Those waiting to hear the result of the Eden-Monaro by-election should not expect a fast outcome, as vote counting is predicted to take longer than usual due to COVID-19.
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The 14 candidates have rushed through a very short campaign period, as former MP Mike Kelly only announced his resignation from the seat in late April and the July 4 by-election date was made public about a month later.
On Wednesday, an Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) spokesperson said due to current health safety measures it is likely to take longer to formally declare a final result in the by-election compared with previous federal by-elections.
"But, as per our normal practice, the AEC will do everything possible to provide an indicative result on polling night," they said.
The spokesperson said the AEC's count arrangements on by-election night will include an appropriate number of staff to count, in polling places, the expected number of pre-poll votes and a portion of estimated postal votes.
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"These arrangements have been determined by the number and type of votes at this by-election, with a modelling approach informed by previous elections and the impact of social-distancing protective measures in place," they said.
"The counting of votes will take longer due to the approved COVID-19 safety measures in place in polling places and at our counting centre.
"The expected increase in postal and pre-poll votes cast will also impact the speed of the count, noting the legislative requirement to wait 13 days after election day for the return of postal votes."
Albert McKnight
Journalist at Bega District News.
Journalist at Bega District News.
