2022 Media Statements

Whitsunday Division 2 by-election declared 

14 December 2022 

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Clay Bauman the successful candidate at the Whitsunday Regional Council Division 2 by-election.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Mr Bauman received over 50 per cent of the votes remaining in the count following the distribution of preferences to win the seat from Andrew Camm by just 20 votes in a tight race.

“This by-election was conducted using the optional preferential voting system and we know the distribution of preferences can often have a significant impact on election outcomes,” Mr Vidgen said.

“While Mr Baumann held a lead of 193 votes after the first preference count, the distribution of preferences significantly narrowed the margin.”

“This meant it became a much closer race, and we had to wait for the return of postal votes on Tuesday 13 December before we could determine the winner,” he said.

Nominations were open from the Notice of Election on Friday 4 November until Monday 14 November 2022, with four candidates putting up their hands to represent their community.

The by-election was triggered following the resignation of Councillor Al Grundy on 14 October 2022.

The Whitsunday regional Council Division 2 by-election, including all the results, is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election declared

12 December 2022 

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Hezron Murgha the successful candidate at the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Mr Murgha received 36 per cent of the votes with Michael Sands receiving 27 per cent, Errol (Mala) Neal receiving 19 percent and Gregory Fourmile 16 per cent.

“The official election day was Saturday 10 November and while there are a small number of outstanding postal and in person declaration votes, the remaining postal votes cannot change the result,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Nevertheless, any of those votes received which have been formally cast will be added to the votes received by the relevant candidate.”

Mr Vidgen said 99 per cent of the ballot papers counted were formal or valid, which was a pleasing result, but that the low voter turnout was disappointing.

“Of the 1,399 enrolled electors in Yarrabah, only 658 voted in the by-election,” he said.

“137 Yarrabah residents cast their votes during the early voting period, with the remainder choosing to vote on election day.”

Nominations were open from the Notice of Election on Friday 11 November until Monday 21 November.

Mr Vidgen said the by-election was triggered by the resignation of Councillor David Baird on 9 November 2022.

The Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election information, including all the results, is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Count begins in Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election

10 December 2022 

Polls have closed and the count is underway to determine the next councillor for the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said staff were counting the votes taken on election day, during early voting, and the postal votes that had been returned so far.

Assistant Electoral Commissioner Wade Lewis said even though polling was over, it could take a few days before the outcome was known.

“The timing of the result all depends on how close the contest is. If it is a tight race, we might be waiting for people to return their postal votes before there is a clear result,” he said.

“Postal votes can be returned up to ten days after polling day, but we encourage any electors who have opted to vote by post to return their ballot paper as soon as possible.”

Postal votes are due back to the ECQ by 5pm on 20 December 2022.

Keep up to date with the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Last days to vote in Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election

8 December 2022 

Time is running out for people enrolled in the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council area to cast their vote to elect a new councillor, with only one day of early voting to go before election day on Saturday 10 December.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed that many of the 1,400 enrolled residents in the community are yet to cast their vote.

Assistant Commissioner Wade Lewis urged Yarrabah residents to plan ahead to make sure they vote before the close of polls on Saturday.

“There’s still an opportunity to vote before election day, if you are going to be away on the weekend or have other commitments,” he said.

“I encourage all electors to plan ahead to make sure you can vote in time and have your say about who you want to represent your local community.

“While there are four candidates contesting this by-election, you need to make sure you mark at least one of the boxes alongside the candidate of your choice on your ballot paper to ensure your vote counts,” Mr Lewis said.

The early voting centre is open tomorrow, Friday 9 December from 10am until 6pm at the Council Chambers at 56 Sawmill Road, Yarrabah. People opting to vote on election day will need to go to the Community Hall on Beach Road on Saturday, between 8am and 6pm.

Mr Lewis reminded people enrolled to vote in this by-election that voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Keep up to date with the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election on the ECQ website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Submissions are in for review of Council classification in Moreton Bay 

6 December 2022 

People in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area have had their say on the review of their divisional arrangements, with 103 written submissions received during the consultation period.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) was asked by the Minister responsible for Local Government in September to assess a proposal from the Moreton Bay Regional Council to change the classification of their council from a regional to a city council.

As part of this review, written submissions were invited from residents from 14-28 November 2022.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the feedback received would inform the Change Commission’s assessment.

“I want to thank those Moreton Bay residents who took the time to complete a submission and provide their feedback,” Mr Vidgen said.

“We know people feel very strongly about the arrangements in their local area and local knowledge is always valued during these review processes.

“The large number of submissions we received reflects the high level of interest and investment people have in their local community.”

“The consideration of submissions is just one part of the assessment the Change Commission will make,” he said.

Submissions received during the consultation period, along with the Moreton Bay Regional Council’s submission on the review are available on the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) website.

The final report is expected to be available in April 2023.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Learn more about the Change Commission’s role on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Submissions are in for review of divisional arrangements in Ipswich 

5 December 2022 

People in the Ipswich City Council area have had their say on the review of their divisional arrangements, with 21 written submissions received.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) was asked by the Minister responsible for Local Government to conduct a mid-term review of the Ipswich City Council’s current multi-member divisional arrangements in July this year.

As part of this review, written submissions were invited from residents from 14-28 November 2022.

Currently, the Ipswich City Council is divided into four multi-member divisions, with two councillors representing each division, plus a mayor.

The current and anticipated level of growth in the Ipswich region is a key consideration in ensuring electoral arrangements in the region are meeting the needs and expectations of residents.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the feedback received would be an important part of the Change Commission’s assessment.

