Electoral Commission (New Zealand)

Story

The Electoral Commission is an independent crown entity set up by the New Zealand Parliament. It is responsible for the administration of parliamentary elections and referenda, promoting compliance with electoral laws, servicing the work of the Representation Commission, and the provision of advice, reports and public education on electoral matters. The Commission also assists electoral agencies of other countries on a reciprocal basis with their electoral events.Objective of the Electoral CommissionThe Electoral Act defines the objective of the Electoral Commission as“to administer the electoral system impartially, efficiently, effectively, and in a way that – Facilitates participation in parliamentary democracy; and Promotes understanding of the electoral system; and Maintains confidence in the administration of the electoral system.”Functions of the Electoral CommissionThe functions of the Electoral Commission are defined by law and in summary comprise- Preparation and conduct of General Elections, by-elections, and referendaAllocating government monies to registered political parties for radio and television broadcastingPromoting public awareness of electoral matters through education and information programmesGiving advice to the Minister and the House of Representatives on electoral matters referred to the CommissionMaking available information to assist political parties, candidates, and third parties to meet their statutory obligations in respect of electoral matters administered by the CommissionCompiling and maintaining electoral rolls (from 1 July 2012).IndependenceThe Electoral Commission is an independent Crown entity. The responsible Minister may not direct the Commission to give effect to, or have regard to, government policy.