West Australian voters with disability will have an additional option to cast their vote this election, with the trial of a specially designed accessible early-voting service in Perth. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is partnering with Activ to trial accessible early-voting centres in Wembley and Bentley.

The accessible early-voting centres will operate out of Activ premises, ensuring very strong physical accessibility and a variety of layouts to meet the needs of different voters. AUSLAN interpreters will be available via Skype at both sites and staff, which include Activ volunteers, will receive targeted training to ensure they can provide voters with an inclusive service that allows full participation in the electoral process. Activ has worked with the AEC on physical layouts and accessibility features, operating hours and staffing. The West Australian Government is also supporting the service, with a Local Coordinator from the Department of Communities seconded to the AEC to oversee the trial.

Our Chief Executive Officer, Danielle Newport, said Activ is proud to support its customers’ right to participate in the democratic process. “We are the first organisation to partner with the AEC in this way to facilitate accessible voting,” she said. “Making it easier for people living with a disability to exercise their right to vote in the Federal election strongly aligns with Activ’s values and purpose.”

Voters looking for an accessible polling centre can vote from May 13 – 17 at the below locations:

North – 327 Cambridge Street, Wembley | 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
South – 25 Ewing Street, Bentley | 8.30 a.m. – 3.00 p.m.

Click here for more information.