“I want to thank those Ipswich residents who took the time to complete a submission and provide their feedback,” Mr Vidgen said.

“We know people feel very strongly about the arrangements and boundaries in their local area and local knowledge is always valued during these review processes.

“The consideration of submissions is just one part of the assessment the Change Commission will make,” he said.

Submissions received during the consultation period, along with the Ipswich City Council’s submission on the review are available on the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) website.

The final report is expected to be available in early 2023.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Learn more about the Change Commission’s role on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Count continues for next Whitsunday Division 2 Councillor 

5 December 2022 

Whitsunday Regional Council’s newest Councillor may not be known until next week as counting continues following Saturday’s Division 2 by-election.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed counting began as soon as polls closed at 6pm on Saturday 3 December and outstanding postal votes could sway the outcome.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the race was too tight to call.

“A declaration of a successful candidate can only be made when the outcome is certain,” he said.

“As the voting system is Optional Preferential, preferences need to be distributed and we will need to wait for further postal votes which can be returned up until 13 December.”

“While the leading candidate is currently ahead on first preference votes, this can, and often does, change when preferences are distributed,” Mr Vidgen said.

There is further information on how Optional Preferential Voting works and the process for preference distribution here.

Of the 4,155 enrolled electors in Division 2, there were:

• 1606 early voters (in-person)
• 77 telephone voters
• 703 who voted at the polling booth on election day, and
• 93 postal votes which have been returned so far.

Postal votes must be returned to ECQ by 5pm on13 December 2022 for them to be counted.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Count begins for Whitsunday Division 2 by-election 

3 December 2022 

Polls have closed and the count is underway to determine the next Division 2 councillor for the Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said staff were counting the votes taken on election day, during early voting, telephone voting and the postal votes that had been returned so far.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said even though polling was over, it could take a few days before the outcome was known.

“The timing of the result all depends on how close the contest is. If it is a tight race, we might be waiting for people to return their postal votes and conduct a full preference count before there is a clear result,” he said.

“Postal votes can be returned up to ten days after polling day, but we encourage any electors who have opted to vote by post to return their ballot paper as soon as possible.”

Postal votes are due back to the ECQ by 6pm on 13 December 2022.

Keep up to date with Whitsunday Regional Council Division 2 by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Last days to vote in Whitsunday Division 2 by-election 

2 December 2022 

Time is running out for people enrolled in Division 2 of the Whitsunday Regional Council to cast their vote to elect a new councillor, with the polls closing at 6pm tomorrow. The by-election was called on 4 November 2022 following the resignation of Al Grundy.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed that many of the 4,155 enrolled residents in Division 2 have chosen to cast their votes early, taking advantage of the early polling centre to have their say.

Almost 32 per cent of enrolled electors have already voted, as of last night.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen reminded voters that there’s still an opportunity to vote early if they can’t make it along to the polling place on election day.

“Providing flexibility to people to vote in the way that suits them best is important, and that’s reflected in the early voting results in this by-election,” he said.

“Now’s the time to make sure you’ve planned ahead about when you’re going to vote so that you can have your say about who you want to represent your local community.

“While there are four candidates contesting this by-election, you need to make sure you mark at least one of the boxes alongside the candidate of your choice on your ballot paper to ensure your vote counts,” Mr Vidgen said.

The early voting centre is open today, Friday 2 December from 9am until 6pm at Shop 15, Whitsundays Shopping Centre, 226 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale. Electors can also vote at the same location on election day, Saturday 3 December, from 8am to 6pm.

Mr Vidgen reminded people enrolled to vote in Division 2 in this by-election that voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

After 6pm on 3 December, votes will be scrutinised and counted and the results published on the ECQ website. Results will be published progressively as postal votes are returned before the deadline of 5pm on 13 December 2022.

Keep up to date with the Whitsunday Regional Council Division 2 by-election on the ECQ website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election candidates announced 

21 November 2022 

Four candidates are in the running to be the next Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Councillor, with the vacancy created by the resignation of David Baird on 9 November 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said there was plenty of interest from candidates before today’s 12pm nomination deadline.

The candidates in ballot paper order are:

• Gregory Fourmile
• Errol (Mala) Neal
• Michael T Sands
• Hezron (Hezzy) Murgha

Assistant Electoral Commissioner Wade Lewis said it was good to see multiple candidates keen to represent their community ahead of the 10 December by-election.

“Now that electors know who is running, they can start to decide who they want as their new councillor and think about their plan for when they will cast their vote.

“If they can’t vote in person there’s still time to apply for a postal vote, with applications accepted up until 7pm on Monday 28 November.”

“You can apply online via the ECQ website or by phoning the ECQ on 1300 881 665.”

“We want to make voting as easy as possible for Yarrabah’s 1,400 enrolled electors, so early voting as well as election day voting will be available, Mr Lewis said.

Three days of early voting will be available from the Council Chambers at 56 Sawmill Road, Yarrabah from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 December and from 10am to 6pm on Friday 9 December 2022.

Electors can also vote on election day on 10 December 2022 at the Community Hall, Beach Street Yarrabah from 8am to 6pm.

Mr Lewis reminded people in the Yarrabah region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Diamantina Shire Council by-election declared

16 November 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Sharon Purcell and Kerry Morton the successful candidates at the Diamantina Shire Council councillor by-election.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Sharon Purcell received 20 per cent of the votes and Kerry Morton 16 per cent in the by-election, which was conducted by full postal ballot.

