Corporate Plan 2021-22 - Australian Electoral Commission
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Corporate Plan
2021–22Welcome to our corporate plan
Welcome to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) Corporate Plan 2021–22: the outline of the four key activities that enable
us to fulfil our purpose against a backdrop of an increasingly complex operating environment.
The planning process
provides an opportunity
the realities of law, process or context, can ooze into
the mainstream and can influence broader societal
The next federal election will be
to reflect on our agency’s
commitment to delivering
views. Anticipating those issues enables the AEC to
deal with matters before they influence the reputation
the largest and most complex
elections to the highest of Australia’s electoral system. in Australia’s history. The sheer
standard, and to ensure a
safe and trusted result for all The next federal election will be the largest and most size and scale of the event, with
Australians. complex in Australia’s history. The sheer size and scale
of the event, with the highest level of enrolment since the highest level of enrolment
The AEC’s values of Federation, brings with it the need to provide services
electoral integrity through agility, professionalism to meet the demand, and to recruit and train more staff since Federation, brings with
and quality underpin everything we do and assist
us to deliver federal elections that are: accessible to
to help deliver the franchise. The current COVID-19
pandemic continues to add a layer of complexity and
it the need to provide services
all eligible voters; professionally run; impartial; and
transparent. We also continue to evolve and innovate
we must remain alert, focused and ready to work with
our stakeholders to adjust. We also expect the next
to meet the demand, and to
in order to meet the demands of the changing external event will be the most scrutinised election to date, in recruit and train more staff to
environment. light of increased citizen engagement through social
media observed both here and internationally. help deliver the franchise.
Maintaining a positive reputation for the Australian
electoral system amongst citizens is critical in ensuring The AEC has measures in place to manage security
trust in election results, and electoral integrity is (both cyber and physical), provide accurate information
central to this. Additionally, proactive strategies to and ensure operational integrity so citizens have
build understanding about electoral processes, and faith in, and can trust, the election result. The
to manage stakeholder and community expectations AEC’s is steadfastly committed to maintaining high
about electoral services, is becoming even more critical. standards, and to applying the requirements of the
Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Electoral Act)
The challenge of electoral reputation management has without fear or favour.
intensified in the era of social media and disinformation:
particularly when some citizens and other Planning the future direction of the AEC and evolving
commentators can be astonishingly swift to reach, the services we provide to meet future requirements
and then broadcast, unshakably strong views about requires us to think beyond the immediate.
electoral events. These views, frequently untethered to
1 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22To that end, we have been considering what elections A further key element of the modernisation strategy
might look like in the year 2030 and, more importantly, is the AEC Command Centre, which will provide
what electors will expect from the voting experience a central, overarching view of all aspects of our
in the longer-term future. The thinking behind this
planning exercise is enabling us to respond to our
changing environment, and develop processes to
operations. The command centre will be up and
running at the next federal election and will help
enhance situational awareness of key operations, and
Compliance
identify appropriate risks, mitigations and controls. In
doing so, our key aim is to facilitate, not complicate, the
electoral process. Concrete steps towards this Voter
drive nationally consistent, centrally led service delivery.
While we always maintain an appropriate level of
statement
2030 vision are already underway. preparedness, we now move to the ‘mobilisation’ stage
of our electoral readiness framework. This means we I, as the accountable authority
We are on a pathway to becoming a leader in learning are conducting exercises and rehearsals to confirm that
and development and we have never been more changes and lessons from the previous election have of the Australian Electoral
heavily invested in this aspect of our organisation. The been implemented, and we’re ready to conduct the big Commission, present the
AEC identifies learning and development needs to event – whenever it may be. Corporate Plan 2021–22 which
develop programs that are focused on increasing the
skills and knowledge of the workforce and building our Tom Rogers covers the period 2021–25 as
overall capability. Electoral Commissioner required under paragraph 35(1)
We are taking great strides in our modernisation
(b) of the Public Governance,
journey. The AEC received significant funding in the Performance and Accountability
2020–21 federal budget to modernise the AEC’s Act 2013.
antiquated IT systems architecture. The first stage in
planning of this program of work is nearing completion. Tom Rogers
Ultimately, over many years, the program will enable Electoral Commissioner
us to simplify, secure and strengthen how we deliver
elections. Fundamentally, the modernisation process
will improve the core capabilities underpinning how we
deliver elections and assist the AEC to cope with the
expected and unexpected challenges of the future.
2 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Introduction
This is the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) Corporate Plan 2021–22. The document sets our
strategic direction for the next four years and outlines the elements in our plan that work together
to deliver our purpose.
Purpose We measure our performance against our key
activities, distinct or significant work that contributes
The AEC is a non-corporate Commonwealth entity to achieving our purpose.
under the Public Governance, Performance and Professionalism
Accountability Act 2013 and an independent statutory
authority, established under the Commonwealth Commission
Electoral Act 1918 (Electoral Act).
