New laws are in place to ensure local government elections will go ahead on 4 December, after COVID-19 twice postponed the process.
The Local Government Amendment (COVID-19 – Elections Special Provisions) Act 2021 will give emergency powers to Local Government Minister Shelley Hancock, who under the advice of the NSW Electoral Commissioner, can address risks concerning COVID-19.
Mrs Hancock welcomed the passing of the legislation, which will prevent further interruptions to the elections and protect the health and safety of voters, candidates and election staff if needed.
“We are constantly adapting to the current environment caused by COVID-19, and the Government is leaving nothing to chance to ensure COVID-safe local government elections occur on December 4,” Mrs Hancock said.
Other measures are also in place to reduce the number of electors attending polling booths on election day, to assist with social distancing.
Find out more about the 2021 local government elections
Find out more about local government elections from the Electoral Commission