“The official election day was 5 November and electors then had ten days to return their postal votes so they could be added to the count,” Mr Vidgen said.

“When that deadline passed yesterday, on Wednesday 15 November, Sharon Purcell was clearly in the lead, with a number of candidates in a close race for the second councillor position.”

Mr Vidgen said all votes received at the Diamantina Shire by-election were formal or valid, which was an outstanding result.

“There are a number of specific steps electors need to take when voting by postal ballot, so it is impressive to see that 100 per cent of the votes returned were formal,” he said.

“Diamantina Shire residents have done a great job of making sure their votes counted at this by-election.”

Nominations were open from the Notice of Election on Friday 30 September until Wednesday 10 October 2022, with seven candidates putting up their hands to represent their community.

Mr Vidgen said the by-election was triggered following the resignations of Councillors Don Raymont and Doug Cooms on 1 August 2022 and 8 September 2022 respectively.

The Diamantina Shire Council by-election information, including all the results, is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Whitsunday Division 2 by-election candidates announced 

14 November 2022 

Four candidates are in the running to be the next Division 2 Councillor for the Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said there was plenty of interest from candidates before today’s 12pm nomination deadline.

The candidates in ballot paper order are:

• Daniel Popovich
• Christopher Harvey
• Andrew Camm
• Clay Bauman

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it was good to see candidates keen to represent their community ahead of the 3 December by-election.

“Now that electors know who is running, they can start to decide who they want as their new councillor and think about their plan for when they will cast their vote.

“If they can’t vote in person there’s still time to apply for a postal vote, and telephone voting is available to people who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate because of COVID-19.”

“There are plenty of voting options for the 4,000 enrolled voters in the division, Mr Vidgen said.

The early voting polling booth at Shop 15, Whitsundays Shopping Centre, 226 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale will be open from 9am until 5pm daily from Monday 28 November to Thursday 1 December and will also be open until 6pm on Friday 2 December.

Electors can also vote at this location on election day on 3 December 2022 from 8am to 6pm.

Postal vote applications are open until 7pm on 21 November 2022. You can apply online via the ECQ website or phone the ECQ on 1300 881 665.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Whitsunday Regional Council Division 2 by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Consultation on Council classification begins for Moreton Bay residents 

14 November 2022 

People in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area are being asked to have their say on a proposal to change the classification of their council from a regional to a city council.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) has been asked by the Minister responsible for Local Government to assess the proposal and, as part of the process, the views of Moreton Bay residents will be considered via public submissions.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said public feedback would be an important part of the Change Commission’s assessment.

“Local knowledge can be really helpful, and we know a lot of people feel strongly about the arrangements and boundaries in their local area,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Residents can learn more about the proposal by reading the submission from Moreton Bay Regional Council which is on the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) website.

“Participation is voluntary however we strongly encourage those who want to have a say to make a written submission.”

Public submissions open at 9am on Monday 14 November and close at 5pm on 28 November 2022.

Further details about how to submit either online or by post is available on the ECQ website.

Submissions will be published on this website once they are reviewed.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Learn more about the Change Commission’s role on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665

Consultation on divisional arrangements begins for Ipswich residents 

14 November 2022 

People in the Ipswich City Council area are being asked to have their say on a review of its divisional arrangements.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) has been asked by the Minister responsible for Local Government to conduct a mid-term review of the Ipswich City Council’s current multi-member divisional arrangements, which will include gauging the views of residents.

Currently, the Ipswich City Council is divided into four multi-member divisions, with two councillors representing each division, plus a mayor.

The current and anticipated level of growth in the Ipswich region, is a key consideration in ensuring electoral arrangements in the region are meeting the needs and expectations of residents.

The Change Commission will be accepting written submissions from anyone who wants to have their say about the arrangements.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said public feedback would be an important part of the Change Commission’s assessment.

“Local knowledge can be really helpful, and we know a lot of people feel strongly about the arrangements and boundaries in their local area,” Mr Vidgen said.

“People can provide their view or feedback on their current experience with the existing arrangements as well as the number of councillors representing the Ipswich community.

“The Ipswich City Council has made a submission on the review which is available on the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) website.

“Participation is voluntary however we strongly encourage those who want to have a say to make a written submission.”

Public submissions open at 9am on Monday 14 November and close at 5pm on 28 November 2022.

Further details about how to submit either online or by post is available on the ECQ website.

Submissions will be published on this website once they are reviewed.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Learn more about the Change Commission’s role on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election announced for 10 December 2022

11 November 2022

A by-election to elect a Councillor for the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council will be held on Saturday 10 December 2022, following the resignation of Councillor David Baird on 9 November 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed the date and Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for the new councillor position were now open for anyone wanting to represent their community.

“Nominations close at 12 noon on Monday 21 November 2022 and there are several important steps which must be undertaken, so I urge anyone interested to do this as soon as possible,” Mr Vidgen said.

Potential candidates must make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.

All the information is on the Local Government Election Participants page of the ECQ’s website.

The by-election will be delivered as an attendance ballot, and Mr Vidgen said there would be several options for Yarrabah’s 1,400 electors to cast their vote.

“If you can’t make it on polling day, there will be three days of early voting and postal voting available,” he said.

“We want to make voting as quick and easy as possible for everyone enrolled in the Yarrabah community.”

The by-election officially begins today, following the issuing of the notice of election.

Postal vote applications will close at 7pm on Monday 28 November 2022.

