Independent candidates warn address-on-ballot rule endangers families in Tasmanian elections
Independent hopefuls in Tasmania say the law that forces a residential address on campaign material puts them and their families at risk.
Under the 1993 Local Government Act, Tasmanian election materials must display the creator's real name and a physical address, excluding PO boxes and email contacts. Independent candidates, lacking a party headquarters, are forced to use personal addresses, prompting safety worries. Firearms lobbyist Phillip Bigg, running for Derwent Valley Council, fears thieves will target his home, and he cites recent death threats and a ram-raid on his property.
Councilor Emma Goyne, a domestic-violence survivor seeking re-election in Clarence City, says publishing a family address endangers women and children. Mick Tucker of the Local Government Association of Tasmania and MLC Meg Webb, chair of the electoral matters committee, recognize the issue but say amending the law before the October elections is unlikely. Bigg plans to meet Minister Kerry Vincent to push for a quick amendment and has warned he may seek legal action if the rule remains unchanged.
Why it matters
The rule could expose candidates and their families to harassment or crime during a public election.
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