Election week weather: rain ahead for NSW but blue skies forecast in most Australian cities on polling day

The forecast calls for wet weather across eastern New South Wales into the coming days, with clearer skies expected on election day as conditions improve. Persistent showers and strong winds continue along the NSW coast and Victoria, while other regions see less rain. Polling days in cities like Canberra and Melbourne are dry, though Darwin is set to stay sunny with high temperatures. Many polling places will host barbecues or cake stalls to boost fundraising efforts, unaffected by the weather. The cooler temps on election day and the potential for showers in certain areas make this a busy but manageable voter experience.