How do I fill in my First Nations Voice ballot?

Note: before you read this, please make sure you're registered to vote. There's nothing worse than showing up on election day and finding out you didn't register, and can't vote. Click here to make sure you're enrolled to vote.

To vote in a First Nations Voice election when you arrive at a polling station you will need to sign a declaration saying you are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Once you sign your declaration you’ll be given one ballot (on top of your two state election ballots)

If you’re wondering why we vote the way we do check out this post.

First, some key points:

• The ballot papers have the instructions on them, so you don't have to memorise this. It's just to help you be know what you will be faced with.

• If you make a mistake, you can always ask for another ballot paper.

• If you draw an illustration, or write things on your ballot papers, and those drawings or writing enters the square boxes... there's a chance your vote could not count.

• Technically, you don't need to fill in the ballot papers. You can hand them in blank if you really want to.

First Nations Voice ballot

Small green ballot

Who am I voting for? 

Representatives for your Region.

What does that mean?

You’re picking someone who will represent you and your area.

What does it look like?

Example First Nations Voice ballot (source: Electoral Commission of South Australia)

How do I fill it in?

• Choose one or more candidates in the order of your preferences.

• Put a '1' in the box next to your most preferred candidate (or party).

• You can then put a '2' in the next next to your second most preferred.

• Keep going until you have numbered all the candidates you want to, or all the boxes are marked.

• Make sure the numbers are clear and none are repeated.

Find more information on voting in a First Nations Voice election here.