Section 6 of the Electoral Act establishes a three-
Our purpose is to maintain an impartial and person Commission which has exclusive powers,
independent electoral system for eligible voters through particularly in relation to electoral redistributions, Electoral
active electoral roll management, efficient delivery of political party registration, and funding and disclosure. integrity
polling services, and targeted education and public Current Commission members are:
Qu
ility
awareness programs.
alit
• Hon. Justice Susan Kenny AM, Chairperson
Ag
Pursuant to the Electoral Act, we do this by:
y
• Mr Tom Rogers, Electoral Commissioner
• conducting successful electoral events, including • Dr David Gruen, Australian Statistician and
federal elections, by-elections and referendums, non-judicial member.
and industrial elections and ballots
• ensuring confidence in the Commonwealth Electoral
AEC Values
Roll
Vision
• regulating political party registrations and financial
disclosure
• supporting electoral redistributions
We are a leader in refining
• undertaking public awareness activities. and delivering best practice
We must also provide a range of electoral information
in election management.
and education programs, both in Australia and in
support of Australia’s national interests.
3 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Key activities Our Portfolio Budget Statements (PBS)
Our performance is measured against our key Performance measures Key activities
activities:
1 2 3 4
1. maintain the integrity of electoral and regulatory Electoral roll management
process
• Percentage of eligible voters enrolled (enrolment rate)
2. prepare for and deliver electoral events • Redistributions determined when planned in accordance with timeframes
3. engage with our stakeholders through education identified in the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918
and public awareness activities Elections, by-elections and referendums
4. maintain a capable and agile organisation and • The writs for a federal election event are issued and returned in accordance with
continue to professionalise our workforce. legislation and timeframes
• For industrial elections and ballots, results are delivered with integrity and
withstand scrutiny
Operating context
Public awareness
Our operating context discusses the environment • Deliver public awareness and education products that target all Australian
we expect to operate in over the next four years. citizens aged 18 years and over
It outlines how we build our capability and manage
Party registration and financial disclosure
our risks, and how we cooperate with others to deliver
our purpose. • The AEC maintains an up-to-date public register of political parties
• Disclosure returns are published and regulated in accordance with timeframes in
the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918
Performance
Our corporate plan fits within the broader APS In the PBS, the AEC has one outcome: Program 1.1 — To deliver electoral events.
Performance Management Framework required
under the Public Governance, Performance and We report our performance through our key activities. The following table maps the performance
Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). Our performance measures in the PBS against the AEC’s key activities. Our performance against each measure is detailed
aligns with the performance criteria in the Portfolio on pages 11 to 18.
Budget Statements (PBS)*.
*See 2021–22 PBS published in May 2021
4 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Operating context
Our environment This challenge is perhaps greater than ever before, disclosure and compliance activities. These tasks—
especially given the global COVID-19 pandemic’s among others—are continual and support not just an
Our environment has never been more complex or drastic impact on our social landscape. Gatherings Australian federal election, but the broader system of
unpredictable. We are experiencing unprecedented of people now require considerable forethought and democracy, including other Australian elections.
operational challenges. planning.
At the heart of all the AEC’s responsibilities is an
The Australian electoral system is distinguished by In a trend that has been observed since the 2016 absolute focus on electoral integrity. Australians
important features such as compulsory voting, non- federal election, the Australian public increasingly are rightly proud of our electoral system, widely
fixed dates for elections and a wide range of voting seeks more flexible options at election time, particularly acknowledged as one of the best in the world.
methods. It allows Australians to freely exercise their regarding pre-poll voting. Within the current pandemic We remain agile to meet any challenges that may
civic rights and responsibilities. context, voters will expect greater voting accessibility adversely impact what we value so much – a triennial
and choice. Our preparations and planning must festival of democracy that is free and fair.
Much of the AEC’s daily work lies in preparing to respond within the context of the Electoral Act –
conduct the next federal election and the various the legislation that dictates how the AEC delivers Our role is to maintain this respected system and ensure
scenarios in which it can be held. Among the the electoral process. that it is held to the highest standards. We protect and
requirements is the recruiting and training required support democratic processes by building our capability,
for a workforce that expands from around 800 to Over and above the logistics of running an election, managing risk and collaborating with others. We are
over 90,000 during an election period. We purchase, the potential for malign actors to attempt to interfere in committed to delivering safe and secure electoral events
prepare and despatch a myriad of polling equipment our electoral procedures is a growing concern. We are and services to the Australian community.
and materials to hundreds of early voting centres and vigilant about physical and online security, as well as
thousands of polling places around Australia and information privacy. Worldwide, we observe increasing
internationally. attention, conflict and expectations surrounding
elections, and we try to educate and reassure voters Our environment has never
Arrangements are also made for Australians who live in where necessary. The threat of disinformation is always
remote locations, who are interstate or overseas, voters present and the AEC aims to take the lead in explaining been more complex or
to the public how we conduct elections.
with a disability, and those who temporarily reside in
Antarctica. It is this voting access – an entrenched
unpredictable. We are
In addition to continual election preparation activities, the
expectation of all Australians – that sets the Australian
system apart from so many others. AEC maintains the nearly 17 million enrolment records experiencing unprecedented
Delivering this voting process is a great privilege, but
for eligible Australians. We focus on ensuring accuracy
and currency of the Commonwealth Electoral Roll. We
operational challenges.
also an enormous challenge. A federal election is often also redistribute electorate boundaries, assess and
described as one of the largest and most complex complete party registration applications, run thousands
logistical peacetime events undertaken in Australia. of industrial ballots each year, and administer financial
5 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Our risk oversight and management
With COVID-19 continuing to impact all aspects of our operations, we must adapt and respond
to manage our risks effectively.