Early voting will be between 10am and 2pm on Wednesday 7 December and Thursday 8 December and from 10am to 6pm on Friday 9 December at the Council Chambers, 56 Sawmill Road, Yarrabah.

On election day, electors can cast their vote at the Community Hall, Beach Street, Yarrabah.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council area that voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

“Voting is one of our most important duties in a democracy, and I remind electors enrolling and voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland.”

Mr Vidgen said the voting system for the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election is first-past-the-post.

“This means electors only need to number one box on their ballot paper, as there is one candidate to be elected.”

Visit the ECQ’s website to stay up-to-date with the Yarrabah by-election.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

KEY DATES

Notice of election Friday 11 November 2022

Candidate nominations open Friday 11 November 2022

Close of roll Thursday 17 November 2022 at 5pm

Close of nominations Monday 21 November 2022 at noon

Ballot paper order draw Monday 21 November 2022 at 2:30pm

Postal vote applications close Monday 28 November 2022 at 7pm

Postal voting Monday 21 December to Saturday 10 December 2022

Early voting 10am to 5pm, 7-8 December and 10am to 6pm on 9 December 2022

Election day 8am to 6pm, Saturday 10 December 2022

All voting including postal voting, must be completed by 6pm on election day, 10 December 2022

Last day for return of postal votes tuesday 20 December 2022 at 5pm

Last days to vote in Diamantina by-election 

04 November 2022 

Time is running out for people in the Central-West Queensland electorate of Diamantina to complete and return their postal votes to elect the Shire Council’s two newest councillors.

The by-election is a full postal ballot, with residents voting for two councillors following the resignations of Councillors Doug Cooms and Don Rayment.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed that the 160 enrolled residents in Diamantina have been mailed their voting materials, with more than 100 votes already returned.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen reminded voters that postal votes needed to be completed by 6pm on 5 November 2022.

“If you haven’t yet returned your vote, it’s important that the ECQ receives it by 5pm on Tuesday 15 November to ensure it counts at this election,” he said.

“With two positions open, you’ll also need to make sure you number at least two boxes on your ballot paper.

“You should use the reply-paid envelope to send your ballot paper back, or you can drop it off at Diamantina Shire Council chambers,” Mr Vidgen said.

“If you haven’t received your ballot paper or you’ve received it, but it’s been damaged or you’ve lost it, you can also ask for a replacement – but you’ll need to do this in person with the Returning Officer before 6pm on polling day tomorrow.”

Completed postal votes can be dropped off at Diamantina Shire Council Chambers, 17 Herbert Street, Bedourie, during office hours, or on Saturday 5 November between 8am and 6pm.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Diamantina council region voting was compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

After 6pm on 5 November, all postal votes to hand will be scrutinised prior to being counted and the results published on the ECQ website. Results will be published progressively as postal votes are returned before the deadline on 15 November 2022.

Keep up to date with the Diamantina Shire Council by-election on the ECQ website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Whitsunday by-election announced for 3 December 2022 

4 November 2022 

A by-election to elect a Division 2 councillor for Whitsunday Regional Council will be held on 3 December 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed the date and Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for the new councillor position were now open for anyone wanting to represent their community.

“Nominations close at 12 noon on 14 November 2022 and there are several important steps which must be undertaken, so I urge anyone interested to do this as soon as possible,” Mr Vidgen said.

Potential candidates must make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.

All the information is on the Election Participants page of ECQ’s website.

The by-election will be delivered as an attendance ballot to provide additional options for voters, after consideration of the Whitsunday Regional Council’s application for a full postal ballot.

Mr Vidgen said there would be several options for people to cast their vote in the upcoming by-election.

“If you can’t make it on polling day, there will be one week of early voting and postal voting available,” he said.

“For people who meet the eligibility criteria, like those who have tested positive to COVID-19 and anyone interstate or overseas, telephone voting is also an option.

“We want to make voting as quick and easy as possible for everyone enrolled to vote in this by-election.”

The by-election officially begins today, following the issuing of the notice of election.

Postal vote applications also open on Friday and close at 7pm on 21 November 2022.

Early voting starts at 9am on 28 November 2022 and finishes at 6pm on 2 December 2022 at Shop 15, Whitsundays Shopping Centre, 226 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale.

On election day there will also be a polling booth located at Whitsunday Christian College, 26 Paluma Road, Cannonvale.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details about the Whitsunday by-election will be available on ECQ’s website after the notice of election is issued.

To enrol to vote, check your enrolment or update your details, go to the Australian Electoral Commission’s website.

This by-election was called following the resignation of Councillor Al Grundy on Friday 14 October 2022.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Balonne by-election declared: Alexander Benn elected unopposed

3 November 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said nominations closed at midday on Wednesday 2 November 2022 for the Balonne Shire Council by-election, with Alexander Benn the only candidate to nominate.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said in accordance with the Local Government Electoral Act, the election is deemed as uncontested, and Alexander Benn is declared elected unopposed.

Nominations were open from the Notice of Election on Monday 24 October until 12pm yesterday, Wednesday 2 November.

Mr Vidgen said the by-election was triggered following the resignation of Councillor Ian Todd on 15 September 2022.

The Balonne Shire Council by-election information page is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Boundary review report complete

31 October 2022

A recommendation to leave three suburbs within Livingstone Shire Council (LSC) and not transfer them to neighbouring Rockhampton Regional Council (RRC) has been delivered to the Minister for Local Government.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) has recommended to keep Glenlee, Rockyview and Glendale in LSC following an extensive review process that included a financial assessment and a community consultation period in June and July 2022.

