Voting instructions and candidate statements for Hobart City Council.
Voting is compulsory. Your vote must be received by 2pm on Tuesday 27 October 2026
Don’t delay – late votes won’t be counted!
There are 3 elections being held for Hobart City Council:
As well as this booklet, your postal ballot pack contains:
Your ballot paper envelope is designed to keep your identity separate from your vote.
Successful candidates for mayor and deputy mayor must also be elected as councillors to be able to accept these offices. The elected councillors, mayor and deputy mayor will serve until October 2030.
Questions? Call 1800 801 701.
Postal services take a number of days, so it is important to complete and return your vote now.
Your vote must be received by 2pm on Tuesday 27 October 2026.
Don’t delay, late votes can’t be counted. Failure to vote may incur a fine.
Follow these five easy steps:
Candidates were invited to provide a statement and photo for your consideration. Statements are reproduced here as provided by the candidate.
Statements appear in alphabetical order but the order of names on ballot papers is rotated.
Number the boxes on each ballot paper from 1 onwards in the order of your choice.
For the election of 9 councillors, number the boxes from 1 to 32 in order of your choice. Number at least 5 boxes to make your vote count.
For the election of Lord Mayor, number the boxes from 1 to 11 in order of your choice. Number at least one box to make your vote count.
For the election of Deputy Lord Mayor, number the boxes from 1 to 10 in the order of your choice. Number at least one box to make your vote count.
Put your completed ballot papers in the ballot paper envelope, which is the smaller envelope with the wider flap, and seal it securely.
Sign your ballot paper envelope in the box on the flap to declare that you are the voter named on this envelope and you have voted on the ballot papers in this envelope. You must sign the envelope and leave the flap attached — or your vote won’t be counted. The returning officer will remove the flap with your details on it before opening the envelope.
Then put your ballot paper envelope in the reply-paid envelope — the larger envelope — and seal it.
Post your reply paid envelope straight away (no stamp needed), or take your vote to the Hobart City Council office.
I am standing as an independent candidate, Having lived and worked in Hobart all my life while raising a family, 34 of those years at the Hobart City Council as an arborist and horticulturalist, I have an insider’s understanding of how local government operates and how its decisions impact your day-to-day life. I care deeply about Hobart and believe our Council needs to work harder for the community by focusing on transparent, sensible decisions that deliver real value to ratepayers, free from the gridlock of party politics. I support a safe, low-impact Mount Wellington cable car.
I'm a 30-year-old Hobart mum with a disability. I am an independent. I will make sure women and people with a disability have a say in decisions that impact them. I will make wise housing, cost-of-living and safety choices for people who live in and visit Hobart. I will look after our public spaces and advocate to share them. I will listen to people, explain decisions clearly and work with others respectfully. I will help Hobart grow while protecting the environment. I want to review parking for residents, carers and people with disabilities. www.tiffanyashdown.com
More homes. Cheaper parking. A night economy that works. I moved here five years ago. This city gave me a home and a community. Now I want to give that back, by making Hobart work for the people who actually live here. More homes means backing housing our public service already recommends, not blocking it for a headline. Cheaper parking means real relief for everyone. A stronger night economy means safer streets, later transport, and businesses open past dark. Not radical, just Hobart working properly. Vote Bari for your future.
As a former Alderman and Member of Parliament, I know how to get things done. Hobart is the hardest city in Australia to build a home; We need to facilitate housing and development, not obstruct it. I will cut red tape, cap rates, demand strict budget scrutiny, and stop Town Hall wasting your hard earned money on ideological pet projects. We must revitalise our CBD into a safe, welcoming and accessible destination; support small business, reverse anti-car policies, reduce parking costs, and end anti-social behaviour. Council must respect the ratepayers who fund it. Vote 1 Simon Behrakis.
