistribution: redistribution of Tasmania will commence ƒƒ The Redistribution Committee, which is responsible for making a proposed redistribution, is comprised of the SPOTLIGHT Electoral Commissioner, the relevant Australian Electoral Officer, and the Surveyor‑General (or equivalent officer) and ƒƒ providing daily statistics on ordinary voting the next federal election. The JSCEM also the Auditor‑General of the relevant state or Electronic at pre‑poll centres and the issuing of recommended that ECLs be progressively territory. declaration votes, facilitating electoral roll implemented with a view to eventual Certified Lists integrity and reducing errors replacement of paper lists at all polling ƒƒ The augmented Electoral Commission, places. which considers any objections to a ƒƒ reducing the risk of multiple voting. Electronic Certified Lists (ECLs) allow AEC proposed redistribution, and makes a final performance information Additional An AEC evaluation of ECL usage at the staff and polling officials to, among other At the 2013 federal election, the AEC piloted 2013 federal election pilot (and in line with determination of the names and boundaries things, look up, in real‑time, a person’s the use of ECLs in selected locations to the 2014 JSCEM recommendations) found of the redistributed electoral divisions. It 3 electoral enrolment on an electronic introduce efficiencies into the process to find that allocating ECLs by polling type rather is comprised of the Chairperson of the database and electronically mark off their and mark voters off the electoral roll. name. than specific areas or divisions offered the Electoral Commission, the non‑judicial The Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee most benefit in particular, allocating ECLs to member of the Electoral Commission Other benefits of ECLs include: on Electoral Matters (JSCEM) considered the pre‑poll voting centres and mobile teams. and the members of the Redistribution use of ECLs in its inquiry into the conduct of ƒƒ looking up electors on a national roll to At both the Canning by‑election Committee. reporting the 2013 election (Second interim report on determine their correct division (September 2015) and North Sydney the inquiry into the conduct of the 2013 federal The AEC assisted the Redistribution ƒƒ the ability to print House of by‑election (December 2015) all polling election: An assessment of electronic voting Committees for New South Wales, Western Representatives ballot papers on demand places, early voting centres, and mobile options, Commonwealth of Australia, 2014). Australia, the Australian Capital Territory and

rather than needing to have ballot papers polling teams used ECLs to issue ordinary erformance The Committee recommended that the AEC the Northern Territory, and the augmented P for 150 divisions on hand votes to electors. Training was provided deploy ECLs where possible to all pre‑poll to all polling officials using ECLs for the Electoral Commissions for New South Wales, voting centres and all mobile voting teams at by‑elections. Every polling place was also Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, by: Deployment of Electronic Certified Lists (ECLs) for the 2016 federal election provided with a contingency supply of materials required to conduct polling in case ƒƒ analysing demographic and enrolment data Quantity Location of ECL failure. ƒƒ facilitating the public consultation process 51 Static super‑booths in Sydney and Brisbane to enable ballot paper print on demand to help Ahead of the 2016 federal election, 1 544 streamline voting ƒƒ providing support for committee meetings ECLs were deployed (around double the ƒƒ producing and publishing (including on 1 031 Pre‑Poll Voting Centres (PPVCs) with a high estimated number of ordinary votes expected number used in the 2013 election) as shown (13 500+) the AEC website) information about the in the table. redistribution process 149 PPVCs with a high estimated volume of declaration votes expected The AEC will review its use of ECLs in ƒƒ preparing legal instruments, background 78 All remote mobile teams to provide the ability to search for electors by location/establishment delivering streamlined processes and research papers, analysis of public and immediacy of access to marks electoral integrity as part of its evaluation of submissions and material for publication 191 Rural mobile teams (e.g. for hospitals in rural areas) the 2016 federal election. in the Commonwealth Government 44 Spare ECLs in case of technical issues (and to further support polling activity) Notices Gazette.

40 41 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

During April 2016, the AEC sent letters to more The AEC provides updated party registration Party‑registration‑related applications Table 13: Party‑registration‑related than 670 000 households in New South Wales, information on its website including: and requests applications and requests, 2015–16 Western Australia and the Australian Capital ƒƒ the current Register of Political Parties The number of party‑registration related Application/request type Received Territory advising that all enrolled residents at (including registered party names, optional applications or requests in 2015–16 (Table 13) Register a political party 20 the address were now enrolled for a different abbreviations, logos, registered officer was almost double that of 2014–15. This was Voluntarily deregister political party 0 electoral division as a result of the redistribution principally due to the March 2016 amendments details and whether the party wishes to Change party details (including name, 78 in their respective state or territory. Notices receive election funding) to the Electoral Act which, among other things, abbreviation and logo) advising of changes to the names and enabled registered political parties to apply to Change party abbreviation 0 boundaries of electoral divisions were also ƒƒ notices regarding party registration required register a logo and have it appear adjacent placed in newspapers circulating throughout under the Electoral Act Update party office holder information 37 to their candidates’ names on the House of – change registered officer New South Wales, Western Australia and the ƒƒ historical information Representatives ballot paper and adjacent to Australian Capital Territory. Update party office holder information 147 their party or group name above the line on – change other party officials ƒƒ the Party Registration Guide the Senate ballot paper. Other increases were Change other party details 21 Party registrations and ƒƒ statements of reasons for decisions on within the normal pattern of fluctuations during Review of decision of Commissioner’s 0 the electoral cycle. financial disclosure particular applications delegate – refusal to change registered officer Register of Political Parties ƒƒ forms and explanations to help parties The (three‑person) Electoral Commission making applications. reviewed three decisions to deregister a party. Review of decision of Commissioner’s 3 The AEC maintains the Register of Political Of these applications, one party registration delegate – party deregistration Parties as required under Part XI of the

