VOTING closes this week for Victorian local council elections. Voters who have not yet voted are urged to do so before it’s too late.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel underscored the importance of voting.

“Local councils make all kinds of decisions for their communities, so it’s important that you exercise your right to vote,” Mr Bluemmel said.

“Your vote will help decide who will be representing you at the local level for the next 4 years.”

By the close of business on Friday, little more than a third of those registered had returned their ballot papers.

In Bass Coast, 29.52% of Island ward electors had voted, 40.63% in Bunurong and 33.81% in Western Port.

In South Gippsland, 26.49% of Coastal Promontory ward voters have responded, 34.38% in Strzelecki and 31.95% in Tarwin Valley.

However, it is expected that a large number voted over the weekend.

Completed ballot papers must be in the mail or delivered to the election office by 6pm on Friday, October 25. Ballots posted after this deadline cannot be counted, so voters should act now.

If you are unsure of anything or have left your run late, voters are welcome to attend the electoral offices in Leongatha (Carino’s building in Smith Street) or Wonthaggi (Old Post Office in Watt Street) before 6-m on this Friday to cast their vote.

Voters who haven’t received their ballot pack should go to vec.vic.gov.au/2024-council-elections to complete an online replacement ballot pack form before Wednesday, October 23. After this date voters will need to visit their election office to get a replacement on the spot.

Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled for this election at 4 pm Wednesday, August 7, regardless of age. Voters who don’t vote may be fined $99.