What is a referendum?
In Australian federal politics, a ‘referendum’ is a public vote to change the Australian Constitution. Voters can accept or reject a change to the constitution by answering 'Yes' or 'No' to a pre-arranged question on their ballot paper on polling day. For a referendum to pass, the majority of voters in a majority of at least four states (a double majority) must vote ‘Yes’ to the change.
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) will hold a referendum on October 14th, 2023. Information on referendums, and the 2023 referendum, can be found at the following links:
Australian Human Rights Commission - Referendums and constitutional change
The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) is an independent third party which investigates complaints about discrimination and human rights breaches. They have have information on the 2023 referendum.
First Nations Referendum Working Group
The Working Group is comprised of diverse First Nations leaders from across Australia, and is advising the Government on the referendum. Its focus includes: the timing of the referendum, the wording of the constitutional amendment and question and information about the principles of the Voice.
The Australian Electoral Commission
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is responsible for providing the Australian people with an independent electoral service.
Everyone on the Australian electoral roll must vote in the referendum. Voting is compulsory, just like elections.
Australian citizens aged 18 and older must enrol to vote. If you're on the electoral roll, you don't need to enrol for the referendum.
You can enrol to vote or update your electoral details on the AEC website.
At a referendum, you will receive a ballot paper with the proposed alteration to the Constitution on it, followed by a question asking if you approve the proposed alteration. On the referendum ballot paper you need to indicate your vote by clearly writing:
You can practice voting here.