The AEC announced on 22 September a record 97.7 per cent of eligible Australians are enrolled to vote in the upcoming 2023 referendum.
The roll has increased by 447,447 people since the 2022 federal election, a rise of 2.6 per cent.
More than 8.4 million people on the electoral roll were not enrolled when the last referendum was held in 1999 – this is more than 47 per cent of the electoral roll.
The 8.4 million people includes 6.7 million people who were under 18 (or not born) at the time as well as 1.7 million other people who are new to the roll since 1999 – many of whom are new Australian citizens.
Australian Electoral Commissioner, Tom Rogers said such a complete electoral roll is a result of years of hard work by the AEC.
“With many nations around the world campaigning to get even three quarters of their population enrolled to vote, this result is a continuing source of Australian democratic pride,” Mr Rogers said.
“In between the announcement of the referendum date and close of rolls, approximately 79,000 people were added to the roll with 376,000 other eligible Australians updating their details.”
“The youth enrolment rate has also increased to 91.4 per cent which means approximately 1.8 million 18-24-year-olds are ready to vote and have their say in their first referendum.”
In terms of First Nations enrolment, this sits at 94.1 per cent and is the highest it has ever been.”
“Well done Australia. Now it’s time to have your say.”