It is crucial that we meet Australian Government and An important component of the AEC’s risk management
community expectations to provide a safe environment framework is the risk management policy, which applies
for the public to enrol and vote, and to stay informed to all aspects of our operations. This policy defines:
and educated about our electoral system and services.
• the AEC’s approach to managing risk and articulates
Our risk management framework how this approach supports the agency’s objectives
and activities
The AEC’s commitment to maturing our risk
management framework and strengthening • the principles of the agency’s risk appetite and risk
organisational capability continues. We will: tolerance
• key accountabilities and responsibilities for
• legitimise risk-taking within our appetite managing and implementing the risk framework.
• strengthen strategic alignment and risk communication
Our risk appetite statement specifies that the AEC
• promote learning opportunities that reinforce positive accepts medium and low levels of risk and prefers not
risk behaviour to accept high and extreme risks. The following table
• share good practice and better integrate risks with lists our strategic risks, their impacts and selected
identified lessons mitigation strategies.
• bolster collaboration in managing shared risks
• embed enterprise risk management with a greater
focus on key controls to ensure AEC risks are being
well managed.
6 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Managing our strategic risks
Strategic risk Impact of risk eventuating Mitigating strategies
1. The Electoral Act and the AEC’s current operating model loses • Disengagement from external and internal stakeholders, employees The AEC regularly scans the environment to assess the risk
relevance to the modern-day service delivery experience – and and the temporary election workforce context and respond collaboratively to changes. This is supported
expectation of electors and stakeholders – especially in a post by a robust governance framework that oversees a range of
• More electors vote informally or not at all
COVID-19 pandemic environment. organisational health factors.
• Reduced ability to positively influence electoral policy and legislation
The AEC is becoming a learning organisation and is continuing
• Health hazards to AEC employees and the public to invest in developing people. We develop strategies to build the
critical operational and professional capabilities of APS staff and
the temporary election workforce.
2. The AEC is unable to uphold electoral integrity and transparency • Electors are disenfranchised
We use lessons management to inform and refine behavioural and
against a changing environment of domestic and global threats.
• Election delivery outcomes are adversely affected business process improvements for future electoral events.
• Increased external scrutiny The AEC will invest in a future operating model to sustain continual
improvement – both for voter experience and in the AEC workforce
• Privacy or confidentiality breach
– through future electoral cycles.
The AEC is implementing the Election Systems Modernisation
3. The AEC fails to build trusting relationships with electors, • More electors vote informally or not at all (Indigo) program. This initiative will govern the replacement and
political stakeholders, and the government. modernisation of core election IT systems. An agile technology
• Reduced ability to positively influence electoral policy and legislation
platform, Indigo will transform the AEC’s delivery of electoral
services and ensure ongoing integrity of the electoral system.
4. The AEC cannot source and maintain a capable and trained • Impact on election readiness and change effectiveness The AEC People Strategy will deliver a range of solutions for our
Australian Public Service and temporary workforce. multi-tiered workforce.
• Inability to meet community expectations for delivery of polling
services See page 8 for more information on our modernisation and people
strategies.
5. The AEC is not properly positioned for the future and is unable • Reduced ability to effectively and efficiently deliver core business and
to deliver its core business and services, as its systems and improve service offering
processes are not sustainable, relevant and modern.
7 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Our capability Learning and development is critical to professionalising This work has also enabled the AEC to think well
our workforce. The AEC is focusing on five key areas: beyond the next election and to expand IT to meet the
In an increasingly complex operating environment, we needs of all Australians.
continue to build our business processes and election • organisational capability
delivery model through our lessons management The Indigo program will be managed through a series
• learning culture
framework. of tranches, with the first delivering:
• accountabilities and responsibilities
Our people capability • new baseline IT platforms to ensure readiness for
• temporary election workforce
future planning
The AEC’s one workforce is unique and multi-tiered. • learning infrastructure.
Our talent includes APS employees engaged under • updated supply chain management processes
the Public Service Act 1999, statutory appointments, The AEC’s investment in this domain is building the • streamlined recruitment and management of the
contractors, our election surge workforce, and our very capability of our people to achieve excellence. As a AEC’s temporary election workforce
large temporary election workforce. result, our employees are equipped to adapt to the
• improved election contact centre operations to better
changing nature of the AEC’s work, as well as evolving
Collectively, our workforce maintains an impartial and facilitate voter self-service
community expectations. A highly skilled workforce
independent electoral system for eligible voters, and reinforces our reputation as a professional, responsive • agile business processes to drive productivity
delivers various other electoral, education, regulatory electoral management body.
