The AEC is a non-corporate Commonwealth entity under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 and an independent statutory authority, established under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Electoral Act).

It is funded to deliver one purpose and one outcome:

Maintain an impartial and independent electoral system for eligible voters through active electoral roll management, efficient delivery of polling services, and targeted education and public awareness programs.

The AEC has one program:

1.1 To deliver electoral events.

Pursuant to the Electoral Act, we do this by:

• conducting successful electoral events, including federal elections, by-elections and referendums, and industrial elections and ballots
• ensuring confidence in the Commonwealth Electoral Roll
• regulating political party registrations and financial disclosure
• supporting electoral redistributions
• undertaking public awareness activities.

We must also provide a range of electoral information and education programs both in Australia and in support of Australia’s national interests.

Our vision is:

We are a leader in refining and delivering best practice in election management.