The upcoming Western Australian state election is just days away, scheduled for Saturday, March 8. Currently, the Labor Party, led by Premier Roger Cook, enjoys a significant parliamentary majority, making it a challenging environment for the Liberals and the Nationals to regain control of the government.
Labor has been victorious in the previous two elections, and they aim for a third consecutive term under Cook, who is leading the party in his first election since taking over from Mark McGowan in 2023. On the other side, Libby Mettam, who recently replaced David Honey as the Liberal leader in January 2023, is also stepping into her inaugural election as the party leader. The Nationals, led by Shane Love, hold an equal number of lower-house seats as the Liberals, each with three, while Labor secured 53 seats in the last election. Notably, the Liberal Party has formed an alliance with the Nationals since 2021 instead of a formal coalition.
Voting is mandatory for all Western Australians aged 18 and over who are Australian citizens and have lived at their current address for a minimum of one month. For those planning to vote on March 8, polling stations will be open from 8 am to 6 pm (AWST). However, alternative voting options are available for individuals unable to attend in person due to various reasons.
Early voting commenced on February 24 and will close at 6 pm on March 7, although it will not be available on the Labour Day public holiday on March 3. Postal voting requires voters to apply to receive a ballot paper by mail and must be returned by 6 pm on election day. Votes mailed must be received by the WA Electoral Commission by 9 am on March 13.
For voters overseas or interstate, specific provisions are in place to ensure participation. Additionally, those who may face challenges attending polling places due to disabilities can access information regarding accessible venues on the WA Electoral Commission’s website. A low-sensory voting option will be available at The Hepburn Centre in Marangaroo for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Furthermore, phone-assisted and mobile voting services will be provided to those unable to physically attend due to various impairments.
This election signifies a pivotal moment for Western Australia, as voters prepare to make their voices heard amidst changing leadership within the major parties.