Voters enrolled in Strathbogie Shire Council's Hughes Creek Ward will start to receive their ballot packs this week, as voting in the by-election begins.

Ballot packs are being mailed to enrolled voters from Tuesday, 1 September.

Voting is compulsory for all residents under 70 who were on the voters roll for Hughes Creek Ward on Friday, 24 July. This includes homeowners and tenants. Enrolled residents who fail to vote may be fined.

All completed ballot papers must reach the Returning Officer by 6.00pm on Friday, 18 September or they will not be counted.

"Ballot papers can be completed and returned as soon as they arrive," said Returning Officer Dianne McMillan.

"Voters should carefully read and follow the instructions in the ballot pack to ensure they fill out their ballot paper correctly."

Voters who haven't received their ballot pack by Wednesday, 9 September should contact the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) on 131 832 for a replacement.

There are two candidates contesting the by-election. The councillor elected at the by-election will represent Hughes Creek Ward until the next council elections in November 2012.

For further information, voters can telephone the VEC on 13 18 32 or visit www.vec.vic.gov.au.

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Media enquiries:
Michael Newhouse
Communication Officer
Victorian Electoral Commission
Phone: 9299 0739
Email: michael.newhouse@vec.vic.gov.au