was reinstated and two reviews were still in performance information Additional Electoral Act and provides political parties progress at 30 June 2016. Further details are with advice on how to apply for and maintain available on the AEC website. registration. 3 It also receives and processes applications for party registration, reviews political parties’ SPOTLIGHT eligibility to remain on the Register, and updates contact details for party officials. reporting Political parties are not required to register with Electoral enrolment Direct enrolment is enrolment based on information obtained from other the AEC. However, those that register can be government agencies. This is provided for in law (the Electoral Act). eligible for public election funding (provided a rate hits 95 per cent threshold proportion of first preference votes Enrolling to vote, and voting, are compulsory in Australia for Australian erformance During 2015–16 the AEC achieved an citizens aged 18 and over. P is received), and can have the party name and enrolment rate of 95 per cent – that is, logo printed on ballot papers. Benefits and 95 per cent of all eligible electors were obligations of party registration are outlined in enrolled to vote. These improvements in elector participation The AEC writes to prospective electors to the Party Registration Guide available on the The number of missing electors (electors have resulted in higher levels of roll integrity – in inform them that they intend to add their AEC website. who should be enrolled but are not) has other words, roll completeness and accuracy. name to the roll or update their details, while also giving the elector an opportunity to fallen from highs of more than 1.5 million in These positive changes have been largely due change their details if necessary. 2012 to 807 000 at 30 June 2016. to the AEC’s digital transformation, directing More than 15.6 million people are now on electors towards the online enrolment service, the roll. and the direct update and enrolment process, rather than traditional paper forms. Youth enrolment in particular has risen since the 2013 federal election. Young Almost 80 per cent of enrolments now originate people, regardless of their generation, have from online and direct enrolment. traditionally had lower enrolment rates than older electors.

42 43 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Transparency of political funding Political party and associated entity financial disclosure returns for 2015–16 are due on SPOTLIGHT The Commonwealth funding and financial disclosure scheme, established under Part XX 20 October 2016. Donor and third party returns of the Electoral Act, outlines the requirements for 2015–16 are due on 17 November 2016. Redistributions in ƒƒ Septimus Burt (1847–1919), in relation to the disclosure of detailed financial These returns will be published on the whose public roles included that of information regarding donations to political AEC website on the first working day in Attorney‑General of Western Australia at parties and election campaigns. February 2017. Table 14 shows the number of 2015–16 the time of colonial self‑government returns lodged for the three previous financial ƒƒ Sir Francis Burt (1918–2004), who The disclosure scheme requires that the Redistributions of federal electoral divisions years. served as a judge of the Supreme Court following groups and individuals lodge annual in New South Wales, Western Australia of Western Australia, Chief Justice of or election period financial disclosure returns Online lodgement of returns is available through and the Australian Capital Territory were Western Australia, and Governor of the AEC’s eReturns system, which is a secure completed in early 2016. with the AEC: Western Australia from 1990 until 1993. portal on the AEC website. The uptake of ƒƒ political candidates online lodgement has continued to increase. New South Wales Australian Capital Territory ƒƒ political parties and their associated entities In 2015–16, 67 per cent of returns were The New South Wales redistribution was ƒƒ donors The ACT redistribution was required as completed online, compared with 64 per cent required as the number of members of the ƒƒ other participants in the electoral process. more than seven years had elapsed since in 2014–15 and 62 per cent in 2013–14. House of Representatives to be chosen the last redistribution was determined. The for New South Wales at the 2016 general Financial disclosure returns ACT remains entitled to two members of Compliance reviews of disclosure returns election had decreased from 48 to 47. The the House of Representatives. As well as During 2015–16, the AEC received 627 annual Division of Hunter was abolished. However, The AEC undertakes annual compliance performance information Additional the boundary between the two electoral financial disclosure returns and amendments. as Hunter was first used as the name of a reviews of disclosure returns lodged by divisions being altered, the Division of Fraser federal electoral division in 1901, the Division These included: political parties and associated entities under was renamed as ‘Fenner’ in recognition of 3 of Charlton was renamed as the Division of section 316(2A) of the Electoral Act. Professor Frank Fenner, AC, CMG, MBE, ƒƒ 525 returns and 53 amendments for the Hunter. In recognition of the former Prime FAA, FRS, FRACP, FRCP. Professor Fenner 2014–15 financial year The AEC uses a risk‑based matrix to determine Minister, the Hon. Edward Gough Whitlam was an eminent scientist of national and AC, QC (1916–2014), the Division of ƒƒ 16 returns and 24 amendments for the which parties and entities will be selected for international renown who made significant Throsby was also renamed, becoming the 2013–14 financial year review. The AEC may also select parties or contributions to improving the wellbeing of Division of Whitlam. entities for review on the basis of professional reporting humanity. The name ‘Fraser’ was retired in ƒƒ 1 return and 8 amendments relating to judgment if it is in receipt of information that the ACT to provide the option in the future of returns received for years prior to 2013–14. suggests a review is warranted. Western Australia naming an electoral division in Victoria after The Western Australian redistribution was the former Prime Minister, the Rt Hon. John In 2015–16, the AEC completed 28 such erformance required as the number of members of the Malcolm Fraser, AC, CH. compliance reviews. P House of Representatives to be chosen for Western Australia at the 2016 general Table 14: Financial disclosure returns lodged and published in previous financial years election had increased from 15 to 16. The new Division of Burt is located in the City of Return type 2013–14 2014–15 2015–16 Armadale and the area of Political party 73 92 85 the south‑eastern Perth metropolitan region. Political party – amendment 29 35 41 The name honours succeeding generations Associated entity 185 189 186 of the Burt family for their significant contributions to the justice system and for Associated entity – amendment 16 8 18 their wider contributions to public service, Donor 295 360 239 specifically: Donor – amendment 35 34 26 ƒƒ Sir Archibald Burt (1810–1879), first Chief Political expenditure 45 35 32 Justice of the Supreme Court of Western Political expenditure – amendment 3 3 0 Australia Total financial disclosure returns lodged 681 756 627