Hobart should be a city of opportunity - a place where people can happily live, grow a business, create, invest and belong. A Hobart born accountant, I believe in sound finances, modest rates, sensible development, safer streets, strong local business and a city that values arts and culture while caring for older people and those who are vulnerable. I want our young people to see a future here - with careers, good jobs and reasons to stay and build our future city. As Lord Mayor, I will bring calm, professional leadership focused on results. Lethobartbloom.org
Hobart born & bred, a family man, local ratepayer & small business owner with over a decade in finance. I want a council that says yes faster, so families can build or renovate without long delays. I will push for easier access into the CBD for the locals & businesses who rely on it, & for decisions made on evidence & open discussion. I'd love to see an ocean pool at Long Beach in Sandy Bay, with a ferry stop nearby giving all Hobartians easy access. I'll work with council staff & fellow councillors to make sure every ratepayer dollar has a clear benefit attached to it. cameronbrumby.com.au
Hi, I’m Sam an average working 37-year-old guy & Hobart is my home. I’ve volunteered & contributed to our community for almost a decade, efforts which I’ve been honoured to receive recognition for. It’s time to take the next step, that’s why I’m asking you to Vote 1 Sam Campbell for Councillor & Deputy Mayor. I believe councils can do more, & with your help we will make Hobart meet peoples’ needs & become the city you want! People & Environment Before Profit! I stand for: Fair Rates, Homes for Hobart, Better Buses, A People Focused CBD, & Empower Local Democracy! Set’s win the future today!
So, a bit about me. I’m still kind of a newcomer to Hobart — seven years in, which somehow feels like both five minutes and a lifetime. I moved here from Melbourne for love, and honestly, it’s still one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Before Tasmania, I spent over 35 years in Federal and State Government, dealing with everyone — the ones who think they’re important, the ones who are, and everyone in between. My rule’s simple: treat people the same. Titles don’t impress me; behaviour does. Back in Melbourne, I dealt with two “colourful” councils through tennis clubs. The State Government
I am Tassie-born and grew up in Gagebrook. I have a legal background. I am the only non-incumbent candidate to have gone to Council meetings for months and asked questions on behalf of ratepayers. I show up and have been working hard to bring grassroots representation back to Hobart. I support light rail; new public infrastructure; development; business; planning reform for more homes; professionalism in council; more functional greenspace, lower rate increases and getting Council priorities back to basics such as fixing roads and footpaths. Hobart and its community first. www.jasondale.com.au
8 years on Council. Made reasoned, independent, evidence-based decisions. Never a member of an Australian political party. I will: cap rates and protect ratepayers; scrutinise Macquarie Point Stadium development impacts on our city; oppose cable car, support Halls Saddle Visitor Hub; make city safer; protect environment, heritage and Aboriginal landscapes; support arts, events and small business; cut red tape; advocate for the Battery Point Walkway; grow Hobart as STEM, education and Antarctic gateway. Independent. Experienced. Hobart-focused. Vote 1 Mike Dutta Councillor and Lord Mayor.
Rates are far too high. I will keep working hard for fair rates – delivering excellent value for your hard-earned money – eliminating waste – common sense decisions – affordable parking and practical traffic solutions – welcoming homes, hotels, businesses, investment and jobs – fixing roads, footpaths, stormwater infrastructure and neglected facilities – great parks and playgrounds – returning life to our CBD – minimising regulation – protecting rights and freedoms – restoring transparency, accountability, genuine consultation and trust. VOTE 1 ELLIOT for Common Sense. www.louiseelliot.com.au
As an experienced Greens Councillor and not-for-profit director, I bring strong leadership, sound governance, and a focus on real outcomes. With qualifications in urban studies, education, and environmental management, I am dedicated to climate action, biodiversity, and healthy communities. As a small business operator, I understand the practical challenges our community faces. I am passionate about housing affordability, waste management, protecting Kunanyi and our parks, and safeguarding Hobart from fire, flood, and drought. Vote 1 Bill Harvey for Mayor and Councillor, and Greens 1–5.
I'm Trenton, one of your Greens Candidates for Council! As a renter and queer person, I want a Hobart for everyone, regardless of background. Raised by a single mum, I learnt early in life how connected communities support others. That shaped my values of empathy and inclusion. Hobart has a vibrant community, full of creativity and kindness. We need representatives who will protect what makes this place special and prioritise creating a fairer and greener city. With a track record in good governance and advocating for others, I have what it takes to do the job. Vote 1-5 Greens!
