Elections

Western Australia has 139 local governments  ranging in size from 150 people to over 182,000. For each of these, a council of elected members sets the directions and policies of the local government. Local government elections play an important role in our democratic system and are an excellent opportunity for people to contribute to, and be involved in their local community. Electors are encouraged to nominate to be a councillor in their local government elections. Any eligible elector can stand for council. Councillors are elected for terms of four years in Western Australia. Elections are held every two years for half of the council, and candidates are elected using the first-past-the-post voting system. If a vacancy occurs within a term, an extraordinary election is held.

Council Elections

The next local government ordinary election will be held in October 2019 with Councillors elected for a four-year term. 

How do I vote?

The election is a postal election only conducted by the Western Australian Electoral Commission.

A postal voting package will be sent to all eligible electors around three weeks prior to polling day. The package will include a list of candidates, ballot papers, instructions on how to vote and a declaration. To vote, follow the instructions included in the package.

I haven’t received my postal voting package, what do I do?

Replacement Packages can be obtained from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River prior to election day and from 8.00am to 6.00pm on election day if the package is not received or should any papers be missing.

Chief Polling Place: 41 Wallcliffe Road, MARGARET RIVER

The count of votes will commence at 6.00pm at the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, 41 Wallcliffe Road, MARGARET RIVER.

Who votes for the Shire President?

The Shire President of the Council is elected by the Councillors from amongst themselves at a Special Meeting following the election. 

When will I know the results of the election?

The election is conducted by the Electoral Commissioner. Election results will usually be declared by the Commission on the night of the election. The count will take place in the Council Chambers and members of the public are invited to attend.

Councillors are responsible for representing the interests of the residents of the district, providing leadership and guidance to the community, facilitating communication and participating in decision-making.

More information

For further information, please contact the Western Australian Electoral Commission on 13 63 06.

Further information on Local Government Elections may be obtained from the Department of Local Government and Regional Development website.

Past election results

Election Results for the Shire of Augusta Margaret River elections since May 1999 may be obtained from the Western Australian Electoral Commission website.

To apply to vote in the local government elections please complete the Enrolment Eligibility Claim Form.

Interest in Becoming a Councillor?

To find out more on hoe to become a councillor visit our Becoming a Councillor page.