WHEN buttons are pushed on Tuesday to decide where candidates stand on voting forms for Victorian council elections the process will be done behind closed doors.
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COVID-19 has prompted the Victorian Electoral Commission to stage draws in private, without candidates, the public or media attending.
An independent figure will be allowed in offices to monitor the computerised activity and report to candidates.
Difficulties with social distancing inside the election offices was deemed too hard to overcome.
NEWS FROM COURT:
Live streaming of the draws was considered, however it was deemed webcasting 299 at once from 76 offices could lead to significant technical issues.
Soon after the 1pm draws on Tuesday, results will be put on the VEC website and in windows of election offices in Wodonga, Wangaratta, Beechworth, Benalla, Bright, Cobram and Tallangatta.
Ballot packs will appear in the mail from October 6 with voting to be complete by 6pm October 23.
Results can be declared as late as November 13 with COVID rules potentially slowing counting compared to previous polls.