What is the SA First Nations Voice to Parliament Election?
In 2023 Legislation to establish a Voice to Parliament in SA has passed both houses in South Australian Parliament. Elections were held off until now because there were concerns this process would create confusion if it ran during the federal voice referendum.
Candidates will be elected to represent six regions across the state and two members from each of these local groups will then form the State First Nations Voice.
The Local First Nations Voice groups will have a focus on local issues working with organisations and local government within the region.
The State First Nations Voice will be able to present to both houses of Parliament and are entitled to be heard on Bills. They will also engage with Government through Ministers and Chief Executives of Government departments.
Who can vote?
As the Voice is a representative body for First Nations people in SA, only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to vote and run as a candidate in these elections.
In order to vote you must be a First Nations person enrolled on the electoral roll by 5pm on 12 February.
You can enrol and check your enrolment details via the Australian Electoral Commission. If you’ve voted in state or federal elections, or a referendum before then you’re already enrolled.
If you’re interested in running as a candidate, you can find more information on the nomination process and eligibility here.
Why should I vote?
The basis of the Voice is that the elected members will represent their local communities, so to do that they must first be elected by their communities!
When and where do I vote?
Polling day will be held on Saturday 16 March 2024.
As always, if you’re unable to get there on election day there will be early voting centers open from 6 March – 15 March or you can apply for a postal vote closer to the elections.
Mobile polling will also be conducted in regional and remote communities beginning 4 March.
Just like other state and federal elections, and referendums, there will be polling locations across the state. These locations and options will all be listed ahead of time.
You can find out more about the elections and the SA First Nations Voice to Parliament from the Electoral Commission of South Australia – they've got written, visual and video resources in both English and Pitjantjatjara.
