Timetable

• Issue of the writ: Twenty-four days before election day
• Close of electoral roll: One day after the issue of the writ
• Close of nominations: 12:00 noon, 7 days after the issue of the writ
• Election day: Fourth Saturday in August every 4 years

The writ is a legal document, issued by the Administrator of the Northern Territory, authorising the Electoral Commissioner to conduct an election for the Legislative Assembly. The writ sets out the key dates for the election and the commissioner is required to give public notice of receipt of the writ.

After the declaration of election results, the commissioner endorses the writ with the names of the successful candidates and returns the writ to the administrator.

The electoral roll is closed one day after the writ is issued. You must enrol at your current residential address so you can vote for the candidates in your electoral division.

Please note you can still update your address details after the close of roll; however, you will be 'captured' on the roll for your previous address.

Candidates standing in a Northern Territory Legislative Assembly election must lodge a completed nomination form after the close of the electoral roll and before the close of nominations at 12:00 noon, 7 days after the issue of the writ.

The public declaration of nominations and draw for positions on the ballot paper takes place soon after nominations close.