44 45 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Election funding Industrial and commercial A total of 1 700 industrial and commercial Key events specific to the delivery of the TSRA The AEC calculates the election funding rate elections (including protected action ballots) elections in July 2016 included: elections were conducted in 2015–16, compared with for each vote received by candidates and ƒƒ delivering candidate information sessions 1 533 the previous year. Of these elections, 273 Senate groups that reached a threshold of The AEC’s Industrial and Commercial Elections across all 20 wards four per cent of the formal first preference vote. (ICE) program comprises three types of were industrial elections, 1 303 were protected Every six months the election funding rate is electoral events that support Australian action ballots, and 124 were fee‑for‑service ƒƒ delivering voter information sessions adjusted in line with the consumer price index workplaces: elections and ballots (including 81 certified across all contested wards (wards are agreement ballots) (see Table 43 in Appendix G not contested if a candidate is nominated and published on the AEC website. ƒƒ industrial elections in accordance with the for more information). unopposed) The election funding rates during 2015–16 Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act were: 2009, the associated regulations and the The ICE program is guided by a specific ƒƒ producing a mobile polling schedule for relevant organisation’s rules strategic plan for 2015–2019. The key focus visiting all contested wards ƒƒ 259.405 cents per first preference vote for of this plan is to ensure that the AEC core ƒƒ protected action ballots in accordance ƒƒ providing three static polling places, to 1 July to 31 December 2015 values of electoral integrity through quality, with the Fair Work Act 2009, the associated include sites on and ƒƒ 262.259 cents per first preference vote for professionalism and agility are embedded in the regulations and Fair Work Commission Cape York 1 January to 30 June 2016. ICE Program. orders ƒƒ post‑election Board member election. Two federal by‑elections were held ƒƒ fee‑for‑service elections and ballots. Torres Strait Regional Authority during 2015–16: Canning (WA), held on elections With 14 wards being contested in the 2016 elections, the AEC will be delivering mobile 19 September 2015, and North Sydney (NSW), Industrial elections The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is held on 5 December 2015. Details of election and static polling to the communities of Boigu, performance information Additional Industrial elections are office bearer elections an Australian Government authority. The TSRA funding payments are provided in Table 15 and , Iama, Poruma, Erub, Badu, Warraber, for organisations registered under the Fair Work Board consists of 20 elected members who are Table 16 below. Mer, St Pauls, Kubin, Hammond, , 3 (Registered Organisations) Act 2009. These all Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal people Port Kennedy and TRAWQ (Communities living in the region. They are elected every four Table 15: 2015 Canning by‑election payment organisations can be either trade unions or of Tamwoy, Rosehill, Aplin, Waiben and years by their individual communities. to political parties and candidates a employer organisations. Quarantine on Thursday Island). The following six wards will not be contested in 2016, as the Political party Amount The AEC delivers the TSRA Elections in Protected action ballots nominated candidate is unopposed: Dauan

