2026 City of Darwin, Chan Ward By-election: Non-voters apparent failure to vote letters sent

Voting is compulsory in local government elections in the Northern Territory. The penalty for not voting in local government elections is $25.

The Northern Territory Electoral Commission has commenced sending approximately 5,500 apparent failure to vote letters to people who appear not to have voted in the 2026 City of Darwin Chan Ward By-election.

Recipients have 28 days to respond in one of three ways:

1. If they voted, provide details in writing about where they voted so this can be verified by the Northern Territory Electoral Commission.
2. If they did not vote but have a valid and sufficient reason, provide the reason in writing for consideration by the Northern Territory Electoral Commission.
3. Pay the $25 penalty.

People who receive a letter should respond within 28 days, even if they believe they voted or have a valid reason for not voting.

If no action is taken, the Northern Territory Electoral Commission may refer the matter to court, where the maximum penalty is $176.

For more information, visit https://ntec.nt.gov.au/voting/didnt-vote or contact the Northern Territory Electoral Commission on 1800 698 683.