By Clyde Mooney – editor Australian Hotelier
With the 2013 Federal Election fast approaching, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is calling on employers of young workers to encourage them to have their say.
Almost 10 per cent of the eligible voting population is not on the Electoral roll, with the largest sector of this group – half a million Australians – aged 18 to 24 years.
“Most 18-24 year olds are currently working full or part time, with a large portion in hospitality, retail, construction and clerical roles,” electoral commissioner Ed Killesteyn told TheShout.
“A healthy democracy is one in which all eligible Australians exercise their right to vote.
“The first step before you can vote, is making sure your name is on the electoral roll,” said Commissioner Killesteyn.
Enrolling or checking enrolment information can be easily done online and takes only a few minutes. Only one in two 18-year-olds and two in three 19-year-olds are enrolled.
Employers can register here for a kit of materials to help them encourage enrolment.
“Workplaces can play a valuable role in encouraging employees to enrol now and not leave it to the last minute. We are encouraging Australian employers to register for an e-kit to help spread the enrolment message,” said Killesteyn.