accordance with the Aboriginal and Torres reporting Liberal Party of Australia $103 014.91 Protected action ballots provide employees Strait Islander Act 2005 and Torres Strait Island, Masig Island, Ngurapai and Murlag, $78 070.53 with an opportunity to formally vote on Regional Authority Rules 1996. During the Saibai, Seisia and Ugar Island. The Greens (WA) Inc. $12 884.65 proposals for industrial action. year preparations were undertaken for the Total $193 970.09 next TSRA elections, gazetted to be held on erformance Fee‑for‑service elections and ballots P a. No independent candidate obtained the required 30 July 2016. four per cent of the formal first preference vote in Fee‑for‑service elections and ballots are In preparing to deliver the 2016 TSRA order to be eligible for payment of election funding conducted at full cost recovery for clients who entitlements. elections the Queensland State Office project approach the AEC for such services. Authority team incorporated principal elements of the Table 16: 2015 North Sydney by‑election for the AEC to perform this work is prescribed AEC’s reform program, and ratified delivery payment to political parties and candidates in section 7A of the Electoral Act. Authority to of the project through implementation of a charge for this work is set out in section 7B. Political party/candidate Amount memorandum of understanding with TSRA. Liberal Party of Australia $95 175.69 The AEC has minimum standards that must The Greens NSW $31 022.24 be met before it will consider conducting Dr Stephen Ruff (Independent) $37 102.70 fee‑for‑service elections or ballots. These standards are available on the AEC website. Total $163 300.63 Most fee‑for‑service work is for the conduct of a ballot on a proposed enterprise agreement.

46 47 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

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48 49 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Community engagement In addition to the need to inform voters about Phases 2–5: Close of Rolls, education Official guide to the 2016 federal election the reforms to Senate voting, the AEC also on Senate reform, Voter Services and Community Electoral Education Kit Delivered to around 10 million households in delivered phased public awareness activities Formality (May–July 2016) the weeks prior to election day, the Official A new Community Electoral Education to ensure that eligible electors were correctly With the announcement of the election on guide to the 2016 federal election was Kit was published on the AEC website on enrolled, understood their voting obligations Sunday 8 May, the Close of Rolls phase began, designed to provide specific information for 10 May 2016, and received over 2 500 page and were able to cast a formal vote. reminding voters of the need to enrol or update voters on where, when and how they could views in the ensuing two months. In addition a tailored Our Vote Our Future their enrolment details by the 23 May deadline. vote. Expanded in 2016 to accommodate critical information on the Senate voting Library voter information sessions campaign was conducted to encourage Following the conclusion of the formal Close of Indigenous electoral participation (see ‘Services changes, the guide was also translated into 27 A new pilot voter information program was Rolls period, the AEC’s campaign swung back for Indigenous Australians’ section later in this languages and available in braille, large print, introduced during the year, in partnership to awareness of the Senate voting changes, chapter). audio and e‑text versions. with the Australian Libraries and Information providing an opportunity to reinforce the importance of this message within the formal Association, using the Community Electoral Senate reform and the 2016 federal Public relations and promotions Education Kit. The program involved delivering electoral period. This phase ran from 29 May – election In 2015–16 the AEC implemented its national voter information sessions in local libraries. In 11 June 2016. In the months ahead of election day, the AEC media and public relations plan for the 2016 total 116 sessions were delivered in 64 libraries, conducted a national communication campaign The Voter Services phase began on 15 June federal election, with activities taking place in all in 18 languages. to educate Australian electors on the changes following the start of the early voting period, states and territories. A highlight of the period to the Senate voting system. and concluded on 1 July 2016. This phase of was coverage of the remote mobile polling Voter Information Officers the campaign provided information for voters program. Several film crews and journalists The Senate campaign combined with the performance information Additional As part of the public awareness campaign who would be unable to attend a polling attended a media opportunity organised by the election time communication campaign to surrounding the March 2016 changes place on election day and needed to access AEC at the remote location of Bulman in the provide an integrated approach to all facets of to Senate voting, additional staff (Voting alternative voting options. Northern Territory. 3 Information Officers) were allocated to each communication with electors about the 2016 The final phase of the campaign – Formality – polling place for the 2 July 2016 federal federal election. ran in the two weeks prior to election day and Public awareness campaign outcomes election. Around 9 000 Voter Information The campaign was implemented in five focused on providing instructional information The AEC commissioned market researcher Officer kits, including translated materials, were phases, incorporating mass media advertising, to voters on how to complete their House of the Wallis Consulting Group to conduct produced and despatched. reporting public relations, media liaison and a national Representatives and Senate ballot papers benchmarking and tracking research after each mail‑out to all Australians in the weeks prior to Public awareness of electoral to ensure their vote would be counted. The phase of campaign, to ensure the campaign election day. obligations phase also reinforced the importance of was meeting its objectives. understanding the new changes to the Senate In 2015–16 the AEC’s advertising, The research recorded significant increases erformance Phase 1: Pre‑election education on voting system. P communication and public relations strategies Senate reform (26 April – 10 May 2016) in understanding how to vote correctly above focused on the 2016 federal election and All campaign phases used a mixture of and below the line on the Senate ballot The AEC commenced its new advertising the 2015 by‑elections in Canning and communication channels and methods, paper. Understanding for voting above the campaign, Your vote will help shape Australia, North Sydney. ranging from television, radio, online and press line increased from 45 per cent awareness on Tuesday 26 April with mass media advertising, to community based activities, before the campaign to 90 per cent after the Leading up to the federal election, AEC public advertising including television, radio, digital social media messaging and a national mailout campaign. The research also confirmed that awareness activities were concentrated on the and press placements. The first phase focused of election material. Advertising materials were people who recalled the AEC’s communication need to inform electors about the significant on raising awareness of the reforms to Senate also translated in up to 28 languages and 13 campaign were more likely to recall the correct changes to Senate voting that were passed by voting ahead of the formal election period. Indigenous languages. way to vote. Parliament in March 2016.

