Library & Innovation Centre

The right to take part in public affairs and elections guarantees the right of citizens to stand for public office, to vote in elections and to have access to positions in public service.

The Australian Parliament represents the people and makes laws and important decisions on their behalf. The Parliament is interested in the opinions of Australians, who have a right to be involved in this decision-making. There are many ways that individuals and organisations can have their say about the actions and decisions of the Parliament.

The most direct way to have an impact in your community is to vote. All you need to do is enrol.
If you are 18 years or older, it is compulsory to be enrolled to vote.

When an election comes around, all Australians over the age of 18 will have the right to vote. But it hasn't always been that way.