The head of the Australian Electoral Commission, Ed Killesteyn, and his most senior colleague in Western Australia have quit in the wake of the state's bungled Senate election.

Special Minister of State Michael Ronaldson announced on Friday that Mr Killesteyn had formally tendered his resignation to Governor-General Quentin Bryce.

Electoral Commissioner Ed Killesteyn has resigned. Credit:Chris Lane

The High Court this week declared last September's West Australian Senate result void - paving the way for a fresh election in the state - after more than 1300 ballot papers went missing during the counting process.

Mr Killesteyn is currently on personal leave and will remain on leave until his resignation takes effect on July 4.