50 51 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

By‑elections AEC social media National online and telephone Media relations The AEC implemented an integrated Social media plays an integral role in the AEC’s enquiry services Throughout the 2015–16 financial year the AEC communication approach to the by‑elections external communication activities, allowing the The agency’s online enquiry platform allows interacted with the media both proactively and in Canning and North Sydney in 2015–16. At agency to quickly distribute messages to the members of the public to directly contact the reactively regarding key electoral issues. both events, the AEC provided communication public and respond to enquiries. In 2015–16 AEC via the AEC website. The AEC distributed 56 national media products and services ranging from newspaper the AEC’s social media presence included The AEC’s national telephone service provides releases with the vast majority of proactive advertising to online search facilities, media Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. information and receives queries from Monday media messaging detailing key activities during releases and an official guide addressed and At 30 June 2016 the AEC Facebook page had to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm on 13 23 26. The by‑elections in the divisions of Canning and delivered to all voters in each division. over 26 000 page likes, the Twitter account international call number is +61 2 6160 2600. North Sydney, as well as the 2016 federal People with hearing or speech impairment can AEC website over 8 500 followers and the AEC YouTube election. The AEC also provided detailed account over 1 500 subscribers. contact the AEC via the National Relay Service, information to the media on the redistribution The AEC website, www.aec.gov.au, continues Text Telephone (TTY), Speak and Listen and processes underway in 2015 in the Australian The AEC’s Twitter account (@AusElectoralCom) to be the main external communication Internet relay. Capital Territory, New South Wales and was used throughout the 2015–16 financial platform of the agency and employs a Western Australia, as well as the publication year to communicate with what is primarily an During the 2016 federal election the AEC responsive design to ensure it is usable on a of political party financial disclosures in engaged media audience. In total, we posted established an election contact centre service wide range of devices (e.g. desktop computer, early 2016. tablet and mobile phone). 163 tweets during the year. Prior to the start which generally operated from 8 am to 8 pm of the 2016 federal election, the account was local time seven days a week. The level of regular media enquiries received To support the election, the website’s used to provide information about particularly by the AEC varies greatly depending on homepage was focused on helping users newsworthy federal electoral matters that Publications and resources the electoral activity underway at the time. performance information Additional with enrolment, and in providing information included party registration, redistribution A range of publications and resources are During the 2015–16 financial year, enquiries about voting changes. The site complemented processes and financial disclosure. During the available at state, territory and local AEC regarding financial disclosure requirements 3 the new public awareness campaign (see 2016 federal election the level of activity on the offices. Those available online at the AEC and redistribution processes were frequent. previous section) and reflected and responded account increased significantly to proactively website include corporate publications, Throughout the 2016 federal election period to trending issues from the election contact communicate key election information to handbooks, information reference publications, the agency responded to an average of centre. Visitors could customise the homepage the broader electorate and respond to the reports on federal electoral events, and public 120 enquiries per week on a range of by entering a postcode. The website was also increased number of enquiries being received policy, research and evaluation reports. election‑related topics. reporting used to update the public on the progress of through the channel. Proactive communication A range of information materials were produced the count after polling day. via Twitter during the federal election period to support the changes to Senate voting, In 2015–16, the website had 9.5 million users, included contributing to the education including a how‑to‑vote guide that was erformance with 70 per cent of these users visiting after the campaign on the new Senate voting system. P translated into 27 languages. election announcement. Text‑to‑speech software was available on all AEC web pages via a ‘Listen’ button to create an audio version of the content. This new feature enhanced the experience of users with reading difficulties, English as a second language, or a disability.