• assurance of security in the AEC’s coordination of
and enabling services. Our one workforce – with its
federal elections.
unique skills – is critical to delivering quality services. Our ICT capability
IT systems All Australians should benefit from greater automation,
Our People Strategy supports AEC Key Activity 4. This
less manual handling, and swifter election results.
will be achieved through a range of initiatives. Among The AEC is undergoing a major information technology
these is the delivery of a strategic workforce plan, and communications transformation following
building organisational capability, and ensuring uptake the Australian Government’s announcement of
of early intervention for optimum wellbeing. We will also $96.4 million in funding in October 2020.
develop new talent initiatives to attract and nurture Our broader strategic direction
high performing talent and workforce diversity over our It is vitally important that the AEC operate robust and
employee life cycle. fit-for-purpose IT platforms. A modernised electoral is to modernise and use
The strategy focuses on four pillars: healthy
management system will greatly improve our capacity
to deal with security risks. Among these challenges,
available tools, data and skills to
workplaces, one workforce, our culture, and continuous
improvement. These pillars are supported by our
we must enhance our ability to detect, prevent and
respond to external interference in Australia’s elections.
better manage emerging risks
Learning and Professional Development Strategy
2020–2025, Diversity Inclusion Strategy 2019–2022,
and the changing operating
The Elections System Modernisation (Indigo) program
and Reconciliation Action Plan 2020–2021. is a shift in the AEC’s approach which will deliver a environment.
citizen-centric, agile technology platform. The seven-
year transformation journey will reposition how we
provide electoral services and ensure ongoing integrity
of the electoral system.
8 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22AEC Command Centre Our cooperation
Part of the AEC’s recent government funding will
be used to develop a new command centre that External cooperation is critical to ensure the AEC
will provide a secure, leading-edge, central point of succeeds in an evolving environment, delivering safe
command. This initiative will also allow the AEC to and effective elections into the future.
better monitor elections and give the overarching
visibility required during electoral events. Election events in Australia
Our broader strategic direction is to modernise We partner with a range of public and private entities
and use available tools, data and skills to better to deliver Australian electoral events. We also foster
manage emerging risks and the changing operating collaborations and help others.
environment. Establishing the command centre aligns
To meet the enormous task of conducting a federal
with this goal and will help deliver safe and secure
election, in all its scale and complexity, the AEC works
elections.
with many Australian Government agencies, state,
territory, local government jurisdictions and external
Disinformation and cyber security
suppliers. Partners helping us deliver increasingly
A breakdown in public trust endangers electoral intricate voting options include:
integrity. Everyone involved in the safe delivery of
elections must be committed to reducing the footprint • the Australian Taxation Office, which works with state
of disinformation. and territory agencies to share data and improve the
quality of the electoral roll
The risks of inaction are serious. Consequences could
be an erosion of public confidence in our governing • the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which provides
institutions, and the potential to disenfranchise population information that we use to calculate
electors. redistributions
• Services Australia, which helps with remote mobile
In an evolving electoral context, threats range from polling and call centre assistance
influencing voters before casting their vote, to interfering
with the mechanics of the voting process. The possible • the Australian Federal Police, which assesses
outcome could be a compromise in our ability to suspected breaches of criminal offences of the
effectively conduct an election with a trusted result. Electoral Act
• Australia Post, which ensures we can provide a
We ensure our people are equipped with the tools choice of postal and enrolment services
to share verified election details and to prevent
disinformation. • the Department of Health, and health departments
in different jurisdictions, which provide support and
We do this by being a highly credible source for election advice regarding the AEC’s COVID-safe measures
information and by educating all stakeholders. In ahead of electoral events.
particular, we are proactive in countering disinformation
across media platforms and other channels.
9 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22The Electoral Integrity Assurance Taskforce helps accessibility, inclusion and participation in the electoral in these bi-lateral endeavours include electoral
safeguard against interference that may impact on process by people with disability. management bodies, academic institutions and
the safe delivery of electoral events. Potential threats international development agencies.
include malicious cyber activity, physical attacks, The AEC delivers a range of electoral information and
foreign interference or disinformation. Security and education programs, including our National Electoral AEC activities include:
integrity of the electoral system are the AEC’s top Education Centre in Canberra. To complement our
priorities. We co-lead this taskforce, guided by other education program, we are working with the Museum • technical assistance
key agencies across government, including: of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House to
• strategic planning and advice
establish a dedicated public exhibition. This important
• Department of Finance interactive display will explain Australia’s federal • training courses
electoral system and the role of the AEC. • reviewing and updating policies and manuals
• Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
• Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional We work with the Electoral Council of Australia • knowledge exchange programs
Development and Communications and New Zealand to manage electoral rolls for • workshops
Commonwealth, state, territory and local government
• Attorney-General’s Department • designing, printing, and supplying electoral
elections. In the spirit of mutual cooperation, the
• Department of Home Affairs council considers contemporary electoral challenges materials.
• Australian Federal Police. with a view to improving equality for all eligible voters.
The Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand
The AEC also conducts industrial elections and ballots Electoral Administrators (PIANZEA) network is an
When required, the taskforce is also supported by the
under the provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 and the Australian government-funded electoral support
intelligence community.
Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009. program led by the AEC. The network has helped
deliver programs and resources for more than 20 years
The future of the electoral operating environment will
International engagement to strengthen the capability of Pacific Island electoral
be shaped, in part, by the AEC’s close relationship with
management bodies.
the Department of Finance. This partnership helps us The AEC is internationally recognised for its support of
contribute, when appropriate, to inform electoral policy emerging democracies and for building the technical The AEC also continues to play an integral role as
and legislative reform. capacity of partner electoral agencies. This reputation a founding partner of the Building Resources in
enables the government to include electoral support as Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE)
The AEC prioritises support for all Australians’ a key element of development assistance. partnership.
electoral participation. We seek to engage citizens
from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, We work closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs This professional development program is focused on
Indigenous Australians, people with disability, young and Trade to build international capacity and capability. electoral processes and is the only initiative of its type
people and those experiencing homelessness. The AEC delivers projects virtually and sends subject delivered to electoral officials around the world. As well
matter experts overseas to advise and help develop as the AEC, BRIDGE partners are the International
Working with state and territory electoral commissions, quality electoral services. Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance,
we collaborate with community organisations and
International Foundation of Electoral Systems, United
other service providers to share electoral information, By building trust, mutual respect and shared vision, Nations Development Programme and the United
educate about election processes and promote the AEC promotes peaceful and inclusive societies Nations Electoral Assistance Division.
recruitment opportunities. The AEC chairs the Trans- through sustainable development. Our partners
Tasman Disability Advisory Committee, which fosters
10 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Our performance
This year we continued to build our performance framework against our four agency activities,
and to provide more detailed performance measures and targets.
The AEC’s Performance Reporting Framework guides We must always be ready to deliver an electoral event.
our approach to developing, managing and reporting
performance information in line with the Public Each phase of the election readiness framework
Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 directs our workflow and is reflected in the
(PGPA Act). We measure our performance against four performance measures for the year. Our ‘lessons
key activities and the results we intend to achieve. learned’ approach directs a continual cycle of
improvement and learning across all aspects of AEC
The following pages detail our key activities and the operations. In 2020–21, we moved into the ‘implement
targets that measure our success. change’ phase. In 2021–22, we will begin ‘mobilisation’
for the next federal event.
Reporting cycles
We report our performance through the annual
performance statements in our annual reports.
The AEC operates on two reporting cycles:
• externally on a four-year cycle through the PGPA Act
• internally as part of the electoral cycle focusing on
the three phases of election readiness
– lessons
– implement change
– mobilisation.
11 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Key activity one
Maintain the integrity of the electoral and regulatory processes
An essential feature of Australian democracy is an This includes: This enables all eligible Australians to enrol, nominate
electoral system that operates with a high level of as candidates, vote, and have their votes counted
• maintaining a complete and accurate
integrity. The AEC maintains an impartial electoral accurately and securely. Citizens participate in a free,
Commonwealth Electoral Roll
system and processes for elections, referendums, fair and appropriately regulated electoral system.
plebiscites and by-elections in accordance with • driving voter turnout
the Commonwealth Electoral Act 2018 (the Electoral Act)
• supporting electoral redistributions
and the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984.
• registering political parties
As the Australian Government’s independent electoral
• regulating the funding and disclosure scheme
body, electoral integrity is central to the AEC’s values
for political entities and individuals
of agility, professionalism and quality. To maintain
electoral integrity, the AEC regulates important aspects • regulating the authorisation of electoral
of the electoral system. communications.
Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
1.1 Deliver the franchise – Maintain impartial and Percentage of eligible voters Electoral roll and Australian Roll and population data
an Australian citizen’s independent enrolment and enrolled (enrolment rate). Bureau of Statistics population calculated and reported annually
right to vote electoral services and processes ≥95% ≥95% ≥95% ≥95% data. at the end of each financial year
that enable voters to exercise and at close of rolls for a federal
their franchise. election or referendum.
Percentage of voters enrolled >90% voter turnout rate for elections AEC Tally Room. Number of people enrolled to
who turn out to vote at all federal for the Senate and House of vote who cast a vote by any
electoral events (turnout rate). Representatives at the 2021–22 federal voting method at a federal
election. electoral event.
Where applicable, turnout rate will be
reported for by-elections.
Percentage of votes cast formally >90% formality rate for Senate and AEC Tally Room. Percentage of formal votes cast
for the House of Representatives House of Representatives. when compared to all votes
and Senate at next federal cast at a federal electoral event
election or at a referendum or for Where applicable, formality rate will be (including referendum).
by-elections (if any held). reported for by-elections.
12 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
1.2 Maintain a high level Actively manage the electoral roll Percentage accuracy of the The Annual Roll Integrity Review AEC roll data and other agency
of confidence in the throughout the electoral cycle. Electoral Roll at the electoral (ARIR), which measures the data, calculated and publicly
electoral roll division-level and individual accuracy and integrity of electoral published quarterly and annually
Process enrolments to agreed
address-level. roll data. at the end of each financial year.
timeliness and standards and
quality assure a representative
≥95% ≥95% ≥95% ≥95%
sample of enrolments for
and and and and
accuracy.
