Alberta launches website ahead of Oct. 19 referendum

By Your Southwest Media Group

Alberta has launched a new website to provide information on a provincewide referendum scheduled for Oct. 19.

The site, AlbertaReferendum2026.ca, outlines nine ballot questions and includes background material intended to help voters make informed decisions on issues related to provincial immigration policy and constitutional change.

Premier Danielle Smith said the referendum will give residents a direct voice in shaping the province’s future.

“Alberta has been built by people who stand up for what they believe in,” Smith said. “This referendum gives Albertans a direct say in how we build on that legacy, and create a more sovereign Alberta within a united Canada.”

The nine questions stem from recommendations by the Alberta Next Panel following consultations with residents, subject-matter experts and policy-makers through a series of town halls.

Five of the questions focus on immigration policy. The province says population growth has placed pressure on services such as classrooms, emergency departments and social programs, and the referendum seeks public input on how provincial policies should respond.

The remaining four questions relate to potential constitutional changes, including options for Alberta to work with other provinces to seek adjustments to the division of powers between federal and provincial governments.

Justice Minister Mickey Amery said the website is intended to ensure voters have access to clear information ahead of the vote.

“This is about putting decisions back where they belong, with Albertans,” Amery said. “Through this new website, we’re making sure people can make informed decisions and cast their ballots with confidence.”

The referendum will be administered by Elections Alberta, with voting procedures expected to mirror those used in provincial elections, including in-person polling stations and paper ballots for eligible voters.