I'm a landscape architect, a Hobart local, and a father of three young children. Together with my wife, Tess, we're proud to call Hobart home. I'm standing as a Greens council candidate for the City of Hobart to improve public spaces across Hobart, from the CBD to our neighbourhoods and local parks. Well-designed public spaces bring people together, support local businesses, encourage walking and cycling, and make our city more enjoyable for everyone. Vote 1-5 Greens for thoughtful, collaborative, progressive city leaders. @aj_hobartcitycouncil
Hobart needs experienced, respectful, community-minded leadership. I have operated a Hobart small business for over 20 years, held public-sector roles in IT, and are a UTAS graduate. I chair Business Greater Hobart and are involved in Choir of High Hopes and Rotary. My priorities: get the basics right; support local businesses and jobs; improve traffic flow, parking and access; spend ratepayer money responsibly; and create a safer and welcoming city. For the past two years I have strongly advocated against the current bike lanes in Collins Street. Vote 1 for Deputy Lord Mayor and Councillor.
Vision and delivery set me apart. My lifelong connection to Hobart is reflected in my achievements: restoring heritage buildings such as the State Cinema, growing businesses that employ, train and serve our community, and turning ideas into action. I offer strong, independent and experienced leadership that respects our heritage, arts and culture, environment and way of life. Hobart deserves better value for rates, a vibrant and accessible city, and a well-planned, sustainable future built on practical decisions and proven delivery. I know our city and have the experience to deliver.
It’s time to put the people of Hobart before personal politics. We need experienced, credible leadership and a sensible balance. I bring that as a former CEO of RACT and Hobart City Mission. I have a 10 point plan for A Better Hobart including keeping rates low and am ready to get to work. My vision is for a Hobart that moves, is affordable and is open for business. I’ll respect our natural and built heritage while embracing opportunity. I’ll lead a trusted, constructive council with maturity and compassion. For A Better Hobart, Vote 1 Harvey Lennon. Find out more https://campaign.harveylennon
Hobart has been my home for 18 years, and I am proud to be part of our community. As a former Australian Army Reservist and now a qualified driving instructor, I believe in service, responsibility and giving back. I want a Council that focuses on things that matter to people every day. Let’s make Hobart a better place to live, work and do business. I want to cut wasteful spending to bring rates down, act on housing by fast-tracking tiny and micro homes as emergency housing for the homeless and get Hobart moving and support business through adjusting the poorly designed bike lanes and parklets.
I’m an independent Councillor first elected in 2022. I worked for Hobart City Mission until late last year, and I now volunteer around Hobart. I support the Battery Point Walkway, shared spaces in South Hobart, the Halls Saddle visitor hub, and responsible budget management. I’m opposed to the cable car, and any stadium cost-shifting onto ratepayers. I’ll keep working cooperatively if re-elected. During this term I put up joint motions with nine colleagues, and I haven’t been the subject of complaints from other Councillors. I’ll also continue to refuse gifts and donations. BenLohberger.com.au
I am running for Hobart City Council to make a difference. I believe my experience in local government, business and community leadership with a strong focus on accountability, transparency and responsible decision making, can make a positive contribution to our community. I served 7 years on the Glenorchy City Council including the Glenorchy Planning Authority, the Youth Task Force, the Disability Committee and Chair of the Governance, Audit and Risk Committee. I worked at Incat for almost 25 years in management positions and served as a director on both government and private sector boards.
No candidate statement.
Hobart born, I love this place and want to see it thrive. I’ve lived and worked in Greater Hobart for the past 37 years. My wife and I have recently bought our forever home, a unit near the university. I’m 100% independent with no ambition for higher office. Council should focus on local issues, better services, more housing and common sense decisions. I bring extensive finance experience and believe rates can be lowered due to Council’s strong cash position. I support 2-hour free CBD parking, maximising benefits from Macquarie Point and better access to the Mountain. Let’s get back to local.
I have raised two boys as a single mother here and I’m deeply connected to the community that make our city special. Local Government is above vested interests, and divisive conversations. I will bring integrity, responsibility and genuine commitment to the privilege of the position. I will advocate for transparent consultative decision-making to create a future Hobart we can be proud of. I have worked in leadership roles, alongside people with diverse views and experiences, I understand how to engage respectfully and will remain focused on achieving positive community outcomes for Hobart.
