A new report has urged the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) to overhaul voting centre accessibility during state elections to reduce barriers for people with disability.
The Parliament’s Electoral Matters Committee has made 61 recommendations after a 10-month review of the way the VEC selects, operates and equips voting centres.
“Some of these are simple, such as providing more seating and signage,” said Committee Chair, Mathew Hilakari.
“Others will require more planning and investment, such as developing a system to provide more detailed information about the accessibility of venues and redesigning voting booths.
“Staff training is also essential to create inclusive voting experiences.”
The report makes 62 findings, including that many people with disability face barriers when they go to vote, despite efforts by the VEC to make voting centres more accessible.
“Real progress will also require a new approach to how the VEC develops plans and measures performance,” Mr Hilakari said.
“Accessibility should be built into systems from the beginning, not treated as a later add-on. The VEC should take a whole-of-journey approach that considers all aspects of the voting experience for people with disability, not just what happens in a voting centre.”
The multi-party committee received 52 submissions and gathered evidence directly from the VEC, as well as numerous disability advocates.
“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this inquiry,” Mr Hilakari said.
“Many people shared their experiences and ideas through written submissions and at public hearings. These were central to the Committee’s understanding of the issues, and we appreciate the time and effort that went into them.
“I encourage the VEC to carefully consider the Committee’s recommendations and work towards making voting accessible to every Victorian.”
Victoria’s next state election is due to be held on Saturday 28 November.
The full report, as well as a plain language summary and videos in Auslan, has been published on the Committee’s website.
