More than 5000 enrolled voters in Greater Shepparton to receive a fine

By Jemma Jones

Feb 19, 2025

Nearly 530,000 Victorians face a $99 fine.

The Victorian Electoral Commission has revealed how many ‘fail to vote’ fines will be issued in the coming weeks for electorates across the Goulburn Valley.

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Nearly 530,000 Victorians who seemingly didn’t vote in the 2024 local council elections face a $99 fine unless they provide a valid explanation.

On Monday, February 17, the Electoral Commission announced that affected voters would receive an ‘Apparent failure to vote’ notice within the next week, though fines are not automatic.

Some 5162 voters will receive a notice in Greater Shepparton, while 3544 voters in Campaspe Shire are facing fines.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel explained that the notice provided an opportunity for voters to justify their absence from the polls.

“If you respond to the notice in writing with a valid reason and evidence, you are much more likely to be excused,” he said.

Voters have 28 days to complete and return the notice to the Electoral Commission, providing an opportunity to avoid the fine if their explanation is accepted.