Eden-Monaro by-election could be held as early as June

Under the Electoral Act, voters in the hotly-contested seat could go to the polls as soon as early June, but the precise timing of the by-election rests with the government, which is likely to take into account political advantage and the possible easing of social distancing restrictions in setting a date.

Officially, the decision on the by-election date rests with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tony Smith, who is responsible for issuing the writs that set out the election timetable.

House rules do not specify how soon after a MP resigns that a writ for the by-election has to be issued, though the "guiding principle" is that it be as soon as possible to ensure electors are not left without a representative any longer than is necessary.

Under the Electoral Act, a by-election should be held within one to two months of the issue of a writ.

If Mr Smith were to act immediately, a by-election could be held as early a June 6 or as late as July 4.

A week after the writ is issued electoral rolls are closed and the deadline for nominations must be no later than 27 days.

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Polling day itself must take place between 23 and 31 days after the close of nominations.

The Australian Electoral Commission said postal and pre-poll voting will be available to help voters comply with social distancing requirements.