How can you run for election to be a member of parliament?

Hi Ashtyn, thanks for your question.

If you want to stand for election for the Australian Parliament you will need to follow the rules set out in the Australian Constitution and the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918. You would also need to register with the Australian Electoral Commission.

To run for election to be a member of parliament you must be:

• aged 18 and older
• an Australian citizen.

You cannot be a member of parliament if you are:

• found guilty of a serious crime
• bankrupt
• in a job where you already receive money from the Parliament
• a citizen of any other country.