Hobart can be Australia's most liveable small city: confident, connected & future ready, while retaining the character & natural beauty we love. I'm Ryan, a West Hobart dad, paramedic & City Councillor. Together, we can build a city where children flourish, people have homes, businesses thrive & creativity shines. I'll fight for safer streets, stronger communities, more homes, better transport & protection of the places that make Hobart special. As Lord Mayor, I will listen, bring us together & lead with energy, integrity & hope. We must turn our shared ideas into a better future for all.
I’m your Greens candidate for Councillor & Deputy Lord Mayor. As an educator and community leader, I’ve spent the past eight years working for a Hobart that is fairer, greener and more liveable. I champion housing affordability, sustainable transport, responsible planning and environmental protection. Now, more than ever, Hobart needs bold, brave leadership that puts people and our future first. I’m ready to keep fighting for a city where everyone belongs, everyone is valued, and everyone can thrive.
I’m a Tasmanian tour guide, Greens candidate, and a passionate advocate for transportation. Hobart should be a city our young people can build a life in; with real opportunities for family, better public transport, and cost of living relief. Having lived and worked in Europe for a decade, I’ve seen cities respond to climate change in ways that create opportunities. I want to invest in solutions which support our communities and stimulate growth in our local businesses - like light rail between Macquarie Point and Claremont! Vote for me and the other Greens to help make that vision a reality.
As an ex-Clarence City Alderman, Chair of PCYC Tasmania, I have proven governance, financial experience and a community at heart – I will be hitting the ground running revitalizing our city, championing strong support for: businesses; active transport; a safe clean city accessible for all abilities; rational pragmatic decision-making; a collegial attitude and no-nonsense debating. I am a problem-solver who is driven to act. I am honest, kind and caring; your concerns will become mine. Let’s build an exciting future together through strong leadership and vision- dedicated to serve Vote 1Thurley
Susan is driven by her love for this city and her dedication to community equity and connection. An advocate for housing of all types for people at every age and stage, walkable streets, sustainable environmental practice and our creative industries she believes Hobart needs a positive, progressive approach. A celebrant, writer and mediator with a background in communications, advocacy and community service she aims to enhance Hobart’s quality of life through developing and nurturing neighbourhoods, improved recreational spaces and support for small business, start-ups and creative industries.
Put Hobart first. I'm a policy adviser in small business, community and multicultural affairs. I'll fight for better parking and access, faster housing and business approvals, reliable basic services and careful spending to ease pressure on rates. I'll push to remove the Collins Street bike lanes and cut red tape and duplication. I'll work to keep Hobart moving through stadium construction and ready for opening day. I'll advocate a weekend Hobart Free Market with stalls at $10 a day, helping locals earn, trade and buy direct. Vote 1 David Wan. davidwanhobart.au
I am a long-time Hobart resident, educated at UTAS, with senior leadership experience in infrastructure, marine science and energy. I will bring maturity, practical decision-making and a commitment to financial restraint, recognising that Hobart ratepayers already pay the highest council rates in Tasmania. By focusing on core council responsibilities, we can reduce costs and limit rate rises. Council must support investment, jobs, housing and tourism, including maximising the benefits of the Macquarie Point Stadium. Let's bring Hobart forward together.
Neither a politician nor a bureaucrat, I come with no ideology and no political affiliations beyond the firm belief that we must run Hobart for Hobartians. Not for the advantage of any political party, industry or lobby group, but for you the people who live in this city - and not for those people who don’t. I believe our Council should be free of party politics and ideology. To the traditional three Rs of local government: rates, roads, and rubbish, I would add a vital fourth - reason. Every issue should be reasonably considered by simply asking “Is it in the interests of our people?”
Marti Zucco, Putting Hobart First. I have the experience, passion & proven track record of standing up for Hobartians. I seek your support for Lord Mayor & Alderman to bring practical leadership & common sense back to Council. My priorities are capped & affordable rates, better roads & footpaths, improved traffic flow, free parking, rethinking bikeways & scramble crossings, faster planning to deliver more housing. Cutting waste supporting local business & our neglected CBD, listening to all residents & ratepayers. Getting Council Back to Basics. Vote 1, Marti Zucco for Lord Mayor & Alderman
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