≥90% ≥90% ≥90% ≥90%
Support the delivery of state,
territory and local electoral events
by delivering joint roll services
to state and territory electoral
commissions.
Support the timely conduct of Redistributions determined in All redistributions are determined Government Gazette and For each redistribution,
electoral redistributions, ensuring, accordance with the Electoral Act. in accordance with the planned newspaper notices, and the date publication of notices and
as near as practicable, that determination date and impacted of letters to electors lodged with letters to electors comply with
each state and territory gains electors are notified prior to the relevant Australia Post. requirements in the Electoral Act.
representation in the House of federal election.
Representatives in proportion to
their population.
1.3 Exercise our regulatory Process political party The AEC maintains an up-to-date Compliance with Part XI of the Electoral Act (Part XI), AEC No identified breaches of Part XI
functions registrations in accordance with public register of political parties. Electoral Act. funding and disclosure, Client of the Electoral Act for the year,
the Electoral Act. and Return Management system as at reporting date.
and the AEC website.
Regulate the funding and financial
disclosure scheme for political
parties, entities and individuals In relation to political parties Annual returns published on the first For annual returns and election Annual returns: measured
with disclosure obligations. and entities with disclosure working day in February. returns, the source is the annually.
obligations, the AEC publishes Transparency Register on the
Develop education and Election returns published 24 weeks after Election returns: measured for
the returns in accordance with AEC website.
awareness resources and polling day for each electoral event. each electoral event.
timeframes in the Electoral
products to assist political entities Act, and conducts compliance For compliance reviews, please
Compliance reviews completed annually Compliance reviews: measured
in Part XX of the Electoral Act refer to the AEC website.
reviews in line with the approved compared to the approved program. annually as at reporting date.
and those impacted by electoral program.
authorisations to understand
and comply with their regulatory
responsibilities.
13 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Key activity two
Prepare for and deliver electoral events
The AEC delivers federal electoral events, industrial service expectations. Electoral services and events The AEC uses a lessons management approach
elections, protected action ballots, and Torres Strait need to be accessible to all eligible Australians. during and following an electoral event to ensure
Regional Authority elections in accordance with the Australians are provided with successful electoral
relevant legislation and rules. The AEC prepares for and delivers electoral events events. Within the bounds of the Commonwealth
through the Election Readiness Framework. While the Electoral Act 2018 (the Electoral Act), we continue
The AEC provides the best possible electoral services AEC works to a three-year electoral cycle, the timing to enhance and modernise our model for delivering
and events to stakeholders and the public within a of electoral events is unknown. The AEC must strike electoral events and services.
complex environment and in response to increasing a careful balance between the likelihood of an event
community expectations. The AEC must deliver occurring with the cost and complexity associated with Under the Electoral Act, the AEC also supports
these services and events with the highest degree of maintaining a readiness posture. Election readiness is international electoral management bodies, in close
integrity, impartiality, and in accordance with legislation. also balanced against other agency priorities. cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs
We deliver to all stakeholders and diverse customer and Trade.
Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
2.1 The AEC maintains an Using the Election Readiness AEC-wide readiness achieved Agency wide readiness meets the AEC Election Readiness Undertaken as required at key
appropriate level of Framework, the AEC by the Directed Level of Electoral Directed Level of Electoral Readiness Framework. times prior to each electoral
election readiness comprehensively prepares for Readiness date (federal elections date (federal elections only). event.
the federal election and other only).
electoral events.
2.2 The public and Successfully deliver federal The election result – for each The writs for a federal election event are Electoral Act. For each electoral event:
stakeholders have electoral events in accordance event – is delivered in accordance issued and returned in accordance with
Electoral Commissioner’s advice • Writs returned to the Governor-
confidence the electoral with legislation. with the Electoral Act. legislative requirements and timeframes.
published on AEC website. General or State Governors or
process is well managed
The AEC will report on the number of the Speaker of the House of
in accordance with Outcomes of the Court of
Court of Disputed Returns matters which Representatives
legislation Disputed Returns.
challenge AEC conduct, and whether
• Electoral Commissioner’s
these challenges are dismissed or
advice published on the AEC
upheld in favour of the AEC.
website
• Court of Disputed Returns
advice.
14 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
2.3 Accessible and high Deliver enrolment services to Percentage of new enrolments Roll data from AEC enrolment Rates calculated monthly and
quality enrolment and electors in a timely and efficient and enrolment updates lodged systems and extracts. reported annually at the end
polling services manner. through the Online Enrolment of each financial year. Also
Service. calculated at close of rolls for full
Identify opportunities to
federal elections.
modernise delivery of enrolment ≥80% ≥80% ≥80% ≥80%
services and increase digital
offerings to our stakeholders.
