The 2020 Elections for local councils in Queensland will be on Saturday, the 28th of March. Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, however, the Electoral Commission Queensland (ECQ) launched an early voting arrangement to protect the most vulnerable sectors against COVID-19.
As voting during the local government 2020 elections is compulsory, the early voting will allow those above 60 years old and the immunocompromised to avoid a crowded precinct where they may risk catching the virus. Thus, some polling stations will open before the 28th to assist early voters.
The voting centre in Keperra is at 8 Dallas Parade and will open during these schedules:
| Monday, 23 March | 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
| Tuesday, 24 March | 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
| Wednesday, 25 March | 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. |
| Thursday, 26 March | 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. |
| Friday, 27 March | 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
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The ECQ will have staff disinfecting the polling stations regularly as part of its COVID-19 protection measures for the 2020 elections. Social distancing of at least 1.5 metres will also be strictly observed in the queues.
The voters are encouraged to bring their own pen or pencils and use hand sanitisers. For those in the vulnerable sector, the ECQ advises going in the morning as the number of people is usually higher during lunch time until the end of the day.
Only 100 people may be present at the polling venue with the ECQ setting up additional control measures among those who need to wait. Please have your Voter Information Card with you.
The same coronavirus prevention protocols will be observed during the actual voting day on the 28th. But if you suspect that you’ve been exposed to the virus, it’s best to stay home and self-quarantine. According to the ECQ, voters who are unwell can do telephone voting.
Take note of these numbers to call for your enquiries:
- 1300 912 782 – to check eligibility for telephone voting
- 1300 881 665 – if you cannot vote for medical reasons
Follow the ECQ’s media releases for daily updates about the election process.