It’s that time of year again to have your say in how local politics in SA is run.
Don’t miss your opportunity to influence decision making and shape the future of your local community, with nominations opening from 23 August 2022 for this year’s local government elections.
South Australians from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences are encouraged to nominate for election to the council and make a difference in their community. Elected members are in a privileged position to directly influence decisions that affect the quality of life of residents in their local area.
As community leaders, elected members have a wide range of responsibilities.
These include providing a voice to local residents, community groups and businesses, making decisions about community assets such as parks, roads or infrastructure, and balancing competing pressures and demands on council resources.
Minister for Local Government Geoff Brock said that it’s vital a diverse group of council members who can represent a wide variety of people such as more women, young candidates, people from diverse cultural backgrounds and people living with disability nominate.
“As a former councillor and Mayor in Port Pirie, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to make a difference and work as a team to implement a vision to create a better community for everyone. My time on my local council was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
“I encourage South Australians to consider taking the next step in community involvement by nominating in this year’s Local Government Elections.
“Deciding to stand as a candidate is personally rewarding and provides an opportunity to shape decision making at a grassroots level and ensure that your community is well-served. As the closest government tier to our communities, it is important that our local councils and elected members accurately represent the communities they serve.
“If you’re interested in nominating, it’s a great idea to attend a candidate briefing session in your local area. This is a chance to hear about the ins and outs of being a council member, ask questions about the process and the requirements of the role, and learn how your council administrations support their members to achieve their aspirations for their community,” Brock said.
Councils across the state are hosting information sessions to help prospective candidates understand what is involved in serving as an elected member.
Nominations to stand for election in the 2022 Local Government Elections close at 12pm on Tuesday 6 September 2022.
To register for a session in your local area, please head to www.lga.sa.gov.au/council-elections.
For more on the election process, including how to nominate as a candidate, please visit the Electoral Commission of South Australia website at ecsa.sa.gov.au.
