Media release, 22 January 1999

Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters

1998 Federal Election and Matters Related Thereto
Media Releases

Media release, 22 January 1999

INQUIRY INTO THE CONDUCT OF THE 1998 FEDERAL ELECTION

On 10 December 1998 the Special Minister of State requested the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters inquire into and report on:

all aspects of the conduct of the 1998 federal election and matters related thereto.

The Chair of the Committee, Mr Gary Nairn MP, Member for Eden - Monaro, said that "the Committee's predecessors have reported on every federal election held since 1984, resulting in an ongoing review of all areas of electoral policy and administration."

"Federal election inquiries conducted by the Committee's predecessors have a reputable history of improving the accountability and efficiency of Australia's electoral system," Mr Nairn said.

"The new Committee intends to encourage as many interested members of the public as possible to have their say on Australia's electoral system, and on the conduct of the 1998 election."

Submissions will be called for in advertisements to be placed in all capital city newspapers on Saturday 23 January 1999, or members of the public can visit the Committee web site at www.aph.gov.au/house /committee/em/index.htm for further information. Public hearings based on submissions should commence following the closing date for the receipt of submissions on 12 March 1999.

Ends
22 January 1999
Further information: Gary Nairn MP (Chair) 02 - 6297 3952
Christopher Paterson (Secretary) 02 - 6277 4587