Local Government Change Commissioner Pat Vidgen said they could not have come to this decision without the local community’s input.

“I want to thank each and every one of you who took part in our voluntary survey, who prepared written submissions and put forward your views about whether you thought the suburbs should stay or move council boundaries,” he said.

“I would also like to thank both councils for their input and cooperation throughout the review process. Each council put forward a range of genuinely held views from their constituents that were critical for the Change Commission to consider.

“Given the number and diversity of submissions for and against, and coupled with the results of the voluntary survey, our assessment was a complex exercise.

“The Change Commission weighed up arguments around communities of interest, financial impacts, growth projections and planning implications. On balance, it was recommended that there be no change to the boundary, but future growth be managed cooperatively by both councils through established planning mechanisms.

“We know there are strongly held views in the community on this issue and didn’t make this recommendation lightly.”

In June 2022, a voluntary survey was mailed to around 85,500 people enrolled to vote in LSC and RRC. These residents were then invited to submit the voluntary boundary review survey and written submissions were also encouraged from anyone interested in the proposed change.

You can read the External Boundary Review 2022 Final Report on the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s website.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister responsible for Local Government.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Balonne by-election announced for 26 November 2022

24 October 2022

A by-election to elect a councillor for Balonne Shire Council will be held on 26 November 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed it would be a full postal ballot for around 3,000 residents enrolled in the South-West Queensland community.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for the new councillor position were now open and he encouraged anyone wanting to represent their community to nominate before 12pm on 2 November 2022.

“There are several important steps which must be undertaken when nominating, so I urge anyone interested to do this as soon as possible,” Mr Vidgen said.

Potential candidates must make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.

All the information is on the Election Participants page of ECQ’s website.

Mr Vidgen said voters would be sent postal vote materials in the mail, so enrolment was crucial.

If you have changed your address or are enrolling for the first time you must do this by 5pm on 31 October 2022 to vote in this by-election.

“Postal votes will be sent shortly after the close of nominations and the draw for ballot paper order is finalised. We encourage everyone to keep an eye out for them in the mail,” Mr Vidgen said.

To enrol to vote, check your enrolment or update your details, go to the Australian Electoral Commission’s website.

This by-election was called following the resignation of Councillor Ian Todd on 15 September 2022.

Keep up to date with the Balonne Shire Council by-election on ECQ’s website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Vote now in Diamantina by-election

24 October 2022

Ballot papers should have landed in letterboxes and Diamantina residents are encouraged to vote now ahead of polling day on 5 November 2022.

The Diamantina Shire Council by-election is a full postal ballot, with residents voting for two councillors following the resignations of Deputy Mayor Doug Cooms and Councillor Don Rayment.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen encouraged voters to return their ballot papers as soon as they can.

“They should use the reply-paid envelope to send their ballot paper back, or they can drop it off at Diamantina Shire Council chambers,” Mr Vidgen said.

“If you haven’t received your ballot paper or you received it but it’s been damaged or you lost it, you can also ask for a replacement.”

Completed postal votes can be dropped off at Diamantina Shire Council Chambers, 17 Herbert Street, Bedourie, during office hours.

Residents must complete their vote by 6pm on 5 November 2022 and ECQ must receive all votes by 15 November 2022 for them to be counted.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Diamantina council region voting was compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Diamantina Shire Council by-election can be found on the ECQ website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

ECQ settles prohibited donors case

17 October 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) and Palmer Leisure Australia (PLA) Pty Ltd have settled a case out of court, almost two years after legal proceedings began.

In December 2020 ECQ sought to clarify the meaning of property developer, as defined by section 273(2)(a) of the Electoral Act 1992.

It also sought clarification on whether PLA fell within that definition even though it had only made one relevant planning application relating to the Robina golf course which though rejected, was being appealed.

In August 2022 the Supreme Court of Queensland handed down a judgement which supported ECQ’s view that a corporation could be a property developer even if it had only made one development application.

After the judgment, PLA withdrew its planning appeal.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said he was happy with both outcomes, as far as this litigation was concerned.

“Palmer Leisure Australia’s circumstances have changed since proceedings began, with the planning development being withdrawn so there is no ongoing planning application,” he said.

“And in doing this, we are satisfied based on PLA’s present operations that it would not breach the Electoral Act were it to make a political donation.

“The previous judgement of the court has provided ECQ with the certainty required to continue to administer and enforce those provisions of the Electoral Act.

“As a result, regulated entities are reminded to review guidance material on ECQ’s website and contact ECQ to discuss individual circumstances.”

Both parties will bear their own costs.

Background

This case is based on Palmer Leisure making six monetary gifts to Palmer’s United Australia Party between 21 August 2020 and 9 October 2020 – in the lead-up to the Queensland state election on 31 October 2020, which it since claimed were returned by the Party.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Diamantina by-election candidates announced

10 October 2022

Seven candidates are in the running for two councillor positions at Diamantina Shire Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced the candidates following today’s 12pm nomination deadline.

The candidates in ballot paper order are:

• Ray Degoumois
• Damien Watson
• Donna Gilby
• Jim Smith
• Damian Clarke
• Kerry Morton
• Sharon Pursell

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there was a lot of interest from candidates who wanted to represent their community ahead of the by-election on 5 November 2022.

“Now the Diamantina community knows who is running, they can decide who they want in not one, but two councillor positions,” Mr Vidgen said.

“This election is a full postal ballot which means ballot papers should start arriving in the mail soon.

