Local council elections in New South Wales are fast approaching, with voting day scheduled for the upcoming Saturday. The elections are crucial as they determine the representatives who will serve the local communities in each electorate. One significant aspect of local government in Australia is that it forms the third tier of government, alongside state/territory and federal levels, with councils playing a vital role in decision-making that reflects the values of the community. They oversee various services that have a direct impact on people's daily lives, such as development, public spaces like parks and libraries, rates, animals, sewage, and resource allocation.
Approximately 120 councils across NSW will be involved in the upcoming elections on September 14, where councillors and some mayors will be elected. Wards, which are geographic divisions within some councils, will also be part of the election process along with referendums and polls in specific council areas. It is noted that Sydney's Fairfield City Council and Liverpool City Council are utilizing a private election provider for this election cycle. The voting process is compulsory for residents who have lived in NSW for at least a month, with exemptions available under certain circumstances. Eligible voters must enrol through the Australian Electoral Commission if they are citizens aged 18 or older.
On the voting day, people in NSW can visit polling places within their respective council areas to cast their vote between 8am and 6pm. The voting process involves filling out a ballot paper, and voters can use tools provided by the NSW Electoral Commission to find their council and ward, along with the polling and pre-polling locations. The electoral commission also offers information on the candidates running in each council area, with individuals endorsed by political parties or running as independents. Depending on the council, voters might be electing councillors and a mayor who serve for a specified term of office, typically four years. Pre-polling options are available for those who are unable to vote on the designated day due to various reasons, with criteria set for in-person early voting at dedicated centers. Additionally, postal voting is an alternative option and applications for this close on a specific date before the election day.
Failure to vote without a valid reason may result in a penalty, with the state electoral commission issuing formal notices to non-voters. Individuals who receive such notices must provide valid reasons within a given timeframe to avoid penalties. The penalty for not voting is $55, with additional fees incurred if the matter is referred to Revenue NSW. While notices can be disputed in court, failure to comply with voting requirements may result in a significant penalty plus court costs.