Voters are warned to turn up to the polls for the NSW state election or risk facing hefty fines
- People are being urged to vote at the 2019 NSW state election or face hefty fines
- Failing to vote will set you back $55, which is double the fine for federal elections
- Turning up to vote in the New South Wales state election is compulsory
People have been urged to turn up and vote at tomorrow's NSW state election or face hefty fines.
Failing to vote in the state election on Saturday will set you back $55 in fines, which is more than double the penalty for not voting in a federal election, which is $20.
Voting is compulsory and the NSW Electoral Commission has advised anyone who is unsure whether they are enrolled to vote to check online before the polls close.
People have been urged to turn up and vote at tomorrow's NSW state election or face hefty fines - with double the usual penalties being handed out
Failing to vote in the state election on Saturday will set you back $55 in fines, which is more than double the penalty for not voting in a federal election, which is $20. Pictured: Labor party campaigners
'If it appears you didn't vote at an election you were eligible for in New South Wales, we will send you a formal penalty notice in the post,' the website states.
The fine must be paid within 28 days - unless a sufficient reasons can be given for not voting - but the commission has warned only a few allowances will be given.
'Not knowing that an election was being conducted is not a sufficient reason for the failure to vote at an election,' the website sates.
If someone believes they should be excused from voting, they can dispute the fine by writing to the commission or by using the non-voter self-service portal online.
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The website sates: 'If you do ask to be excused, you must provide a brief and honest explanation for why you were unable to vote.'
If the excuse is rejected, disputing the matter in court is another option but this can result in additional penalties and costs, which could significantly outweigh the fine.
As an added incentive, many polling locations hold sausage sizzles for voters, but as the commission states, voting gives people the chance to choose their government.
'You have an important role to play in choosing your government,' the website sates.
Voting is compulsory and the NSW Electoral Commission has advised anyone who is unsure whether they are enrolled to vote to check online before the polls close on Saturday. Pictured: Liberal party campaigners
