The race is on for key Independent candidates, with a federal election called for the first weekend of May. Voters will head to the ballot box on Saturday, 3 May to have their say and help decide the future of our nation.
The Riverina -the federal electorate which covers Cowra Shire Council - has been held by the Nationals and formerly the Country Party since 1980. The Nationals' Michael McCormack stands as incumbent against several up-and-coming independents, having held the seat since 2010.
Candidates have a short five-week campaign period to win over voters in the electorate, which holds a 9.7% margin in Mr McCormack's favour. Voters, however, have just a few days to register to vote, if they have changed address, or if they are enrolling for the first time.
Australian Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope reminded residents that voting is compulsory, and it only takes a few minutes to check or update your details.
“A federal election is Australia’s great festival of democracy, and no matter what your circumstances are, the Australian Electoral Commission has voting options available," he said.
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“Australia’s electoral roll is already sitting at an incredible 97.8% of eligible voters enrolled, but we know the announcement of an election will be an incentive for new voters in particular to get enrolled.
“Enrolling takes less than five minutes and can be done online. For the first time at a federal election, you can now use your Medicare card to enrol – it’s never been easier.”
Registrations are open until 8pm on Monday, 7 April, at www.aec.gov.au/enrol.