Deliver polling services to the Voting locations (including early 100% of polling locations are published. AEC Election Management Publication on the AEC website
public (including priority groups – voting centres and polling places) System data. for each electoral event.
see below in Key Activity 3) within published on the AEC website
AEC website.
the parameters and timeframes before polling commences.
set in the Electoral Act and the
AEC’s Event Service Plan. After election night, count Preliminary election results available on AEC Election Management Publication on the AEC website
information is progressively election night and progressive count System data. for each electoral event.
Mature and embed the AEC’s updated on the AEC website. information updated on the AEC website.
lessons management approach
and capability.
Undertake an AEC voter survey Undertake a lessons Lessons from the previous electoral AEC Lessons Management Agency-wide qualitative analysis
following each federal election management approach to event implemented at the next electoral Framework. undertaken for each federal
to inform future planning and delivering electoral events. event. election.
delivery of electoral events.
AEC Election Readiness
Framework.
2.4 Industrial elections and The AEC meets legislative Election and ballot results are The AEC will report on the outcomes Federal Court outcomes. Federal Court outcomes for the
ballots are designed for requirements to conduct delivered with integrity and and number of events in which the AEC’s year, as at reporting date.
the future and delivered electoral events for organisations withstand scrutiny. conduct is challenged before a court.
with integrity registered with the Fair Work
Commission; and protected
action ballots when assigned
as the Ballot Agency by the Fair
Work Commission.
Engage with stakeholders to
modernise industrial election
processes and systems, mature
planning and assurance, and
detail lessons learned.
15 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Key activity three
Engage with our stakeholders through education and public awareness activities
To maintain awareness of electoral matters, the AEC Our education and public awareness activities target The AEC also continues to deliver education programs
engages with the public and a range of different all eligible voters and consider Australia’s diverse for tens of thousands of school children through
communities and stakeholders throughout the population. Targeted information, services, tools our National Election Education Centre (NEEC) in
electoral cycle. At a federal election, the AEC conducts and strategic partnerships are developed for priority Canberra.
a national advertising campaign across a range of groups, including those who may experience some
communication channels and in many Indigenous and barriers to electoral participation.
major community languages to maximise successful
election participation.
Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
3.1 Enable Australians to Provide timely and accurate Deliver public awareness and The AEC’s public awareness campaign Campaign evaluation report. Specific communication activities
participate in electoral electoral information and public education products that target all is delivered in accordance with key delivered for mainstream and
events and understand awareness products and Australian citizens aged 18 years objectives outlined in the campaign identified special audience
electoral matters campaigns to a range of target and over. strategy and meets identified groups measured for each federal
audiences to support enrolment benchmarks for electoral events. election.
and participation in electoral
events.
Work with key stakeholders such Percentage of 18 to 24 year Roll data from AEC enrolment Rates calculated monthly
as state and territory electoral old Australians enrolled (youth systems. and published quarterly. Also
commissions, further enhance enrolment rate). ≥85% ≥87% ≥87% ≥87% measured and reported for each
ABS population data.
partnership arrangements federal election.
and extend our digital reach to
provide awareness and education
products to the priority groups. Deliver electoral participation Assessment of activities delivered in Assessment against Targeted Assessment of activities for the
The priority groups include: activities to support AEC priority accordance with the AEC Targeted Engagement Framework year as at each reporting date.
youth (18–24 years old); groups. Engagement Framework 2020-2023 2020–23.
Indigenous Australians; people and the AEC Indigenous Electoral
with disability; people from Participation Program National Action
culturally and linguistically Plan 2021–2022.
diverse backgrounds; people
experiencing homelessness; and
people who are incarcerated.
16 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
3.2 Enhance understanding Deliver a high quality and Annual visitors to the NEEC. New baseline determined in 2022–23*. AEC visitor data captured via the Visitor attendance reported
of Australia’s electoral accessible electoral education NEEC online booking system. annually.
system experience to school children
through the NEEC.
Provide a program of Visitor satisfaction rates at the AEC NEEC visitor data. Visitor satisfaction surveys
targeted professional learning NEEC. ≥ 90% ≥ 90% ≥ 90% ≥ 90% captured for each education
opportunities and resources program reported annually.
to teachers that support their
teaching of the Australian Maintain the number of unique AEC for Schools website. AEC website analytics of unique
electoral system consistent with views of AEC for Schools ≥ 200,000 ≥ 200,000 ≥ 200,000 ≥ 200,000 visits to AEC for Schools website
the Australian Curriculum. website. reported annually.
Teacher professional learning 350 teacher professional learning AEC Learning Management Professional learning participation
participant numbers. participants (with an intention to review System data and attendance rates reported annually.
in 2022–23)*. at in-person sessions.
* COVID-19 affected visits and face-to-face education programs through 2020. The NEEC will be refurbished in 2021–2022, affecting visits. A new baseline visitor target will be established in 2022–23.
17 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Key activity four
Maintain a capable and agile organisation and continue to professionalise our workforce
Building and maintaining a capable and agile our agility and capability. We do this by refining our Our people and learning and development strategies
organisation and professional workforce is critical to organisational structure and focusing on key aspects are designed to ensure the AEC can attract, develop
delivering electoral events. To ensure we can respond of governance and assurance. We are also investing in and retain a talented, agile and professional workforce.
to changing legislation, policy, community expectations and modernising our enrolment and election systems This includes both our regular APS and temporary
and our environment, we must continue to develop and processes. election workforce, which surges to more than 90,000
employees during a federal election.
