How to vote early in WA in this year’s Federal election according to the Australian Electoral Commission

Aussies can now decide who they want leading the country, with early voting officially open.

More than 500 stations have been set up across Australia to ensure those who can’t make it on the big day still get to have a say.

Some of the WA venues that will be ready from Monday include the LeisureFit Melville facility in Swan and the Joondalup Reception Centre in Moore.

However; other locations will have a staggered opening.

The Claremont Showground in the Curtin electorate and the Southern River Square Shopping Centre in Tangney will open on May 14 — a week out from the Federal election.

People can find a venue near them and check the opening times on the Australian Electoral Commission website.

AEC commissioner Tom Rogers also urged Aussies to “plan their vote” given the COVID-19 climate.

“If you can vote on election day then that’s what you should do. However; if your circumstances might prevent you from doing that then you need to think about the early voting options available, and vote according to your circumstances,” Mr Rogers said.

Mr Rogers said voting in-person would pose no greater risk than visiting the shopping centre.

“Australians have been living with COVID for more than two years now. For most people you’re visiting the shops regularly, attending events or taking public transport — voting centres will have more protections in place than most areas of society.”

There will also be dedicated “hygiene officers” that will be wiping surfaces and pencils to ensure the virus does not spread.

Staff at voting stations will be wearing masks, but voters will not be required to bring face shields unless they choose to.

Voters do not have to be vaccinated in order to enter a polling booth.

Those planning to vote on May 21 can head to the polls between 8am to 6pm.