Electoral system changes have cleared their third reading in Parliament.
The Electoral Amendment Bill eliminates same-day voter enrolment, bars prisoners from voting, permits larger anonymous political donations, and reinforces the prohibition on offering food at polling places.
Voters must now enrol at least 13 days before election day.
The legislation conflicts with the Bill of Rights Act, and the enrolment changes could disenfranchise an estimated 100,000 or more voters.
The government claims the bill will enhance election timeliness, efficiency, and integrity.
The bill advanced through its second reading and Committee of the Whole stage under urgency last week, passing with coalition party support.
Most provisions take effect the day after Royal Assent—within days.
Others apply from New Year’s Day 2026.