By-elections

If a Lower House MP resigns or cannot complete their term, we hold a by-election to elect a new MP for that District.

Only the voters in that District are required to vote.

In a by-election, people can vote:

• at a voting centre on election day
• at an early voting centre
  or
• apply for a postal vote.

Registered general postal voters will be mailed a ballot pack and they do not need to apply for a postal vote.

Appointments

If an Upper House MP resigns or cannot complete their term, they are replaced by their party.

The process is known as an appointment. The party nominates a new person to fill the position. That person is then appointed by a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament.

Rules differ if the vacating MP was not a member of a party.