FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 04/04/2025

Households are now receiving letters in their mailboxes with information about postal voting for the upcoming Federal Election on May 3, but those who receive them may not realise they are returning their forms to major party campaign officers rather than the Australian Electoral Commission, says Suzie Holt.

“Voters should know that this is a method used by major parties to harvest their data, and the taxpayer foots the bill”, says Holt.

By virtue of a mutual agreement between the major parties years ago, sitting members can use their printing and and postage allowance, something challengers can’t access.

Ms Holt urges people who want to request a postal vote to do so directly from the AEC either online at www.aec.gov.au or at their offices at 15/532-534 Ruthven St, Toowoomba.

Ms Holt says its one of the ‘perks of office’ that needs addressing.

“When elected I will move for amendments to the Electoral Reform Bill to level the playing field for all candidates. Why should one candidate be advantaged to the tune of about $30,000?”

She also points out that the incumbent’s Electoral Office and the Electorate Office staff should not be used for campaigning, nor should electorate office equipment.

“There should be a separate office for the campaign of the incumbent and the electorate office staff who are employed by the Australian Parliament should continue to deal with constituent issues. I trust that Mr Hamilton is abiding by these obligations” Ms Holt said.

“If the major parties really do offer the best representation, they shouldn’t require a taxpayer advantage
to win”.