Timing of council elections and compulsory voting are some of the key themes emerging from a review into the local government sector, as South Australians have their say on major reforms being considered.
The Local Government Participation and Elections Review is seeking community feedback to tackle consistently low engagement in local government elections – historically only around one-third of voters choose to vote in their council elections.
Launched in October by the Minister for Local Government, the review’s Discussion Paper – which sets out bold and innovative ideas to boost voter turnout – has been downloaded more than 600 times, with over 100 surveys already completed.
Early data shows 65 per cent of respondents so far support changes to the timing of council elections – some indicated higher voter turnout if council elections were held on the same day, or close to, state elections while others suggested waiting at least 12 months between council and state elections to combat ‘voter fatigue’.
About half of survey respondents support the idea of compulsory voting, 15 per cent are against the change while the remainder have neutral views.
A majority want more accessible information about candidates including requiring them to disclose additional information about themselves as part of their nomination.
South Australians have also called for more forums where they could get to know local candidates, with ideas ranging from a greater social media presence, community ‘meet and greet’ events and public debates.
The early consensus is people are more willing to get involved if communication from and about councils is consistent year-round, driven by participation of young people.
The review also aims to increase the number and diversity of council members amid challenges to attract enough candidates to fill vacancies. For example, at the most recent 2022 elections, 93 positions were filled without an election even being held.
Other issues for discussion include term limits for elected members, removal of council wards and possible boundary changes where councils don’t receive enough nominations at election time.
South Australians are encouraged to read the Local Government Participation and Elections Review Discussion Paper and submit their feedback at yoursay.sa.gov.au/council-participation-elections.
Consultation closes on Friday, 1 March 2024.
As put by Geoff Brock
I’m passionate about South Australians connecting with local councils and having their say on decisions and activities that shape their everyday lives.
This review is about asking the public what steps they think should be taken to increase interest and participation in council elections across the state.
It’s pleasing to see a strong early response and the key themes raised will help lay the foundations for us to implement real action and increase voter turnout.
It’s clear more South Australians want to be involved and hear from diverse voices, but there are ongoing and persistent challenges that need to be addressed.
I urge everyone to take a few minutes to provide their feedback – your insights are crucial as we work towards a future for South Australia where our elected councillors represent the most diverse and capable members of their communities.
As put by LGA President, Mayor Dean Johnson
Councils are central to the development of our local communities, delivering essential services and representing diverse interests and needs – increasing public engagement in council activities is important to ensure they are reflective of the communities they serve.
As the peak body, the LGA is preparing a submission on behalf of South Australian councils, and we’re now asking our members to provide feedback and commentary to inform our position.
Importantly, this review not only aims to understand voter participation at elections but also looks at the processes which councils use to engage with their communities. Strengthening these mechanisms is an important way to increase transparency, accountability and efficiency in local governance.
Already many members are taking a strong interest in the Review, and we look forward to receiving formal feedback from councils on how as a sector we can positively contribute toward improving participation in elections and support greater local engagement in decision-making.
