Advice for schools in an election year

As we head towards the 2026 State Election a good reminder for Principals in the 10th Feb DE School Update.

Advice for schools in an election year

The 2026 Victorian state election will be held on Saturday 28 November 2026.

In election years, many schools are used by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) as voting centres on election day. Members of Parliament (MPs) and other political candidates may also increase their engagement with schools.

This article outlines support and guidance to help you manage enquiries or requests over the coming months.

Schools as voting centres

If your school is selected by the VEC as a voting centre, it must be made available. We encourage schools to be as accommodating as possible to the VEC.

The VEC will contact schools identified for assessment as potential voting centres in Term 1, 2026, after Tuesday 10 February, to organise inspections. The VEC can answer questions from schools.

Members of Parliament and candidates

MPs and political candidates often visit or write to Victorian government schools to interact with their community. This activity can increase in election years.

If your school receives correspondence or requests for visits from MPs or candidates, refer to the Members of Parliament and Candidates Visiting and Corresponding with Schools policy. 

Policy, guidance and resources

Our Policy and Advisory Library includes all related policy information, guidance and resources under the relevant menu tabs:

• Elections – Schools as Voting Centres and Polling Places
• Members of Parliament and Candidates Visiting and Corresponding with Schools.