ACT Electoral Commissioner Phillip Green says the ACT Legislative Assembly election period officially starts this Friday 9 September.

“From this Friday candidates can be nominated for the election. This day also marks the commencement of the caretaker period for the ACT Government,” Phillip said.

“Polling day is Saturday 15 October 2016. The electoral roll for the election closes on Friday 16 September.

“Candidate nominations close at noon on Wednesday 21 September. The names of the candidates will be announced at noon on Thursday 22 September.

“Enrolment and voting is compulsory for people 18 or over and who are Australian citizens living in the ACT. To vote in this election you must be on the ACT electoral roll by 8 pm on 16 September.

“The most important step to take at this time is to make sure you’ve got your enrolment up to date so that you can have your voice heard on polling day. If you’ve changed address and haven’t updated your enrolment, or if you’ve recently turned 18 or 19 and haven’t yet enrolled, please do it now.

“Eligible citizens can enrol online and check if their enrolment is up to date at elections.act.gov.au. Enrolment forms are also available at any ACT Post Office or ACT electoral office.

“You can follow Elections ACT on Facebook and Twitter to get up-to-date news on the 15 October ACT election. facebook.com/ElectionsACT twitter.com/ElectionsACT”