The next Council elections has been delayed and will be held in April 2027 not November 2026.
Council is sharing information early to help residents understand:
- how Council Members will be elected, and
- what has changed since the last election.
In May 2025, Council finalised a Council Member Representation Review, as required under the Local Government Act. The review included public consultation and considered how Councillors and the Mayor can best represent the community into the future. As a result, changes will apply at the 2026 Council elections.
What’s changing?
Direct election of the Mayor
From the 2027 elections, the Mayor will be elected directly by the community to represent the whole Council area. Previously, the Mayor was chosen from among elected Councillors.
Removal of wards
Council will no longer be divided into wards. All eight Councillors will be elected as area councillors, representing the entire district rather than specific wards.
These changes affect how Council Members are elected and how representation works across the district. All elected members will represent the interests of the whole community.
Key dates for the 2027 Council elections
Council elections in South Australia are conducted by the Electoral Commission of South Australia (ECSA) and are held every four years. Voting is conducted by postal ballot and voting is voluntary.
Key dates for the 2027 Council elections are:
- Close of rolls:
5.00pm, Monday 4 January 2027
(Last day to enrol or update enrolment details) - Nominations open:
Tuesday 26 January 2027 - Nominations close:
12.00 noon, Tuesday 9 February 2027 - Ballot papers mailed out:
Thursday 11 March – Wednesday 17 March 2027 - Voting closes (polling day):
5.00pm, Wednesday 7 April 2027
Official election information
The Electoral Commission of South Australia independently manages council elections to ensure they are fair, secure and transparent. For official information about:
- enrolling to vote
- checking or updating enrolment details
- nominating as a candidate
- voting by post
- key election dates
Visit www.councilelections.sa.gov.au
Council will continue to share local information and updates about the 2027 Council elections as they approach.