The South Australian Government has announced that it will be undertaking a Local Government Participation and Elections Review, releasing a discussion paper for feedback.
Designed to shape major reforms and tackle consistently low engagement in local government elections, the discussion paper puts forward several bold ideas, including the possibility of compulsory voting.
Council elections hold a unique place in South Australia’s democratic system, allowing residents to choose who represents them and makes decisions on their behalf about local services, facilities and rates.
The discussion paper puts forward a variety of ideas for discussion, like compulsory voting, term limits for elected members, removal of council wards and possible boundary changes where councils don’t receive enough nominations at election time.
While feedback is now being sought from all South Australians, the LGA will be seeking direct feedback from members to formulate a sector-wide view during the consultation period, which is open 29 February 2024.
Councils are also encouraged to submit feedback directly to YourSAy at yoursay.sa.gov.au/council-participation-elections
Read the Local Government Participation and Elections Review discussion paper.