52 53 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

SPOTLIGHT ‘Your vote will help The research found: Guide to the 2016 federal election Tracking the campaign ƒƒ high awareness of the requirements to In the weeks prior to election day, every To track the success of the campaign, shape Australia’ enrol to vote, but limited awareness of the Australian household also received Your official the AEC conducted benchmarking and deadline for enrolment and updating guide to the 2016 federal election – a printed tracking research after each advertising (‘paper people’) ƒƒ lower awareness of the range of voting publication that included information on how phase. Significant increases were recorded options available to find your polling place, what to do if you in community understanding of how to vote campaign could not make it on election day, and how to correctly in the Senate: ƒƒ limited understanding about how to vote correctly complete both ballot papers. correctly. ƒƒ correct responses for understanding of The Your vote will help shape Australia above‑the‑line rose from 45 per cent to campaign, run by the AEC in the lead‑up Online presence Only one‑fifth of Australians 90 per cent to the 2016 federal election, showcased The AEC’s online presence was a ƒƒ correct responses for understanding of our ability to respond rapidly to a changing were aware of the Senate critical element of the campaign, with all below‑the‑line rose from 40 per cent to electoral landscape and to communicate voting changes. communication driving voters to seek more 76 per cent. with the Australian community in a timely, information on the AEC website. The website informative and effective way. aligned with the campaign advertising and each People who recalled the AEC’s campaign A powerful piece of paper and publicity were more likely to recall the Before each federal election, the AEC phase of the election. Users could personalise performance information Additional Informed by this research, the AEC developed correct way to vote. conducts a national advertising campaign the homepage to show information for their the Your vote will help shape Australia campaign, to inform voters of their obligations to enrol own electoral division. By the end of the campaign, 93 per cent of aiming to educate voters about the changes 3 and vote. In 2016, the amendments to people who had seen or heard the AEC’s to Senate voting, and maximise enrolment and the Senate voting system made educating Social media campaign believed numbering at least six participation in the 2016 federal election. Australian voters even more critical. The campaign was also implemented in boxes above the line was valid, compared The campaign creative theme showcased with 83 per cent for people who hadn’t seen The early election date after the passing of social media, with information flowing through how powerful a piece of paper can be through or heard the AEC’s campaign. the Senate voting changes by the Parliament Facebook, Twitter and the AEC’s YouTube the use of dynamic stop‑motion animation reporting meant that the AEC had a limited time account. The campaign featured in Facebook In addition, 95 per cent of people were techniques, and how ordinary Australians available to research and implement a new Megaphone, which appeared in all Australian aware of the need to enrol. can have a voice in shaping Australia by advertising campaign. Facebook newsfeeds on election day so that participating in the federal election. Elaborately people could share that they were voting and

hand‑crafted paper models were animated encourage their friends to do likewise. erformance Research in‑camera to bring to life the power of a P We immediately commissioned formative humble piece of paper and the possibilities it research to determine voters’ understanding represented on election day. of the changes and participating in a This creative approach gave the AEC federal election, their information needs and an opportunity to provide integrated preferred communication channels. The communication imagery and messaging on a research methodology included: national scale. Mass media advertising was ƒƒ a qualitative component via focus groups combined with dedicated public relations and involving 354 people across seven states education activities, social media engagement, and territories in metropolitan, regional and direct communication with community and remote locations groups. Indigenous Australians and Australians ƒƒ a quantitative component with 1 600 from other culturally and linguistically diverse people, including an online and telephone backgrounds were targeted through translated survey. advertising, public relations and direct communication.

54 55 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Assisting Australians with diverse For new citizens who speak a language other needs than English, we also provide translated As voting is compulsory in Australia, the AEC information on our website about enrolment endeavours to meet the needs of a diverse and voting in 26 languages. range of people when managing electoral events and preparing information for the Service for voters who have a hearing or speech impairment public. We use a range of education and communication initiatives for meeting the needs The AEC also provides a service for voters of Australians with disability (such as hearing, who have a hearing or speech impairment. sight or communication impairments), people The service is operated by the National suffering disadvantage (such as homelessness), Relay Service, which is managed through and people from culturally and linguistically the Australian Communications and Media diverse backgrounds. Authority.

People with disability Services for Indigenous Australians

In addition to supporting the National Disability Indigenous Electoral Participation Participants at Indigenous Electoral Participation Program staff conference 2016 Strategy 2010–2020, the agency uses a Program number of initiatives and outreach activities to Indigenous Australians are less likely to enrol ƒƒ providing electoral information sessions ƒƒ 1 499 page likes on the AEC’s Indigenous improve awareness of, and access to, electoral and vote than other Australians. The AEC’s at key community events, meetings, Facebook page. Posts reached 1 440 135 Additional performance information Additional services. Indigenous Electoral Participation Program conferences and forums to raise awareness people, with 10 824 people directly of enrolment, voting, vote formality and engaging with the information. The AEC held a dedicated information (IEPP) aims to close this gap by increasing democratic processes 3 briefing for representatives of peak disability electoral knowledge, enrolment, turnout and ƒƒ Over 50 media reports on Indigenous organisations to provide details of the services vote formality levels. ƒƒ raising public awareness for federal, state, enrolment and voting services. available to support participation of Australians The IEPP is delivered in urban, regional and local elections with disability in the election. The briefing also Using technology to support service and remote areas by 19 AEC Indigenous ƒƒ contributing to the AEC’s Reconciliation provided an opportunity for representatives delivery Community Engagement Officers, the majority Action Plan and cultural awareness training reporting to share and discuss other election‑related of whom are Indigenous. Under the program, and development of staff. The AEC has introduced a new Community matters of common interest. AEC staff work directly with Aboriginal and and Stakeholder Engagement system (CaSE) Torres Strait Islander people in their local Measures of success which will be a ‘one‑stop shop’ to help staff Translation services communities or in partnership with other effectively plan, undertake, evaluate and report erformance Measures of the AEC’s successful P The AEC provides a translation service, which organisations to deliver electoral services in on Indigenous community and stakeholder communication with Indigenous Australians in is outsourced to the Victorian Interpreting and ways that meet cultural and regional needs. engagement activities. CaSE was completed 2015–16 included: Translating Service (VITS). This service can in June 2016 and is being implemented from In 2015–16, IEPP activities included: also be accessed through the Department of ƒƒ Around 3 000 people enrolling online 1 July 2016. Immigration and Border Protection’s Translating ƒƒ promoting election‑time jobs for Indigenous said they were prompted to enrol by the A customer relationship management and Interpreting Service. Australians through print, online and Indigenous ‘Our Vote Our Future’ campaign. component of the system enables staff to face‑to‑face at Indigenous employment This was an increase of over 200 per cent VITS operated 16 dedicated language‑specific build community profiles – including details events on those who enrolled in 2014–15 as telephone interpreter information lines and of local stakeholders and government and a result of an AEC Indigenous electoral a multilanguage information line. It handled ƒƒ delivering face‑to‑face training for particular non‑government service providers – as a participation campaign. 9 016 calls in 2015–16. A total of 6 521 callers categories of election staff, such as basis for planning and managing community used the translator service to speak directly to Indigenous Voter Information Officers ƒƒ 98 168 views of the AEC’s Indigenous engagement visits. AEC staff. The top three languages used were website page at www.aec.gov.au/ ƒƒ drawing on the rich community knowledge Mandarin (2 942 calls), Cantonese (1 329 calls) Indigenous, an increase of 40 per cent from of IEPP staff to support the delivery of and Vietnamese (831 calls). 2014–15. remote mobile polling services

