There are record number of candidates from South Asian background for Local Government councils in NSW.
Residents Across NSW Prepare to Vote in Local Government Elections
Residents across 128 councils in New South Wales (NSW) will head to the polls this month to vote in their local government elections. The elections, which are conducted every four years, will take place on Saturday, September 14. Polls will be open from 8am to 6pm.
Who is Conducting the Elections?
The NSW Electoral Commission will oversee the elections for 126 councils, while Liverpool and Fairfield City Councils have opted to use a commercial election provider.
Important Dates
- Election Day: Saturday, September 14
- Polling Hours: 8am to 6pm
- Pre-Poll Voting Begins: September 7
- Pre-Poll Voting Closed: September 8 (Sunday)
- Telephone and Assisted Voting Applications Open: September 7
How to Vote
To vote in person, you must do so at a polling place within your enrolled council area. You can locate your designated polling place and early polling locations using the NSW Electoral Commission’s address lookup tool. If you’re voting on election day, remember that polls will be open from 8am to 6pm.
For those who are unable to vote in person, such as those interstate, you can register for a mail-in vote here.
Understanding the Ballot
In this election, voters will select councillors who will represent their local area for the next four years. The number of councillors elected varies between councils. Some councils are divided into wards, with an equal number of councillors elected per ward. Each ward representative will act on behalf of their specific area within the larger local council.
Candidates and Parties
The local elections feature candidates from a range of parties, including major parties, smaller parties, and independents. To find out who is running in your area, use the “Who are the Candidates” tool available on the NSW Electoral Commission website.
First-Time Voters
If this is your first time voting, ensure you are enrolled in your local electorate. For information on how to enroll or update your details, visit the NSW Electoral Commission’s enrolment page.
Be sure to check your local council’s specific details and make a plan to participate in this crucial democratic process!
Voting is compulsory at all NSW local government elections except for council polls.
You must vote at a venue in your enrolled council area (or ward if you live in a divided council area). You cannot vote at a venue in another area. Use the address lookup tool to find your council or ward.
For more information please visit 2024 NSW Local Government elections – NSW Electoral Commission