Polling booths across the state run out of ballot papers

Several polling booths across the state ran out of ballot papers today.

The VEC says “no voters were turned away or missed out on voting”, but some callers claim they were unable to cast their vote.

Jacinta called Neil Mitchell to say she tried to vote at three polling locations — Porepunkah, Bright and Wandiligong — and none had any ballot papers.

“When I was there, there were 10 people turned away. Our names were recorded that we attempted to vote but there were no ballot papers,” she said.

Others have reported similar problems in Carnegie, Geelong, Gippsland South, North Ringwood and Croydon.

Press PLAY below to hear Jacinta telling Neil Mitchell about the concerning stuff up

Press PLAY below to hear what the ballot paper shortage could mean

In a statement, the VEC said it’s aware of the issue at a “limited number” of voting centres.

“Voters were provided with blank ballots, with candidates’ names handwritten on the ballot. This is an acceptable approach in this situation,” the statement read.

No voters were turned away or missed out on voting due to this.
In the interim voters were provided with blank ballots, with candidates’ names handwritten on the ballot. This is an acceptable approach in this situation. 2/2

— VEC (@electionsvic) November 26, 2022

Image: Graham Denholm/Getty Images