LGAT Submission - Local government urges prompt progress on electoral reform ahead of 2026 elections

Our submission on the proposed amendments to local government electoral legislation highlights the need for timely action ahead of the 2026 elections. This gives councils, candidates, and the Tasmanian Electoral Commission enough time to implement any changes successfully.

These reforms go beyond basic administrative adjustments. They are structural changes that affect the nomination process, voting procedures, and council operations during the election period. Without early certainty, there is a risk of inconsistency and unnecessary operational pressure as the October 2026 elections approach. We have provided a list of priorities for immediate implementation by the Tasmanian Government to reduce these risks.

One key concern is the proposal to remove the direct election of Deputy Mayors. The present model provides a clear, community‑driven mandate for a role with significant leadership responsibilities, including taking on the Mayor’s position when required. Our submission notes that removing direct election may reduce the community’s democratic voice by replacing a transparent, elector‑based process with an internal appointment mechanism that is less accountable to the public.

Other changes, such as making voting more accessible and establishing consistent caretaker rules, have strong support. We also support greater transparency in election advertising, as long as candidates’ safety and privacy are protected.

The sector has been clear that these reforms are welcomed, with some exceptions, and that the intent behind them is sound. However, nothing can progress until the legislation is finalised. What is now required is certainty so that implementation can move ahead smoothly and efficiently. With elections less than seven months away, progressing these reforms is essential to ensuring a transparent, consistent, and contemporary electoral framework for local government in Tasmania.