Local government elections 2026


Local government election tagline - Make your mark. Vote local.

In 2026, elections will be conducted in all 29 of Tasmania's local government areas. This includes the election of councillors, a mayor and a deputy mayor for each council to serve a four-year term of office.  

Local government elections are conducted by postal ballot and voting is compulsory for all electors on the State roll.

Election timetable

9 am 
Monday 7 September

Nominations open

6 pm 
Thursday 10 September

Enrolment closes

12 noon 
Monday 21 September

Nominations close

12 noon 
Tuesday 22 September

Nominations announced

From 
Monday 5 October

Ballot packs delivered by post

2 pm 
Tuesday 27 October

Close of poll

From 9 am 
Wednesday 28 October

Counting commences

Standing as a candidate?

If you wish to stand as a candidate, nominations will open at 9 am on Monday 7 September 2026, and close at 12 noon on Monday 21 September 2026.

Information is available to support candidates and provide guidance on the rules that must be followed during the election period.

The information page includes the candidate handbook, relevant forms, and the new candidate statement and photograph requirements.

Who is eligible to vote?

Everyone on the State roll is automatically enrolled and required to vote in local government elections.

Moved recently? Update your details with the Australian Electoral Commission. Rolls will close at 6pm Thursday 10 September 2026.

Other people who own or occupy land in the municipal area or are the nominated representatives of a corporate body which owns or occupies land in the municipal area, may also be eligible to enrol, but must lodge an application with the General Manager.

Reporting of electoral advertising

Candidates, printers, publishers and broadcasters are required to submit an electoral advertising return to the TEC, reporting particulars of election-related advertising.

This information must be returned no later than 45 days after the day on which the certificate of election is issued.

Further information is available for candidates, printers, publishers and broadcasters.