During the 2025 federal election, the Australian Electoral Commission set up a mobile polling place at the MVAC hall in Robinvale.
This gave local Aboriginal community members a familiar and supportive place to vote.
After the election, MVAC spoke with staff and community members about what worked, what was difficult and how future elections could be more accessible and culturally safe.
#1 Voting should be accessible
Bringing the polling place closer to community
Voting can feel confusing or difficult to navigate. For some community members, limited transport, unfamiliar polling places and uncertainty about the process can make taking part even harder.
Bringing mobile polling to the MVAC hall helped remove some of these barriers. Community members could vote in a familiar, supportive and culturally safe place, surrounded by people they knew.
#2 Different people face different barriers
For Elders, participation can require more support
Elders may face barriers such as limited transport or difficulty understanding modern voting systems.
For some, ballot papers and voting instructions can feel unfamiliar or complicated. Without clear and accessible information, it can be harder to feel confident about the process and make informed choices.
Reaching a polling place is only one part of being able to participate ...
#3 A welcoming environment matters
More than a place to vote
MVAC helped create a relaxed and supportive environment around the mobile polling station. Tea, coffee and food gave people time to sit, talk and feel comfortable. Staff were there to help, and transport support made it easier for Elders to get home safely.
These simple touches made voting feel less formal, less rushed and more familiar ...
#4 Casting a vote is not always simple
Participation should be informed, not just compulsory
Some people may vote mainly to avoid a fine, without fully understanding the process or their choices.
Ballot papers and numbering instructions can be confusing, and written information may not be enough. Clear, respectful guidance from polling staff can help people feel more confident without influencing who they vote for.
#5 Familiar faces build confidence
More local Aboriginal staff at polling places
Employing more local Aboriginal people at polling places was one of the clearest opportunities identified.
Familiar faces can make it easier to enter the space, ask questions and feel comfortable seeking help. Local staff also bring community knowledge that helps build trust and create a more culturally safe experience.
#6 Recognition is part of respect
Systems should recognise the names people use
Community members highlighted the importance of recognising clan, skin and traditional names.
When systems cannot include culturally meaningful names, people may feel unseen or excluded. More inclusive systems would help create a more respectful electoral experience.
#7 Participation matters
Having a say
Voting gives people a voice in who represents them and the decisions that affect their community.
Meaningful participation also depends on clear information, welcoming places and respectful support.
The experience at MVAC showed the value of bringing voting closer to community.
