Tim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister to the Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction) | Hansard source

I present the explanatory memorandum to this bill and move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

Today I introduce the Electoral Legislation Amendment (COVID Enfranchisement) Bill 2022.

This measure builds upon the powers granted to the Australian Electoral Commissioner under the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Contingency Measures) Act 2021 and the measures the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is already taking to deliver a COVID-safe election.

The bill amends the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Electoral Act) to allow the option to provide a contingency arrangement for electors in mandatory isolation or quarantine due to COVID-19 during the final 72 hours before polling to participate in the upcoming federal election.

It can allow regulations to be made to expand the Australian Electoral Commission's existing secure telephone voting service to persons in mandatory isolation due to COVID-19.

This accessibility of this service would be limited to some or all persons in Australia subject to a public health order that prevents attendance at a polling place for the following reasons:

Further access to telephone voting for coronavirus affected persons can only be enlivened where the Electoral Commissioner has issued an instrument advising that he is satisfied on reasonable grounds that the extension of this service is necessary or conducive to ensure the due conduct of an election. The Electoral Commissioner will be required to notify the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition before issuing a legislative instrument which must also be published on the AEC website. The Electoral Commissioner must also inform them about any integrity measures that will apply to safeguard the conduct of the poll using the telephone method of participation. This instrument would enliven the process for telephone voting in accordance with the rules set out in the regulations. The regulations will have the option to specify the circumstances and the order of admission for votes cast using this method. These provisions will automatically repeal on 31 December 2022.

This bill demonstrates the government's commitment to enhancing the franchise to ensure eligible voters have an opportunity to vote. These amendments proactively respond to also assist the AEC in conducting safe, efficient and timely elections in a COVID-19 environment. I commend this bill.

Debate adjourned.

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