The ABS Has Already Spent Millions Printing Same-Sex Marriage Voting Forms

It has been reported that millions have already been spent on the same-sex marriage postal vote.

This is despite the fact that the result of the High Court decision on whether the vote is unconstitutional is to be delivered at 2.15pm.

If the SSM vote is found to be unconstitutional, it may not go ahead.

However, the surveys are due to be sent next Tuesday (September 12) so the printing of voting material is already underway, as well as other promotional material and advertising.

According to news.com.au, a representative from the ABS said that $8 million would be spent on the process, regardless of the outcome of the High Court decision.

“Prior to the High Court decision, approximately $8 million will have been spent on advertising production and placement, with other costs related to updating the electoral roll, operating the information line, establishing IT and security protection, survey operations, and materials printing not yet finalised,” the spokesperson said.

“The ABS has taken steps to ensure only necessary expenditure is undertaken prior to High Court decision in order to deliver the survey in the time frames required. Contracts include clauses for termination and reduction for convenience.”