[volchef]

I met a couple of Aussies while waiting to rent a car on a holiday in France. They told me that if you don't vote you have to pay a pretty hefty fine. I don't remember the exact amount but I believe they said 500 pounds.

[Vigilanteman]

Anyone who has dealt with Aussies knows a favorite local past-time is bullshiting foreigners. First of all, Australians use dollars, not pounds. Secondly, the fine is about the equivalent of about US$13.

Source= Australian Election Commission

What happens if I do not vote?

Initially the Australian Electoral Commission will write to all apparent non-voters requesting that they either provide a reason for their failure to vote or pay a $20 penalty.

If, within 21 days, the apparent non-voter fails to reply, cannot provide a valid and sufficient reason or declines to pay the penalty, then prosecution proceedings may be instigated. If the matter is dealt with in court and the person is found guilty, he or she may be fined up to $50 plus court costs.