Nominations will open on Tuesday 26 January 2027 via the Electoral Commission of SA website - Please see further details below.
If you are enrolled to vote in your local council elections, you are probably eligible to stand for a position on council.
Becoming a member of council is one of the most rewarding and direct ways that you can contribute to your community and influence decisions that affect the quality of life in your local area.
With very few exceptions (such as being an undischarged bankrupt, or being disqualified from holding office by a court order), you can nominate for a position on council regardless of qualifications, religion, race, gender, experience or profession.
In fact, councils encourage nominations from people from diverse backgrounds to ensure that a wide range of views are being represented.
Nomination Process
Nominations for the 2027 Local Government Elections open from Tuesday 26 January 2027 via the Electoral Commission of SA online portal. It is recommended that potential candidates download the Nomination Kit once it is available as the kit provides all the information required to ensure a smooth nomination process. Nominations close 12pm, Tuesday 9 February 2027.
The term of the next Council will be 4 years and 7 months (April 2027 to November 2031).
Further details regarding nominating can be sourced directly from the Electoral Commission of SA’s dedicated Nominate webpage.
Candidate Resources and Training Opportunities
LGA/ECSA Information for Candidates
eLearning for potential candidates
The free, self-paced Stand for Council eLearning provides a clear overview of council roles, responsibilities, and decision-making, as well as the leadership and behavioural standards expected of council members. It is designed to help potential candidates make an informed decision about standing and feel better prepared if they nominate.
The eLearning includes a leadership qualities and skills checklist, and 4 modules, covering:
- What is local government?
- Council roles
- Working together
- Leadership and behaviour
Participants can create a free account via the Council Elections website, enrol in modules and complete them in their own time:
See the eLearning modules and then you can create an account to start your training on the Stand for Council eLearning portal.
Additional candidate resources and material will be made available on our webpage as it becomes available.
Candidate FAQs
In the lead up to the election candidates may contact our office with questions to assist them with requirements pertaining to their campaign, however Council staff are not able to provide support or provide assistance to any candidate with their campaigning.