The Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten, has welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement that the Federal Election will be held on the 14^th of September this year.

“The Prime Minister has put an early end to election speculation so that everyone can plan the year ahead, knowing that election day will be Saturday the 14^th of September,” Mr Shorten said.

“It will be a welcome relief for householders and businesses, who will now have more than adequate time to carefully weigh up candidates and their policies.

“We can now avoid all the speculation about election timing and cut straight to the substance – a comparison of policies and competing visions for our community and country.”

Mr Shorten urged residents to ensure that their electoral enrolment is up to date, and that they are enrolled at their current address.

“Anyone who has recently turned 18, or will have that landmark birthday on or before the 14^th of September, should also make sure they are enrolled to vote.

“I would like to see all eligible people take part of our democratic process and have their say in the future direction of our country.

Residents should also remember that pre-poll and postal voting is available to those who will be away from the electorate or busy on election day.

“Recent elections show a marked increase in pre-poll voting, and it is a convenient option for many people who would otherwise find it difficult to get to the polls on election day.

“A great advantage of the Prime Minister’s announcement is that everyone will have plenty of time to make voting arrangements,” Mr Shorten said.  

 The boundaries of the Maribyrnong electorate have also changed due to an AEC redistribution, and Mr Shorten welcomed the 14,000 new electors in Strathmore, Braybrook, Maidstone and St Albans.

To enrol to vote or update enrolment, go to www.aec.gov.au/enrol; to check enrolment go to www.aec.gov.au/check  or call 132326. Enrolment forms are also available at any AEC office, Australia Post outlet or at Mr Shorten’s electorate office (Suite 1A, 12 Hall St, Moonee Ponds). 

ENDS

Suburbs in the Maribyrnong electorate include: Aberfeldie, Airport West, Avondale Heights, Brooklyn (part), Essendon, Essendon North, Essendon West, Kealba, Keilor East,  Maribyrnong (part), Moonee Ponds, Niddrie, St Albans, Sunshine North, Strathmore (part), Braybrook, and Maidstone.

 Media Contact:

Jayne Edwards: 9326 1300 / 0410 455 737

Kieran Barns-Jenkins: 9326 1300 / 0421 838 878