56 57 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

The system can also be used to support The AEC also worked closely with the As a member of these five organisations, In December 2015, the AEC participated in targeted information dissemination and Department of the Prime Minister and Australia is also a partner in ‘BRIDGE’ – the Indonesian Head of Regional Election election‑related activities at the local level, such Cabinet’s new Regional Network to draw on its the Building Resources in Democracy, Visit Program at the invitation of the KPU. In as Indigenous election staff recruitment. community presence and resources to more Governance and Elections modular April 2016, the AEC supported the delivery effectively engage with remote communities. professional development program. In 2015–16 of BRIDGE ‘Inclusion in Electoral Processes’ A data collection component provides the basis the BRIDGE partnership commenced an training to KPU staff under a DFAT‑funded for nationally consistent program reporting, Before the 2016 election the AEC contracted update and consolidation of the BRIDGE program managed by the International review and evaluation. the Department of Human Services (DHS) to modules, which will be launched throughout Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). provide electoral awareness information to DHS 2016–17. The program is available online at Culturally suitable polling places Indigenous customers in remote areas, and to www.bridge‑project.org/en/. Timor‑Leste In 2016, the AEC introduced a new policy to help them enrol to vote or update their details in The AEC worked with the electoral provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander the electoral roll. These services were provided Asia‑Pacific management bodies in Timor‑Leste – the community leaders the opportunity to give as part of the Department’s regular service The AEC engages with electoral management Secretáriado Técnico de Administração Eleitoral feedback about proposed polling place venues. delivery in remote areas. DHS’s capability bodies in the Asia‑Pacific region through the (STAE) and the Comissão Nacional de Eleições The policy acknowledges that Indigenous includes interpreter services and information on Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand (CNE) – to continue to strengthen electoral Australians are more likely to attend a polling client language preferences. Electoral Administrators network (PIANZEA). capacity. place and vote if the venue is culturally suitable. The initiative yielded 1 089 enrolment In 2015–16, the AEC provided secretariat Program staff consulted 181 Indigenous transactions (386 new enrolments and 703 Papua New Guinea enrolment updates) prior to the close of rolls on services to PIANZEA and provided community representatives in areas with The AEC’s work with the Papua New Guinea

DFAT‑funded electoral support programs in performance information Additional significant numbers of Indigenous voters 23 May 2016. Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor‑Leste, Electoral Commission (PNGEC) through the (where 10 per cent or more of eligible electors Nepal, Myanmar and a number of Pacific Island AEC PNGEC Twinning Program is funded identified as Indigenous Australians in the 2011 Assistance to overseas electoral 3 management bodies countries. by DFAT until the end of 2016. Under Census). the program, the AEC provides targeted, The AEC undertakes international electoral short‑term technical expertise, extending the Feedback received from Indigenous work in accordance with section 7(1)(fa) of the Indonesia long‑standing arrangement that has seen the communities was a key consideration during the Electoral Act, in close cooperation with the In the first three months of 2015–16 the AEC AEC assist with Papua New Guinea’s electoral polling place selection process, along with other continued to maintain its relationship with

