Paul Tucker
Updated on: October 10, 2024 11:13 pm GMT
On Saturday, New South Wales will witness a significant local government election, marked by heightened attention and some unexpected developments within the political landscape. After an administrative blunder led to 140 Liberal candidates being sidelined from pursuing their candidacies across 16 councils, the stage is set for a potentially transformative election cycle.
What You Need to Know About the 2024 Local Government Elections
Voting Requirements
All Australian citizens aged 18 and above are required to enroll and participate in local elections, similar to the mandates in federal and state elections. Failure to vote without a valid excuse may result in a fine of approximately $55. Notably, voters can avoid penalties if they are hospitalized or out of the state on polling day.
Polling Hours and Locations
Polls will open promptly at 8 AM and close at 6 PM on Saturday. For those wishing to cast their ballots ahead of time, dedicated pre-poll centers will be operational from 8:30 AM to 8 PM on Thursday, and 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Friday. It is important to note that postal voting is no longer available. Voters must cast their ballots at polling booths designated within their local council areas based on the address registered with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC). Residents can locate their specific polling places by using the AEC’s search tool on their official website, or by calling 1300 135 736 for assistance.
Voting Methods
When filling out a ballot, voters have options depending on their preference for either above-the-line or below-the-line voting. For above-the-line voting, a single number ‘1’ must be placed in the box corresponding to the chosen candidate or group. Conversely, below-the-line voting requires numbering each box in order of preference, starting with ‘1’ for the most favored candidate. Given that requirements may vary between councils, it is advisable for voters to carefully read the instructions accompanying their ballot papers.
Local Government Structure and Responsibilities
Councillors will be elected to serve four-year terms, representing either entire council areas or specific wards if the council structure is divided. While some councils, about one in four, operate with directly elected mayors, most councils appoint their mayors from among the elected councillors.
In addition to electing councillors, residents in eight councils, including areas like Woollahra and Port Macquarie-Hastings, will also be voting on referendums intended to modify council structures. Furthermore, two councils will contain polling questions that residents must address.
Councils play a pivotal role in managing community services such as road maintenance, waste management, and development planning. The remuneration for councillors varies widely. In smaller rural councils, councillors earn between $10,220 and $13,520 annually. By contrast, City of Sydney councillors receive between $30,720 and $45,070, with the lord mayor, Clover Moore, potentially earning up to an additional $247,390. Moore, who is campaigning for a historic sixth term, has characterized this election as the “most desperate” of her extensive public career.
Public Engagement and Accessibility
To ensure widespread participation, information on the voting process will be available in 24 community languages and shared at polling locations through QR codes. Voters requiring language assistance can request help from polling staff, who can connect them to interpreters via the Translating and Interpreting Service.
The upcoming elections not only present an opportunity for change within council representation but also highlight the urgent need for voters to be informed and engaged. With pivotal issues at stake and a chance to shape the future of local governance, residents are being encouraged to participate actively in the electoral process.
Campaign Dynamics Following Electoral Controversies
Political dynamics in New South Wales have been particularly stirred following the recent administrative errors that affected the Liberal Party’s candidate slate. The fallout from the “monumental stuff-up” has led to increased tension within the party, igniting factional disputes and attempts to reclaim control over its provincial branch.
Despite these internal challenges, the election sets the stage for new contenders to emerge, which may reshape the political landscape in various councils. The unexpected developments could lead to a more diverse representation and possibly shift the balance of power across New South Wales.
As candidates gear up for the final stretch of campaigning, the addition of independent and third-party groups advocating for various issues reflects a growing trend among voters seeking alternatives to traditional party candidates. This shift underscores the changing political climate and the electorate’s desire for responsive governance.
As our community gets ready for polling day, it’s really important for everyone to pay attention to local issues. How we vote will help decide what happens with our councils in New South Wales. Every single vote matters! With easy ways to vote and more people getting involved in politics, we have a great chance to make choices that will really change our neighborhoods for the better.
