You must be on the electoral register to have a postal or proxy vote. New regulations have been introduced to make absent voting (postal or proxy voting) at elections more secure. As part of this process all postal and proxy vote applications must include a signature and date of birth. Be careful when signing within the signature box and avoid going into the shaded grey border as the scanner cannot then read it.

What to do if you can't provide a signature

If you are unable to provide a signature due to any disability, you can request a waiver for the signature requirement. The request must include the reason(s) for the request along with the name and address of any person who has assisted him/her with the completion of the application. Contact us to request a personalized waiver application form.

Postal and proxy vote application

You can complete the postal vote application form below, but we will provide a personalised form for you if you contact us. In order to set up an overseas postal or proxy vote, an elector must first be registered as an overseas elector. Contact us to request:

•  A personalized postal vote application form, or
•  A proxy vote for a particular election application form
•  Information about proxy votes for other reasons

Completed application forms for new absent votes, or to change or amend existing absent votes, must be received by electoral services before the statutory deadline for an election.

Postal voting deadlines

 Your request for a new postal vote application form must be received by us no later than 5pm, 11 working days before the election poll. The deadline for changes to existing postal votes is 5pm 11 working days before the poll. Once an election is called every eligible elector on the register who is an absent voter is sent a poll card confirming the elector's voting arrangements. Postal votes for elections will be sent out according to the statutory timetable.

Proxy voting deadlines

Your request for a new proxy vote application form must be received by us no later than 5pm, 6 working days before the election poll. The deadline for changes to existing proxy votes is 5pm, 11 working days before the poll. The deadline for applications to vote by proxy on grounds of a medical emergency is 5pm on the day of the poll. If you have a medical emergency, your application to vote by emergency proxy will need to be supported and signed by the appropriate medical practioner or health professional.