AS we rapidly approach the first Federal Election since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, some might be wondering how this election day will differ from previous years.

Firstly, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) will have COVID-19 precautions in place at polling places to ensure the safety of both AEC staff and voters.

An AEC spokesperson said dedicated hygiene officers would be onsite to regularly sanitise surfaces and pencils at polling places.

“Social distancing will be in force with equipment spaced out, markers and other signage providing guidance, and queue controlling staff offering support,” they said.

“AEC staff will be wearing masks and other personal protective equipment as required.

“Voters do not need to be vaccinated to attend a voting centre, and campaign activities (including handing out how-to-vote cards) can occur, in line with local health directions and electoral laws.”

The spokesperson also said that social distancing, venue capacity limits, and sanitising requirements would undoubtedly slow the voting process, and that queues were inevitable.

Staff have endeavoured to work to minimise wait times much as possible and to keep lines moving.

Recent elections have also seen an increase in the number of electors avoiding the election day line-up, and instead choosing to vote early.

According to the AEC, in 2019 31.59 per cent of voter turnout was at early voting centres, up from 22 per cent in 2016.

The AEC also expects an increase in postal voting and early voting at this election.

For those looking to cast their vote before May 21, the Hamilton Senior Citizens Room at 100 Lonsdale Street is currently the only early voting centre in town.

However, additional centres may be added to the list before early voting commences on Monday, May 9.