CSV File Format for Online PR-STV Counting

The PRSA’s free online PR-STV counting service takes ballot papers in the comma-separated values (CSV) file format. A CSV file can be easily prepared using ordinary spreadsheet software, such as Microsoft Excel.

Open Microsoft Excel and create a new blank workbook. In the first row, type the names of the candidates, one in each cell. In the below example, there are 7 candidates:

Each of the following rows will represent one ballot paper. On row 2, type the preference numbers given by the first voter for each candidate. If no preference is given for a particular candidate, leave the cell blank. In the below example, the voter indicated a number ‘1’ preference for Evans, and a number ‘2’ preference for Thomson:

Continue in this way to enter the preferences of each remaining ballot paper. In the below example, there are 4 ballot papers in total:

When you have finished entering all of the ballot papers, click File → Save As.

If required, click Browse to open the file picker window.

Navigate to where you would like to save the CSV file. Next to Save as type, select CSV (Comma delimited).

Give the file a name, and click Save. You may receive a warning ‘The selected file type does not support…’ or ‘Some features in your workbook…’. This is normal – click ‘OK’ or ‘Yes’ to dismiss the warning.

You can now load the CSV file onto the PRSA’s free online PR-STV counting service to count the ballot papers.

Optional Preferential Voting

The PRSA’s free online PR-STV counting service automatically validates ballot paper formality using the optional preferential method of voting.

Any ballot paper which does not express a unique first preference will be automatically regarded as informal, and reported as ‘Exhausted’ in the first stage of counting.

Any ballot paper with duplicate or skipped preference numbers will automatically cause the duplicated or skipped preference, and all subsequent preferences, to be disregarded.

Certified Election and Vote-Counting Services

For clients requiring certified services or assistance with vote counting, the Proportional Representation Society of Australia (Victoria–Tasmania) provides election and vote-counting services at competitive rates, including the counting of ballot papers cast in your election, or the appointment of one of PRSAV-T’s Accredited PR-STV Vote-counting Officers as the Returning Officer to conduct your entire election.