Vote

About votingTop

How does voting work? provides information about the various voting and counting systems used in Victoria.

Secret ballotTop

The secret ballot means that nobody else can see how you have voted. Strict policies and procedures are in place for the confidential handling of all ballot papers.

Victoria was the first democracy in the world to introduce the secret ballot and it is still an important part of Victoria's electoral system. A booklet which details the fascinating story of the introduction of the secret ballot in 1856 can be downloaded from our publications page.

Where to voteTop

At State elections, most people vote at voting centres on election day. All voting centres are open between 8:00am and 6:00pm. Voting centre locations are advertised in the media and on this website before the election.

For local council elections, each council chooses the voting method that will be used - attendance or postal. The type of voting is noted in all advertising and will be clearly identified on this website as early as possible. Most councils choose postal voting but you should check on this website well before election day.

Assistance for votersTop

The VEC offers a range of services and resources for voters who require assistance.

Common voting questionsTop

• Why is voting important?
• What happens if I fail to vote?
• How do I vote in council elections?
• How do I vote in State elections?
• See other common voting questions