The body governing the December local council elections has defended its decision to ban how-to-vote cards near polling places.

Candidate for Sydney Lord Mayor Angela Vithoulkas yesterday called out the seemingly nonsensical COVID restrictions, seeking clarification.

NSW Electoral Commissioner John Schmidt confirmed the “raft of measures” to Ben Fordham, explaining he wanted to prevent a “crush” of voters contracting COVID by the doorway.

With his power limited to a 100 metre radius of the polling places, what political participants do beyond that point is “a matter for them”.

“You have to remember, there’s no requirements for a voter who turns up to be vaccinated.

“My driving aim in this election … is to to do everything I can to ensure that as far as possible, it’s safe for everybody.”

Press PLAY below to hear his explanation in full

Image: Getty