[Tiki]

This is something that never even occurred to me until I saw a similar topic on FT. We've only been citizens for about 20 months and haven't been called up (knock wood). So what happens if you get called up when you have a trip planned? Will they let you switch it for another time? How much advance notice do you get? What if you are overseas when you get the notice and you fail to show up?

[Mal]

Tiki,

IIRC, you're Brisbane based as I am.

I have been in this situation I think twice.

Both times I returned my form to the Court Sheriff(?) stating that I had pre-booked travel and would be out of the country. Never heard anything back and it was not rescheduled.

I assume if you're overseas, you have nothing to worry. A fine may be levied against you for failing your duties, but you would easily get it withdrawn once you show documented proof of your absence. They may even check with Immigration to see if you were out of the country before issuing the fine.

Same goes for elections. I have also been overseas for 2 seperate elections in the last few years. I simply do a postal vote before I leave. Same thing applies about fines if I was overseas when the election is called and I don't vote.

[garyjohn951]

In Victoria you get a number of months notice. On the rear of the form it has reasons for posponment, inc planned travel. They give you 12 months grace.

[bigjobs]

just get your address taken off the electoral roll and they don't send you a notice .

travel is an acceptable reason though. when you send in your form stating why you can't attend they don't reply.

[Tiki]

Thanks, that's reassuring! On FT, people were talking about having to cancel flights and complaining they couldn't get a refund. I don't mind doing my civic duty, but not during my holidays!

Mal, how much advance notice do you get in Brisbane?

[Mal]

Originally Posted by Tiki

Thanks, that's reassuring! On FT, people were talking about having to cancel flights and complaining they couldn't get a refund. I don't mind doing my civic duty, but not during my holidays!

Mal, how much advance notice do you get in Brisbane?

I think you get about 4 weeks notice. You receive a questionaire in the mail. You then have to fill it out and return it, and if you're selected for jury service you get a summons to attend. If you are selected, you are in the jury pool for around 2 weeks and may have to attend the court house if required (you get given a juror's number and have to phone each afternoon and check which numbers are required for the next morning.

Some more info here if you're interested in the Qld jury service process Queensland Courts - Jury

[Tiki]

Excellent website, thanks for that, Mal! So now I have a much better idea what to expect.