The Victorian Electoral Commission has moved to limit the number of campaigners allowed at the Watergardens Town Centre voting centre due to “repeated issues by those campaigning outside”
The voting centre is in the Sydenham electorate. Labor MP Natalie Hutchins currently holds the seat, which is being contested by seven other candidates from the Liberals, Greens, Animal Justice Party, Victorian Socialists, Family First, Democratic Labour Party and Freedom Party.
In a statement, acting electoral commissioner Dana Fleming said: Due to repeated issues by those campaigning outside, we will limit the number of campaigners permitted for each candidate or party listed on the ballot paper for the district.
“The need to take this action is disappointing, but unfortunately necessary. The safety of voters and our election staff is our priority.
“The Electoral Act includes several offences for unacceptable behaviour in, and around, voting centres. Election managers and election officials can also request police assistance to remove a person who is disrupting the election process or obstructing access for voters.
“The decision to limit the number of campaigners at the Watergardens early voting centre has been shared with all parties and candidates listed on the Sydenham ballot paper; it is also posted on the window of the early voting centre.”