Intended results AEC contributions Performance measures Targets Source Method and frequency
2021–22 2022–23 2023–24 2024–25
4.1 Develop and maintain Continue to develop our workforce Percentage of identified APS AEC Learning Management Training completion data
a professional, talented by implementing the AEC People employees undertaking specific ≥ 95% ≥ 95% ≥ 95% ≥ 95% System. measured annually.
and agile workforce Strategy and Learning and training relevant to their role.
Development Strategy.
Percentage of TEW employees AEC Learning Management Training completion data
Further expand our capability completing election training System. measured for each federal
≥ 95% ≥ 95% ≥ 95% ≥ 95%
to support and train the AEC’s relevant to their role. electoral event.
temporary election workforce.
4.2 Invest in organisational Continue to mature and Increase agency-level Increase or maintain maturity against Comcover Risk Culture survey, Survey benchmarking using
capability and governance streamline our agency’s governance maturity in the areas identified Commonwealth surveys or AEC Information Management Commonwealth frameworks and
organisational structure and of risk management, protective plans. Strategy and National Archives agency maturity assessments
governance arrangements. security, privacy and information of Australia’s Check-up PLUS for protective security and
management. survey and reports, Protective information management
Improve our maturity across
Security Policy Framework, AEC measured annually.
management of finance and
Privacy Management Plan.
workforce, risk, security Comcover Risk Culture survey is
(under Protective Security measured biennially.
Policy Framework), information
Qualitative assessment on
management and privacy.
privacy management, performed
annually as at reporting date.
4.3 Implement systems Continue investment in the AEC’s Progress the modernisation of Meet the key program milestones Program documentation Governance reporting
and processes that are modernisation agenda. the AEC’s core election and roll associated with the procurement, and reporting. mechanisms (including internal
sustainable, relevant and management systems. delivery, execution and de- and external assurance) as
modern to support election commissioning of these systems. guided by program structure and
planning and delivery documentation; as at reporting
date.
18 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22Regulator performance
The AEC regulates the Commonwealth funding and The principles of regulator best practice are:
disclosure scheme detailed under Part XX of the
Electoral Act. This requires candidates, Senate groups, • continuous improvement and building trust –
political parties, political campaigners, associated regulators adopt a whole-of-system perspective,
entities, third parties and donors to lodge election or continuously improving their performance, capability
annual financial disclosure returns with the AEC. and culture to build trust and confidence in
Australia’s regulatory settings
The AEC administers the registration of political parties
• risk-based and data-driven – regulators manage
under Part XI of the Electoral Act and maintains a
risks proportionately and maintain essential
Register of Political Parties. This lists those parties
safeguards while minimising regulatory burden, and
which are eligible to have the party affiliation of their
leveraging data and digital technology to support
endorsed candidates printed on ballot papers at a
those they regulate to comply and grow
federal election.
• collaboration and engagement – regulators are
The AEC administers the authorisation of electoral transparent and responsive communicators,
communications in accordance with Part XXA of the implementing regulations in a modern and
Electoral Act. collaborative way.
In line with the Australian Government’s commitment
to reducing the cost of unnecessary and inefficient
regulation imposed on individuals, business and
community organisations, we apply the principles of
regulator best practice in assessing our regulatory
performance.
19 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22The following table outlines our performance against our measures of success.
What we do to meet the best practice principles Measures Key activity reference
We understand the operating environment and • The AEC maintains an up-to-date public register of political parties. 1, 2, 3 and 4.
circumstances of stakeholders, and take actions to minimise
• We regulate the funding and disclosure scheme, ensuring that disclosure returns
the potential for unintended negative impacts on them.
are published and regulated in accordance with timeframes.
We provide guidance and information that is up to date,
• We undertake regular compliance reviews that examine a sample of disclosure
clear, accessible and concise, and that is delivered through
returns, and use a risk-based approach to compliance. The outcomes of
appropriate channels to the target audience.
compliance activity are published on the AEC’s website.
We apply a risk-based, proportionate approach to
• We administer the funding and disclosure scheme, political party registrations
compliance obligations, engagement and regulatory
and electoral authorisations. We provide guidance and information to ensure
enforcement actions.
stakeholders are aware of the need to comply with electoral legislation as well as
We ensure information requests to the public and the ‘how-to’.
stakeholders are tailored and only made when necessary
• We apply a risk-based proportionate response in addressing multiple voting
to secure regulatory objectives, and only then in a way that
and non-voter prosecutions, and in administering electoral communications
minimises impact.
requirements.
• We continue to improve our risk management maturity to build organisational
capability. We are also maturing and embedding our lessons management
approach and capability.
• We manage feedback and complaints in line with the AEC complaints
management policy, and seek improvements in administration when relevant.
20 Australian Electoral Commission Corporate Plan 2021–22You can also read