“This means you must select at least two candidates on your ballot paper, starting with 1 (one) for your preferred candidate.

“We encourage Diamantina voters to read and follow all the instructions on their postal declaration and complete their ballot paper before returning it in the reply-paid envelope provided as soon as possible.”

Postal votes must be completed before 6pm on 5 November 2022 and received by ECQ by 5pm on 15 November 2022.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Diamantina council region voting was compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Diamantina Shire Council by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Queensland electoral data safe

6 October 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland said there is no information to suggest there has been any breach of Queensland electoral data.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said data security is of the utmost importance to the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) and it is continuing to take all action necessary to protect the integrity of its Election Management System (EMS).

“This includes consulting with third-party cyber security experts,” Mr Vidgen said.

“In addition to usual ongoing assurance actions, ECQ has received written confirmation from Konnech Australia that customer data is currently, and always has been, stored in the ECQ-nominated Microsoft Azure secure environment in Australia.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ has taken immediate action to review current security measures, access controls and contractual arrangements and to seek expert advice about whether there are any additional risk mitigations that should be implemented.

The EMS is an administrative system that supports the processes required to conduct electoral events – it does not conduct electronic voting, count votes, nor determine election outcomes.

There have been no known data breaches of Queensland electoral data since ECQ began using the EMS in 2020.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Diamantina by-election called for 5 November 2022

30 September 2022

A by-election to fill two councillor vacancies for Diamantina Shire Council will be held on 5 November 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed it will be a full postal ballot for the 153 residents enrolled in the Central West Queensland community.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for the two positions were now open and those interested in representing their community had until 12pm on 10 October 2022 to nominate.

“There are several important steps which must be undertaken when nominating, so I urge anyone interested to do this as soon as possible,” Mr Vidgen said.

Potential candidates must make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free mandatory online training through the Department of State

Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.

All the information is on the Election Participants page of ECQ’s website.

Mr Vidgen said electors would be sent postal vote materials in the mail so enrolment was crucial.

“If you have changed your address or are enrolling for the first time you must do this by 5pm on 5 October 2022 to be able to vote in this by-election,” he said.

“Postal votes will be sent next week following the close of nominations provided more than two nominations are received, so keep an eye out in the mail,” Mr Vidgen said.

To enrol to vote, check your enrolment or update your details, go to the Australian Electoral Commission’s website.

This by-election was called following the resignations of Deputy Mayor Doug Cooms and Councillor Don Rayment.

Keep up to date with the Diamantina Shire Council by-election on the ECQ website or phone 1300 881 665.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Julie Hall new Whitsunday Mayor

25 August 2022

Julie Hall is the next Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland declared the result this morning with Commissioner Pat Vidgen saying preferences determined the outcome.

“We can only declare the result when the outcome is certain,” he said.

“In close contests like this by-election, a declaration must wait until the deadline for the return of postal votes has passed so preferences from all available ballot papers can be allocated.

“That deadline was 5pm Tuesday and our teams have been counting and re-checking since the close of polls on election day.

“The distribution of preferences happened yesterday when all available votes were to hand.

“When preferential voting is used, the allocation of preferences can affect the outcome, as it clearly has in this by-election.”

Mr Vidgen said he knew many were eagerly awaiting the results and the counting was conducted as quickly as possible, in accordance with legislative requirements.

“It would not have been possible for the commission to declare the result sooner than it has,” he said.

“It has been a close race for the council’s top job.”

Of the almost 23,600 enrolled voters in the Whitsunday Regional Council area, more than 11,000 voted early, more than 390 voted by telephone, around 3,500 voted at an election day polling booth, and more than 1,300 postal votes were returned by the deadline of 5pm on 23 August 2022.

Further information on how optional preferential voting works and the process for preference distribution is available here (select ‘optional preferential voting’ tab).

Election day was held on Saturday 13 August 2022.

See the full Whitsunday Mayoral by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Tight contest for next Whitsunday Mayor

24 August 2022

The vote count continues with a tight contest underway for the next Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland is completing the allocation of preferences and Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the result should be declared tomorrow.

“We can only declare the election when the outcome is certain,” he said.

“The official distribution of preferences has been ongoing all day today and currently, the outcome remains unclear.

“With the vote so close, the outcome of the election will be determined by the final distribution of preferences,” he said.

Of the almost 23,600 enrolled voters in the Whitsunday Regional Council area, more than 11,000 voted early, more than 390 voted by telephone, around 3,500 voted at an election day polling booth, and more than 1,300 postal votes were returned by the deadline of 5pm on 23 August 2022.

Election day was held on Saturday,13 August 2022.

The Whitsunday Mayoral by-election results will be available on the ECQ website when the final distribution of preferences is complete.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Electoral Commission of Queensland v Palmer Leisure Australia Pty ltd

18 August 2022

Today the Supreme Court of Queensland dismissed with costs an application brought by Palmer Leisure Australia Pty Ltd (PLA) which sought summary judgment against the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ).

The Court accepted the ECQ’s position regarding the interpretation of the applicable laws.

As the matter is still before the courts, the ECQ does not intend to comment further at this stage.

The judgment is available here: https://archive.sclqld.org.au/qjudgment/2022/QSC22-169.pdf

Count continues for next Whitsunday Mayor

15 August 2022

Whitsunday Regional Council’s new Mayor may not be known until next week as counting continues following Saturday’s by-election.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed counting began as soon as polls closed at 6pm on Saturday and outstanding postal votes could sway the outcome.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the race was too tight to call.

