Stricter voting laws put Pacific voters at risk ahead of November election
New electoral rules requiring enrolment 13 days before voting day threaten to reduce turnout in Pacific-majority electorates where young voters previously relied on same-day registration.
Electoral law changes that ended same-day voter enrolment could disproportionately affect Pacific communities, particularly young people who made up a large share of late-cast votes in the 2023 election. Pacific-majority electorates had significantly higher proportions of special votes in 2023, many cast by voters enrolling on election day. With around half the Pacific population under 25 and only a third of enrolled young Pacific voters saying they would definitely vote, Labour faces particular risk of losing votes in its traditional strongholds. Community mobilisation through churches and social media will be crucial to ensure Pacific voters enrol before the 13-day deadline.
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