Participating in your local council election is one of the most direct ways you can make a difference to everyday life in your community.

Council is made up of 12 Elected Members, one of whom is the Mayor, and all are elected by eligible voters.

Elected Members can nominate in one of Council’s three wards – Kalkabury, Gum Flat or Innes/Pentonvale.

In accordance with the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999, elections are held every four years, with the next election 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 package through the mail and return their votes in a reply paid envelope.

For more information about the 2026 Local Government Elections visit https://www.councilelections.sa.gov.au/

 

2026 DATES

DESCRIPTION	DATE
Close of rolls If you’re enrolled to vote in SA state elections, you’ll automatically be enrolled to vote in council elections. A ballot pack will be sent to your registered mailing address. You can check and update your enrolment details online, and can enrol if needed.	5:00 pm, Friday 31 July 2026
Nominations open Interested in running for council? You’ll need to nominate to become a candidate before you can start campaigning your candidacy.	Tuesday 25 August 2026
Nominations close You must submit your nomination before the deadline. Learn how to nominate.	12 noon, Tuesday 8 September 2026
Ballot packs mail-out period Ballot packs will be sent to the mailing address included on your enrolment. Keep an eye out for it in the mail! Instructions and guides on how to vote are included in the ballot pack.	Thursday 15 October to Wednesday 21 October 2026
Voting close (polling day) You must return your ballot papers so they reach the electoral commission before this deadline.	5:00 pm, Wednesday 11 November 2026