Michael makes his vote count

16 May 2019

Michael, who is blind, believes that voting in every state and federal election is an important way to make a difference to his life and wellbeing. But he admits he’s not really interested in politics outside of election time.

Music is more his thing!

Funnily enough, it is a device that he bought to listen to music that led him to become a better-informed voter.

Michael lives at one of VMCH’s supported accommodation houses and his support team thought a Google Home Assistant device would be a great way for him to listen to stories about the election before he cast his vote.

Michael and his VMCH support worker recently visited a local pre-polling booth to cast his vote. Before-hand, Michael used the device to listen to news stories about the different political parties and their policies.

Michael’s VMCH support team initially helped him purchase, set up and understand how to use the device. He uses it mostly to listen to music – which is his passion. He has thousands of CDs, but his new device is a great way for him to quickly access his favourite music.

He also enjoys using it to listen to reviews about restaurants – another interest of his is visiting different restaurants with his support workers.

The Australian Electoral Commission provides people with a disability or mobility restriction options to help them cast their vote.

All voting centres need to provide Braille and large print guides, wheelchair access ramps, specific door widths and nearby disabled parking.

AEC polling officials are also trained to assist people with a range of needs when they attend a polling place.

Learn more about VMCH’s accommodation services or our team of support workers here: https://vmch.com.au/services/disability-care-services-melbourne/

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Acknowledgement of Country

We here at VMCH respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and we would like to take a moment to honour the fact that we live on the lands of the oldest civilisation in the world. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.