Australian Electoral Commission fines over 1.3 million non‑voters after 2025 federal election

More than 1.3 million Australian voters who failed to cast a ballot in the 2025 federal election have been penalised under the country's compulsory‑voting law. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) issued notices to non‑voters, imposing a $20 administrative fine that can rise to $330 if referred to court. About 207,314 individuals paid the initial fine, contributing roughly A$4.15 million in fees, while over 250,000 received exemptions after providing valid reasons. Around 710,000 recipients did not reply to the notice and remain liable for further penalties.

The AEC said each case is assessed individually and, if necessary, may be taken to court. Australia’s compulsory‑voting system is among only a handful of democracies worldwide, and the 2025 election recorded a high enrolment rate of about 98 % of eligible adults, with a voter turnout near 90 %. The revenue from these penalties is directed to the Commonwealth Consolidated Revenue Fund.