THOUSANDS of Riverina voters have cast their ballots ahead of election day, escaping the rush in eight days time.
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The Australian Electoral Commission figures show 5783 people have already made their choice at the early voting centre since April 29.
The conditions of early voting before May 18 include plans to travel interstate or overseas, work commitments, illness or living more than eight kilometres from a polling venue.
Mick Connors, of Wagga, was among those who took an early trip to the voting booth.
"I wanted to get in early and I didn't want to line up on election day," he said.
Mr Connors arrived at the early voting centre with a decision on the candidate receiving his vote.
But, he believed four candidates did not offer much choice for voters.
"People are sick and tired of the major parties and we need more choice," he said.
"The problem is that we hear a lot from our candidates in the lead up to the election and once a decision has been made, it's silent. I want to be hearing more from the candidates long before the election."
Katrina Bradley, of Junee, is tied up on election day, but she said an extra week would not have change her choice.
"I vote for the same party every time, so I am prepared to vote," she said. "My decision won't change regardless of what happens between now and the election."
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Jessica Sewell, of Wagga, wanted to "get it out of the way" because she will be coaching at a basketball tournament on election day.
Before visiting the early voting centre she had made her decision. However, once she was there she noticed many smaller parties on the ballot paper.
"I do believe the election coverage has focused on the major parties, Labor and Liberal. It would be better to see more coverage of all parties to let people know about all their options," she said.
Jeff Wellfare, of Wagga, said his vote has been given to the party that offered him the best deal.
"I do not think my decision will change. They have spoke about their policies and have shown me what they stand for," he said.
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