Intro
For band 3 and 4 local governments, this will mean the removal of wards, while in band 1 and 2 local governments mayors and presidents will be directly elected for the first time.
Ahead of the deadline for submissions to the Local Government Advisory Board (14 February 2023), more than 80% of local governments have already selected the voluntary pathway outlined by the Minister.
This means that most band 3 and band 4 local governments are currently undergoing community consultation on representation and ward reviews, working towards a more dynamic and resilient local government sector that delivers better outcomes for residents.
In addition to representation changes, the amendment Bill is also set to introduce optional preferential voting systems for local government and refining eligibility criteria for candidates and voters for the 2023 local government elections.
All local government elections will move to an optional preferential voting system, bringing them in line with State and Federal voting mechanisms. This will minimise vote wastage and deliver outcomes that better reflect the desires of electors.
Rules for who is eligible to vote or run for council on the basis of a lease will be tightened, ensuring that only legitimate residents or businesses are eligible.
The department will share further information on these changes in the coming months.