How to make an election complaint
A process for managing election complaints is available throughout the election. It can be used by candidates, campaigners, scrutineers and voters to make a complaint.
A complaint could be about the conduct of a person, how the Election Rules have been applied, the validity of an election or any other issue reasonably connected to the election.
Complaints will be resolved in accordance with the Election Rules. Depending on the nature of the complaint, it may be determined by the Returning Officer or a Dispute Resolution Panel, which is a panel of respected Aboriginal community members convened by the Treaty Authority. Aboriginal Peacemakers may be appointed for the election process with the purpose of seeking to resolve disputes in a culturally-based way, including seeking informal resolutions or de-escalating complaints wherever possible. A person making a complaint may be given the option of using this service.
If you disagree with a decision on a complaint you are involved in, you may be able to appeal the decision to the Dispute Resolution Panel.
Complaints need to be made in writing to the Transitional Electoral Officer using the contact details below.
It should include the reasons for the complaint and the persons involved. Complaints can be made at any time during the election, until seven days after the announcement of election results. Election Complaints submitted after 5pm on Friday 1 May will not be accepted.
Anyone considering lodging an Election Complaint is encouraged to carefully review the Election Rules and ensure they understand the grounds on which a complaint may be made and the relevant timeframes for lodging a complaint. Anyone considering making a complaint should also consider the evidence or information available to support the complaint.
Individuals may wish to seek clarification or information from the Returning Officer or the Transitional Electoral Officer about the complaint process prior to lodging.
Independent Election Administrator Returning Officer
Gavin Ryan
e: [email protected]
m: 0403 336 829