“Like all elections, we conducted a preliminary count onsite on Saturday night and then an official, or check count, on Sunday,” he said.

“We have counted all ordinary votes and postal votes we have received and we are now waiting on further postal votes as well as scrutiny of declaration votes made at polling venues.

“As they are accepted, they will be progressively added to the count.

“We can’t begin preference distribution until we are certain of the order of the candidates based on their first preference votes and have all ballot papers in the count.”

There is further information on how optional preferential voting works and the process for preference distribution here.

Of the almost 23,600 enrolled electors in the Whitsunday Regional Council area, there were

• more than 11,000 early voters (in-person)
• more than 390 telephone voters
• about 3,500 who voted at an election day polling booth, and
• more than 1,200 postal votes returned so far.

Postal votes must be returned to ECQ by 5pm on 23 August 2022 for them to be counted.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Count begins for Whitsunday by-election

13 August 2022

Polls have closed and the preliminary count is underway to determine the next Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said staff are counting the first preferences from the votes taken on election day, during early voting, telephone voting, and the postal votes returned so far.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it could take some time before the outcome was known.

“Like all elections, this by-election will be declared when the outcome is certain,” he said.

“The timing of the result depends on the closeness of the contest. If the race is tight, we may need to wait until after the deadline for the return of postal votes for a clear result,” he said.

Of the almost 23,600 enrolled electors in the Whitsunday Regional Council area, there were:

• more than 11,000 early voters (in-person)
• more than 390 telephone voters
• about 3,500 who voted at an election day polling booth, and
• more than 1,000 postal votes returned so far.

The deadline for the return of postal votes is 5pm on 23 August 2022.

Keep up-to-date with Whitsunday by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Last days for early voting ahead of Saturday’s Whitsunday by-election

11 August 2022

Whitsunday voters have three days left to decide who will be the next Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said early voting had been popular since it began on 1 August 2022, with almost 8000 people casting their ballots ahead of Saturday’s by-election.

“Tomorrow is expected to be one of our busiest days for early voting so I encourage anyone wanting to vote to get in early,” Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said.

“There are early voting centres in Bowen, Cannonvale, Collinsville and Proserpine which are open today until 5pm and then tomorrow until 6pm, to cater for any last-minute voters.

“You can vote for one, some or all candidates on the ballot paper.”

Early voting centres are open today in Bowen, Cannonvale and Proserpine from 9am to 5pm and tomorrow until 6pm, while Collinsville is open from 1pm to 5pm today and until 6pm tomorrow at the following locations:

• Bowen PCYC, corner Hay St & Queens Rd, Bowen
• Whitsunday Shopping Centre, shop 150/226 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale
• Collinsville Community Centre,11 Conway Street, Collinsville
• Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge, 29 Chapman St, Proserpine

Telephone voting is available to those who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate due to a COVID-19 diagnosis or those who are interstate or overseas. To register for telephone voting phone 1300 912 782.

There are five polling booths open on Saturday from 8am to 6pm. To find your nearest one click here.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Whitsunday mayoral by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

One week left for Whitsunday early voting

8 August 2022

More than 4000 people have already taken advantage of early voting ahead of Saturday’s Whitsunday Mayoral by-election.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is expecting up to 12,000 people could cast their vote at one of four early voting polling booths in Bowen, Cannonvale, Collinsville and Proserpine.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Whitsunday early voters were making the most of early voting options, including voting in person at early voting centres, via postal votes or telephone voting for those

eligible.

“We still expect around 40 or 50 per cent of votes to be cast before Saturday’s polling day,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Today is also the first day of an early voting centre opening in Collinsville which will cater for any FIFO and mine workers who may not be able to vote on election day.”

So far 104 eligible voters have registered for a telephone vote (with 82 of them already voting) and ECQ received 1851 postal vote applications. Postal vote applications are now closed and anyone who has

applied should send their completed vote back as soon as possible.

“We know the last couple of days before election day are always busy so we encourage anyone interested in voting early, to get in early to avoid queues,” Mr Vidgen said.

Early voting booths open daily in Bowen, Cannonvale and Proserpine from 9am to 5pm, except Friday when they close at 6pm. Collinsville opens today until Thursday from 1pm to5pm and from 1pm to 6pm on Friday.

• Bowen PCYC, corner Hay St & Queens Rd, Bowen
• Whitsunday Shopping Centre, shop 150/226 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale
• Collinsville Community Centre,11 Conway Street, Collinsville
• Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge, 29 Chapman St, Proserpine

Voters have until midday on Saturday to register for telephone voting and can vote up until 6pm on election night. To register phone 1300 912 782.

Telephone voting is available to those who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate due to a COVID-19 diagnosis or those who are interstate or overseas.

There are five polling booths open from 8am to 6pm on election day, Saturday 13 August 2022. To find your nearest one click here.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Whitsunday mayoral by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Results are in for voluntary boundary review survey

5 August 2022

Survey results are in for a boundary review asking residents about a proposed boundary change between Livingstone Shire Council (LSC) and Rockhampton Regional Council (RRC).

Almost 55% of residents (15,026) who took part in the voluntary survey supported the suburbs of Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview staying in LSC, while more than 45% (12,493) wanted them moved to

neighbouring RRC.

Out of 85,501 enrolled residents in both council areas, 32.2% (27,519) took part in the voluntary survey, which was run by the Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission).

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said this was an extremely high participation rate for a voluntary survey.

