Participating in your local council election is one of the most direct ways you can make a difference to everyday life in your community.
Councils are part of the democratic framework of Australia. The community elects their council members every four years. The next periodic Council Election will happen in November 2026.
Unlike State and Federal elections, it is not compulsory to vote in South Australian council elections and all voting is done by post. Enrolled voters receive a voting pack through the mail and return their votes in a reply – paid envelope.
The rules for elections are set out in the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 - an act of the South Australian Parliament.
Are you thinking of nominating for your local council? The next local government elections will be held in 2026.
Refer to the Electoral Commission SA website for eligibility criteria.
Voting in council elections is open to a broader range of people than state and federal elections, including non-Australian citizens, non-resident landlords and businesses.
The voters roll for council elections consists of two components – the state (House of Assembly) electoral roll, and the council supplementary roll.
Prior to the next local government election in 2026:
To find out which ward you live in, view the city wide interactive and individual ward maps.