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). reporting system since 2002. We currently provide factors such as location, size and amenities. Indonesia’s three electoral management bodies While the majority of funding for the AEC’s technical assistance for electoral training. – the General Elections Commission (KPU), the A total of 198 out of 201 polling places in international work is provided by DFAT, the Elections Supervisory Board (Bawaslu) and the targeted areas were confirmed as culturally AEC also works closely with counterparts in the Autonomous Bougainville Government suitable. Indonesian Elections Ethics Council (DKPP) – erformance Asian, Pacific and Southern African regions, P through participation in the Australia Indonesia In 2015–16, the AEC continued to provide and with other providers of international technical assistance to the Office of the Strategic partnerships Electoral Support Program. The Program electoral assistance, including the: ended in September 2015. Bougainville Electoral Commissioner (OBEC) to An AEC priority is to build and foster support local level elections. partnerships with government and ƒƒ International Foundation for Electoral non‑government agencies to extend the reach Systems (IFES) The program was funded by DFAT as part of and impact of services to Aboriginal and ƒƒ United Nations Electoral Assistance Division the broader Australian electoral assistance Torres Strait Islander voters. This is particularly (UNEAD) program in Papua New Guinea. important in remote locations. ƒƒ United Nations Development Programme In 2015–16, the AEC worked with 1 626 (UNDP) government and non‑government stakeholders ƒƒ International Institute for Democracy and to improve audience coverage and increase the Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) reach of the IEPP. ƒƒ Commonwealth Secretariat (an intergovernmental organisation of which Australia is a member).

58 59 Australian Electoral Commission Annual Report 2015–16

Pacific Island countries AEC staff were included in official Australian Government election observation teams that SPOTLIGHT In 2015–16, the AEC provided support to Pacific Island electoral management bodies observed the elections in Shan and Kayin both through bilateral assistance programs State, as well as attending polling in a variety around 1 000 said they enrolled as the result and through provision of support through the of locations, and observing vote receipt and Indigenous Our of AEC Indigenous electoral participation PIANZEA network. Activities included: counting in township offices. The teams campaigns. contributed to broader international observer Vote Our Future ƒƒ providing operational support to the Tonga Indigenous Community Engagement reports through the Australian Embassy. Electoral Commission in advance of Town campaign Officer Murray Johnston, who works out of the AEC’s Perth office, confirmed that and District Offices elections in 2016 Nepal In 2015–16, the AEC’s Indigenous Electoral the Indigenous population aged under 25 ƒƒ supporting DFAT’s electoral observation The AEC program assisting the Election Participation Program (IEPP) focused its ‘is difficult to reach through conventional mission for snap elections in Vanuatu in Commission of Nepal (ECN) and staff of the advertising, communication and public media’. January 2016 Nepalese Electoral Education and Information relations activities on the 2016 federal ‘Using positive role models through online Centre (EEIC) finished in December 2015. ƒƒ supporting the development of electoral election. communities is an effective way to get young At this point, the EEIC had officially opened, trainers in the Pacific through a regional In particular, the AEC’s Indigenous campaign people to pay attention. In my experience and, with the support of AEC educators, ‘Train the facilitator’ program in August 2015 sought to ensure that all eligible Indigenous Indigenous youth are very enthusiastic about was delivering successful education sessions voters were enrolled before the close‑of‑rolls high‑profile personalities, particularly when it ƒƒ supporting a mentoring program for the to students and other visitors. Further, the involves AFL or NRL.’ deadline and understood the changes to the Fijian Elections Office focused on the accreditation of a BRIDGE Facilitator at voting system. Queensland Local Government election in Accrediting Level provided the ECN with performance information Additional A range of tailored Indigenous March 2016 internal capacity to deliver training using their own preferred training approach. 3 communications materials were developed ƒƒ organising a regional conference and around the tagline ‘Our Vote Our Future’ workshops on electoral systems and and through the use of culturally appropriate Meetings with international counterparts disability issues for members of the visual branding. Indigenous Community In 2015–16, senior AEC staff met with a range Engagement Officers distributed materials PIANZEA network. of international counterpart organisations. through the Indigenous press, online, reporting through relevant stakeholder organisations, Myanmar These included the: and in areas with high levels of Indigenous The AEC supported delivery of a cascade ƒƒ Commonwealth Electoral Network Steering population. training program for polling officials in Committee partnership with the Union Election Most notably, the campaign included a ƒƒ Electoral Commission of India erformance series of five video messages produced for Commission in Myanmar, ahead of historic ƒƒ Elections Canada P Indigenous youth by Indigenous creative national elections in November 2015. Together ƒƒ Four Countries Conference (United Kingdom, agency Carbon Media and disseminated with the International Foundation for Electoral Canada, New Zealand and Australia). mainly through Facebook and YouTube. Systems (IFES), AEC provided training that The videos featured high profile Indigenous ultimately reached 81 000 polling station Hosting international visitors personalities, including Lewis Jetta with Murray Johnston, AEC Community Engagement Officer, Perth. officials running some 41 000 polling stations footballer Sam Thaiday, AFL star Lewis In 2015–16 the AEC hosted international across the country. International observers Jetta, international model Samantha Harris study programs, delegations and visitors commented positively on the quality of polling and Madelaine Madden, grand‑daughter of from Bougainville, Fiji, Korea, New Zealand, Charlie Perkins. operations and performance of polling officials Pakistan, Thailand, the United States, Vanuatu on election day. and Vietnam. In 2015–16, 3 000 Indigenous Australians enrolling online said they were prompted to enrol as a result of the ‘Our Vote Our Future’ campaign. This was a significant increase compared with 2014–15, when

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