NSW Local Government Election Voting to Proceed After Turbulent Lead-Up

Voters in New South Wales who enjoy a good sausage sizzle or a slice of cake while casting their ballots are in for a treat. Across the state, polling booths are bustling with grills, tongs, and coffee stalls, offering an array of high-cholesterol delights and homemade sweets.

According to Democracysausage.org, many voting locations feature barbecues, cake stalls, and a variety of food options including bacon and eggs, vegan choices, and coffee. For instance, Middle Harbour Public School in Mosman and Lapstone Public School in the west both offer sausages, cakes, and vegan options. Nicholson Street Public School on the harbor also provides a full selection of food and drinks. St Kierans Parish Centre in Manly Vale boasts a busy barista alongside its grill and cake stalls.

Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig emphasized the importance of voting, highlighting that councils invest over $15 billion annually in services and about $7 billion in infrastructure and community facilities. “We need to elect competent and hardworking councillors,” he said, urging voters to make their votes count.

The elections come at the end of a tumultuous period marked by significant issues. The NSW council elections have faced turmoil, including a major administrative error that led to 140 Liberal candidates missing out on nominations across 16 councils. This blunder led to a federal takeover of the NSW Liberal Party and frustration among affected councillors.

In Liverpool City, the council is on the brink of suspension due to serious allegations of bullying and interference. An inquiry is expected post-election, potentially affecting the newly elected council.

In the Sutherland Shire, current Liberal Mayor Carmelo Pesce and Deputy Mayor Carol Provan were removed from the party ticket and are running as independents. Both have pledged not to direct preferences to the Liberal Party.

With some elections cancelled in 14 council areas due to a lack of candidates, voters will find that these areas have been declared uncontested, with candidates elected unopposed.

HOW TO VOTE

• Over a million early votes and 213,012 postal votes have been cast as of Friday morning.
• Polling stations will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday.
• Some councils will also conduct mayoral elections, referendums, and polls.
• Voters must cast their ballots within their designated council area or ward.
• Postal votes must be received by the NSW Electoral Commission by 6 p.m. on September 27.

DO I HAVE TO VOTE?

• Voting is compulsory in Australia.
• Failure to vote without a valid excuse results in a $55 fine, which increases if not paid within 28 days.

WHAT COUNCIL AM I IN?

• The NSW Electoral Commission provides a search tool to help voters check their council and ward and find local polling locations.

WILL THERE BE SAUSAGES?

• Yes, barbecues will be out in full force. Democracysausage.org offers a detailed map of food options available at local polling booths.