Riverina voters take advantage of prepoll centre's opening for federal election

In Wagga, prepoll voting can be done at 182a Baylis Street - the former Ed Harry menswear store - and candidates and their supporters were out in force on the first day.

There are four candidates running in the seat of Riverina, which is currently held by the Deputy Prime Minister and leader of The Nationals, Michael McCormack.

Challenging Mr McCormack are Labor's Mark Jeffreson, The Greens' Michael Bayles and Richard Foley from the United Australia Party.

Mr Jeffreson said he had been speaking to voters since the centre opened and was hearing "schools and hospitals matter".

"We've been very strong on that issue and our message is starting to get through," Mr Jeffreson said.

Mr Foley said voters were expressing their concerns about the cost of living and the affordability of services, particularly electricity prices.

He said the controversy surrounding water was also resonating with voters. The United Australia Party has been calling for a royal commission into water issues in the wake of the controversy surrounding the drying up of the Murray-Darling river system.

Ray Goodlass was on hand on Monday to hand out how-to-vote cards on behalf of The Greens' candidate.

Mr Goodlass said voters had spoken to him about action on climate change and about funding services like health and education.

"A couple of people have also commented on how focused this campaign has been on the leaders, when Australia has cabinet-style of government," he said.

The Nationals' Anabel Williams, who was handing out for Mr McCormack, said voters had been speaking to her about the importance of support for regional Australia and people's ability to access services and facilities.

"People in regional areas want services," she said.

While polling has opened in Wagga, voting centres in Cootamundra, Cowra, Forbes, Parkes, West Wyalong and Young will open from Saturday, May 11.