Registered political party deadline now 1 June as new election laws come into effect
Wednesday 20 May 2026
For immediate release
An earlier deadline for party registration and updates to election material authorisation requirements are among several changes to the Electoral Amendment Act 2026 that come into effect on Monday 25 May.
Political parties intending to apply for registration in time for this year's state election must apply by Monday 1 June and should submit their application as soon as possible. This deadline has been brought forward by 60 days and will also apply to already registered political parties submitting applications to change their party name or logos.
The new laws also include changes to the party name and logos that the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) must refuse. This includes that the VEC cannot register:
- a name that has been used by a registered party in the past 10 years
- a name that resembles a name of a party in use in the past 10 years, or
- a name or logo that suggests a connection or relationship between the party and another party that has been registered in the past 10 years.
The new laws alter some of the timelines and processes for the upcoming 2026 state election, including close of roll, candidate dis-endorsement and close of nominations.
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said the VEC was focused on delivering the changes effectively ahead of the 2026 state election.
'It's important for everyone to understand how these new laws apply to you, especially if you are planning to update or apply for political party registration or stand as a candidate in the 2026 state election,' Mr Bluemmel said.
'We will continue working with stakeholders to support understanding, compliance and meaningful participation in our democracy.'
The new laws will also limit the kinds of election materials that need an authorisation statement - a line that states the name and address of the person responsible for the materials. This helps voters understand where the material came from.
All printed election material or paid advertisements containing election matter must be authorised. Any material produced by or on behalf of registered political parties, candidates and elected members needs an authorisation statement, even if the materials are not paid or printed.
Other changes now in effect include:
- an earlier close of roll, at 8 pm on the day a writ is issued
- a fixed 10-day period in which early voting centres can operate before election day
- a party dis-endorsement process for registered political parties to formally withdraw the nomination of their candidates before the close of nominations.
More information will be available on the VEC website and in resources for candidates and political parties, including handbooks.
For more information on political party registration visit vec.vic.gov.au/register-a-party.