The Victorian Electoral Commission has applied to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a review of two ward results from the Council elections in Whittlesea and Knox.
The VEC detected higher rates of multiple ballot paper envelopes returned appearing to be from the same voters in Whittlesea City Council’s Lalor Ward, and Knox City Council’s Baird Ward.
The VEC said an examination of voter declarations highlighted a pattern of irregularities
VEC Commissioner Sven Bluemmel expressed disappointment that it appeared election interference had occurred, but assured voters that additional safeguarding measures had identified the irregularities.
In addition to the applications to VCAT, the matters have been referred to Victoria Police and the Local Government Inspectorate for further investigation.
Chief Municipal Inspector Michael Stefanovic AM said the matters concern potential serious offences that carry a substantial fine or imprisonment of up to five years.
Stevan Kozmevski was declared elected to Whittlesea City Council in Lalor Ward, and Peter Lockwood was declared elected to Knox City Council in Baird Ward.