The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) has referred matters concerning postal voting in the recent Kingston Melaleuca Ward by-election to Victoria’s Local Government Inspectorate (VCAT) after irregularities were identified during routine election integrity checks.
The VEC today also declared the result of the Kingston Melaleuca Ward by-election, which was won by Nikki Kaur.
In a statement, City of Kingston Council said Cr Kaur, who was immediately sworn in following the by-election result declaration, will serve as a Councillor until any further advice is provided by VCAT and the VEC.
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said the VEC takes any allegation of interference with a person’s vote seriously.
“The integrity of Victoria’s elections is fundamental to public confidence in our democracy,” Mr Bluemmel said.
“Victorians have the right to cast their vote freely. Any attempts to undermine that right must be taken seriously and appropriately investigated.”
The Commissioner said the VEC’s focus is on ensuring the integrity and validity of the election. Any question of criminality is a matter for the relevant authorities, he said.
“We will fully cooperate with and support any investigation undertaken by the appropriate agencies,” Mr Bluemmel said.
“Anyone with information about suspected interference in the Melaleuca Ward by-election should report it to the Local Government Inspectorate.”
Given the allegations of election interference, the VEC will also apply for an inquiry, the Commissioner confirmed.
Kingston Mayor, Georgina Oxley said Council was deeply committed to upholding local democracy and will work closely with the VEC to ensure all correct procedures are followed.
She said Council welcomed the Commission’s referral to the Local Government Inspectorate and any necessary agencies.
Mayor Oxley also congratulated Cr Kaur on her election.
“It is my pleasure to congratulate Nikki on her election and welcome her to Council,” she said.
“I look forward to working alongside Cr Kaur and my fellow councillors as we continue delivering the projects, services and advocacy that matter most to our community.”
Cr Kaur said she was honoured to have been elected.
“I’m looking forward to getting out into the community, meeting residents and businesses, listening to what’s important to people and working alongside my fellow councillors to make a positive difference for Melaleuca Ward and the wider Kingston community,” she said.
Council CEO, Peter Bean thanked the 13 by-election candidates who put themselves forward to serve their local community.
“Standing for election takes time, commitment and courage, and I thank every candidate for their willingness to contribute to their community and to the democratic process,” Mr Bean said.
“I congratulate Cr Kaur and wish her all the very best as she begins her term as a local Councillor, serving and leading the Kingston community.”
