Opinion - Don't forget to take a seat at the table this October

Don't forget to take your seat at the table this October

In October, Tasmanians will again be asked to vote in local government elections across all 29 councils.

This week, the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) is launching its ‘Seat at the Table’ campaign. It has a simple but important message: if you care about your community, consider stepping forward and nominating to be a councillor.

As the closest level of government to the community, councils make decisions that impact everyone's lives. They are responsible for representing the interests of their communities and delivering local services and infrastructure.

Local government is where decisions become tangible. Councils shape the places we live – our roads, parks, planning decisions, waste services and community spaces. They influence not only how our towns function, but how they feel.

Across Tasmania, many committed individuals have already stepped forward to serve as councillors. By encouraging a broader range of people to nominate, we can ensure our councils even more strongly reflect and represent the communities they serve.

That means people from different backgrounds, professions, cultures, ages and life experiences. It means people who understand what it’s like to run a small business, raise a family, volunteer, or navigate housing pressures.

There is good reason for this. Research consistently shows that diverse groups make better decisions. They bring a broader range of ideas, perspectives and lived experiences to the table.

In local government, that translates into decisions that are more balanced, more inclusive, and better aligned with the needs of the whole community. It can also increase trust, because people see themselves reflected in those making decisions that affect their lives.

Being a councillor is not always easy. It requires time, commitment and a willingness to learn and engage constructively on complex issues. But it is also one of the most direct ways you can contribute to your community, helping to set direction, solve problems and represent local voices.

It’s also an incredible opportunity for personal growth. Councillors develop skills in leadership, communication and strategic thinking. You may discover strengths you never knew you had.

Councils rely on people who are prepared to step forward. Not because they have all the answers, but because they are willing to listen, learn, and contribute.

LGAT’s ‘Seat at the Table’ campaign is about encouraging people like you to consider nominating to represent your local community and participate in local leadership. Our Candidate Handbook has all the information you need to know to get started.

Ultimately, local government works best when it truly reflects the communities it serves.

So, as the October elections approach, the question is simple: if you want a say in your community’s future, why not consider taking a seat at the table?

Dion Lester
Chief Executive Officer – Local Government Association of Tasmania

As published in The Advocate on 30 May 2026