UPDATE: A disturbing pattern of bullying and intimidation at polling booths has been unveiled during a parliamentary inquiry into the 2025 federal election. Labor MP Carol Berry, a former disability advocate, has called out the hostile treatment of vulnerable Australians, particularly the elderly, by party volunteers.
During a hearing in Dapto on Wednesday, Berry recounted shocking incidents, including one where an elderly woman was targeted by a volunteer. “The polling booths were crowded, overbearing, and overwhelming,” Berry stated, emphasizing that those with sensory issues visibly recoiled as they approached to vote.
Berry described a specific incident where an opposition volunteer snatched leaflets from the elderly woman’s hands, replacing them with a flyer for their party. “This was unacceptable,” she asserted. “The elderly woman looked confused and overwhelmed.”
The MP, who marked her 50th birthday on the same day, expressed her dismay at the behavior she witnessed, stating, “I’d never experienced anything like this before on polling booths. I found this particularly inappropriate. I was jeered and belittled.”
Reports have surfaced regarding volunteers from the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church exhibiting anti-social behavior. Allegations arose concerning sect members distributing how-to-vote cards for the Liberal Party during the election. Both the church and the Liberals have denied any formal collaboration. A spokesperson for the Brethren asserted that while members are free to volunteer, they do not represent the church in these activities.
Berry has urged the Australian Electoral Commission to implement community standards guidance that outlines expected conduct for volunteers and candidates. She emphasized the necessity for enforcement measures that would allow for the immediate removal of misbehaving individuals from polling booths.
“The electoral process should be a safe space for all Australians,” Berry declared. “They should participate without fear of judgment or discrimination due to their faith or any other reason.”
As the inquiry continues, Berry’s revelations highlight the urgent need for reform in polling booth conduct to protect vulnerable voters. The next steps remain crucial as authorities are expected to respond to these allegations and consider new regulations to ensure a respectful and secure voting environment ahead of the election.
