Voting Resources for People with Disability: Federal Election 2025

Voting Resources for People with Disability: Federal Election 2025

The Federal Election is scheduled for Saturday, 3rd May 2025. As disability service providers and workers, you play a vital role in ensuring NDIS participants and people with disability can exercise their right to vote. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) offers a variety of accessible resources to support participation in the voting process.

Accessible Voting Resources

The AEC provides resources tailored for people with disability, available in multiple formats to meet diverse needs:

• Braille: For voters who are blind or have low vision.
• DAISY: Digital accessible information system for audio navigation.
• MP3 Audio: Audio files for auditory access.
• Large Print: For voters with vision impairment.
• E-Text: Electronic text compatible with screen readers.
• Easy Read: Simplified language for better comprehension.
• Social Story Format: Visual and narrative guides to explain the voting process.

These resources ensure that people with disability can access information about voting, understand the process, and participate independently or with support. You can find these resources here: https://www.aec.gov.au/assistance/

How You Can Help

As a disability service provider or worker, you can support NDIS participants by:

1. Sharing Information: Distribute the AEC’s resources to participants and their families. Direct them to the AEC’s dedicated page: Information for People with Disability – Australian Electoral Commission.
2. Discussing Voting: Talk to participants about their voting rights and the importance of their voice in the election.
3. Providing Support: Assist with accessing resources, understanding voting options (e.g., in-person, postal, or assisted voting), or arranging transport to polling places. A great tool call VOTE Compass may help to determine where their views align with a party: https://www.abc.net.au/news/vote-compass
4. Promoting Inclusion: Encourage participants to engage in the democratic process and address any barriers they may face.

Why It Matters

Voting is a fundamental right, and ensuring accessibility empowers people with disability to have their say in shaping Australia’s future. By sharing these resources, you help foster inclusion and independence for NDIS participants.

For more details, visit the AEC website or contact your local AEC office to learn about additional support available during the 2025 Federal Election.

Let’s work together to make voting accessible for everyone!

Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.

Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector. She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of individuals facing similar challenges.