Local government elections 2026
If you wish to stand as a candidate for a local government area in these elections, nominations will open at 9 am on Monday 7 September 2026, and close at 12 noon on Monday 21 September 2026.
To complete the nomination process, you need to submit one nomination form and one (optional) candidate statement. These forms are separate and can be completed at any time during the nomination period. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that the nomination form and the candidate statement (if providing) are lodged by the close of nominations time and date above.
The number of councillor positions for each local government area will be confirmed by Parliament before nominations open. Members will be elected to serve a term of office of 4 years.
The candidate handbook provides election information and details on procedures, as well as requirements regarding campaigning and nominating.
If you would like a hard copy of the handbook, copies are available from the Tasmanian Electoral Commission (TEC) office, 294 Elizabeth St, North Hobart.
Alternatively, call the TEC on 1800 801 701 and we will post one to you.
To nominate as a candidate, you need to complete and submit a nomination form. This form must be signed by you as the candidate and also signed by at least two electors from the local government area in which you are standing.
Nominations open at 9 am on Monday 7 September 2026.
It is advisable to lodge your nomination form as early as possible to allow enough time to review your nomination and any problems to be resolved before nominations close.
Candidate statements and photographs give candidates an opportunity to provide information to electors in the postal ballot pack.
They are optional and do not form part of your nomination. You must complete and submit your nomination separately.
Statements and photographs must meet published requirements and be submitted by the stated deadlines.
The online submission form will be available here from 9 am on Monday 7 September 2026.
All candidates must lodge an electoral advertising return within 45 days after the certificate of election is issued. Candidates must declare all electoral advertising in their returns, and include all invoices, accounts and receipts.
Refer to the candidate handbook for more information about electoral advertising returns.
It is an offence not to complete and lodge a return with the Electoral Commissioner.
The Office of Local Government and the Local Government Association of Tasmania provide additional resources for those considering standing as a candidate.
The Local Government Act 1993 and other legislation relevant to Tasmanian elections can be found online. Candidates are encouraged to seek their own legal advice regarding the legislative requirements.