Anyone and everyone: nominations now open for October local government elections

The nomination period for upcoming WA local government elections is now open and Shire of Narrogin president Leigh Ballard has encouraged community-minded potential candidates to consider running.

“From my perspective it’s about giving back, that’s what it’s all for,” he said.

“If you’ve got that passion and you want to give something back it’s an ideal opportunity — it’s open to anyone and everyone, so by all means put your hand up.”

Members of the community planning on running for a seat have eight days from August 31 to register their intention.

Nominations close at 4pm on Thursday, September 7 and postal voting packages will be sent out from mid-September.

Elections will take place on October 21. however, the majority of votes in local government elections are submitted by post.

This year voters in local government elections will have the option of being able to place a preferential vote, ranking candidates on the ballot in order of preference rather backing a single runner.

The change, part of the WA Government’s recent local government reforms, means that candidates will need to gain a certain percentage of the votes before they are able to be elected.

The Shire of Narrogin will be looking to fill six seats in October and Mr Ballard said that anyone seeking information on the role of a councillor was welcome to reach out

“If you’ve got any questions I’m certainly happy to answer them,” he said.

“The existing councillors I’m sure would be more than happy to give anyone some insight into what is involved and how it works.”