Voting in the 2023 Referendum
On 14 October 2023, Australians will be asked to vote in a referendum to alter the Constitution.
The Australian High Commission to the United Kingdom (Australia House) will be an in-person voting centre and postal vote collection centre. All eligible Australians both living in or visiting the United Kingdom during voting will be able to vote.
If you’re in the UK and unable to make it to Australia House it is recommended that you apply for a postal vote. Postal vote packs will be sent from Australia, so you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
CHECK YOUR ENROLMENT
To be eligible to vote, you must be enrolled. Please ensure that your enrolment details are up to date. Check your enrolment on the Australian Electoral Roll at https://check.aec.gov.au/
Staff at Australia House cannot answer questions relating to your enrolment, postal vote applications or personal voter circumstances with regard to voting in this Referendum. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) can be contacted directly by Ph: +61 2 6160 2600, or by using their online enquiry form question (aec.gov.au)
In-person voting will be held at the Australian High Commission in London, which is located at:
Australia House
Strand
London WC2B 4LA (corner of Aldwych and Strand)
IN-PERSON VOTING AT AUSTRALIA HOUSE
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*AHC observing Canberra recognised public holiday for Labour Day.
Please note that due to the time difference between the UK and Australia, the Australian High Commission will not be open on 14 October which is polling day in Australia. Voting services at Australia House will close at 6pm on Friday 13 October.
Postal Votes
You can return your postal vote directly to the AEC in Australia or you can drop it off at the Australian High Commission no later than 7.00pm, Thursday 12 October 2023.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Security: The polling place will involve security screening. Please do not bring large bags/luggage. There are no storage facilities and large bags/luggage are not permitted inside the voting hall. Only liquids that are non-alcoholic with sealable lids and water bottles will be admitted into the voting hall. You will need valid photo identification, such as your drivers’ licence or passport. Prohibited items include knives and sharp, offensive weapons, liquids except for non-alcoholic, sealable lids & water bottles.
Peak periods: Long queues form at peak periods, particularly between 12pm – 2pm and, after 5pm. Saturday during pre-polling is the busiest period, and delays may be experienced. We encourage Australians to avoid these times, if possible.
Queues: Australians should join the queue on the Aldwych side of Australia House. Unfortunately, with the likelihood of a queue outside of the High Commission, some will not be protected from inclement weather.
Bathroom facilities: The Australian High Commission does not have public restrooms or baby changing facilities.