“These numbers tell us those who live in these council areas feel very strongly about keeping or moving the three suburbs between councils,” he said.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey or provide a written submission.

“This is just one part of the assessment the Change Commission will evaluate.”

Voluntary survey results include:

• 1598 enrolled voters (or 62.5%) living in Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview took part in the survey
• 13,998 enrolled voters (or 24.5%) in RRC took part
• 11,923 enrolled voters (or 46.2%) in LSC, excluding those from Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview, took part

Residents in LSC and RRC were invited to submit the voluntary boundary review survey. Written submissions were also encouraged from anyone interested in the proposed change, with 99 submissions received.

The survey results and submissions will be available to view on the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s website.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister responsible for Local Government.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Early voting starts today for Whitsunday by-election

1 August 2022

People in the Whitsunday region can vote for their new mayor from today as early voting polling booths open ahead of election day on 13 August 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said more than 23,600 voters in the Whitsunday Regional Council area will have two weeks to cast their votes early at polling booths across three locations.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said a fourth early voting polling booth would open the week before the election to make voting as convenient as possible.

“Early voting accounted for up to 70 per cent of votes cast in the Whitsunday region during the last local government election in 2020,” he said.

“We expect good numbers again this year, with at least half the votes predicted to be cast during early voting.”

Early voting polling booths are open 9am-5pm daily from today until 11 August 2022 (excluding weekends) and 9am-6pm on 12 August 2022 at the following three locations:

• Bowen PCYC, corner Hay St & Queens Rd, Bowen
• Whitsunday Shopping Centre, shop 150/226 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale
• Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge, 29 Chapman St, Proserpine

The fourth early voting polling booth will be at the Collinsville Community Centre,11 Conway Street, Collinsville, and will open from 1-5pm on 8-11 August 2022 and 1-6pm on 12 August 2022

There will be five polling booths on election day on 13 August 2022.

Telephone voting registrations open 9am today until 12pm on 13 August 2022 and people who are eligible for the service can vote by phone up until 6pm on election day. To register call 1300 912 782.

“Telephone voting is there for people who need help to vote for a range of reasons like isolating with COVID-19 or due to an impairment like blindness, low vision or mobility issues,” Mr Vidgen said.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Whitsunday mayoral by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Whitsunday by-election candidates announced

25 July 2022

Six candidates are in the running to be the next mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said there was a lot of interest from candidates before today’s 12pm nomination deadline.

The candidates in ballot paper order are:

• Michael Brunker
• Jan Clifford
• Al Grundy
• Peter J Hood
• Philip Batty
• Julie Hall

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it was good to see candidates keen to represent their community ahead of the by-election on 13 August 2022.

“Now we know who is running, voters can start to decide who they want as mayor and they can vote as early as next week at one of the four early voting polling booths,” Mr Vidgen said.

“There are plenty of voting options for the more than 23,600 enrolled voters in the Whitsunday council region.

“If they can’t vote in person there’s still time to apply for a postal vote, and telephone voting is available to people who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate because of COVID-19.”

Early voting polling booths are open 9am-5pm daily from 1 to 11 August 2022 (excluding weekends) and 9am-6pm on 12 August 2022 at the following locations:

• Bowen PCYC, corner Hay St & Queens Rd, Bowen
• Whitsunday Shopping Centre, shop 150/226 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale
• Collinsville Community Centre,11 Conway Street, Collinsville
• Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge, 29 Chapman St, Proserpine

The Collinsville voting centre will open from 1-5pm on 8-11 August 2022 and 1-6pm on 12 August 2022.

On election day on 13 August 2022 there will be five polling booths.

Postal vote applications are open until 7pm on 1 August 2022. You can apply online via the ECQ website or phone the ECQ on 1300 881 665.

Telephone voting registrations are open 9am on 1 August 2022 until 12pm on 13 August 2022 and people can vote by phone up until 6pm on election day.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details on the Whitsunday mayoral by-election can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Whitsunday by-election called for 13 August 2022

13 July 2022

A by-election to elect a new Mayor for Whitsunday Regional Council will be held on 13 August 2022.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed the date and Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there were a number of ways people could vote.

“Don’t worry if you can’t make it on polling day, we have several options available including telephone voting for people who meet the eligibility criteria, like those who have tested positive to COVID-19 and anyone interstate or overseas,” Mr Vidgen said.

“There will also be two weeks of early voting and postal voting and both of those options are open to everyone.

“We know there are more than 23,600 registered voters in the Whitsunday region and we want to make voting as quick and easy as possible for every one of them.”

The by-election officially begins on Friday when the notice of election is issued, signalling the start of the nomination period for anyone wanting to run as mayor.

Postal vote applications also open on Friday and close 7pm on 1 August 2022.

Early voting starts at 9am on 1 August 2022 and finishes at 6pm on 12 August 2022 at three early voting centres in Bowen, Cannonvale and Proserpine.

On election day there will be five polling booths in Cannonvale Beach, Proserpine, Collinsville, Bowen and Hamilton Island.

Mr Vidgen reminded people in the Whitsunday region voting is compulsory and failure to vote fines increased to $143.75 from 1 July 2022.

Further details about the Whitsunday by-election will be available on ECQ’s website after the notice of election is issued.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

One week left for public feedback into council boundary review

27 June 2022

More than 6,500 residents in Livingstone and Rockhampton council areas have already had their say on a proposed boundary change.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) is assessing a proposal to transfer the suburbs of Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview from Livingstone Shire Council to Rockhampton Regional Council.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there was one more week of public consultation so there was still time for residents to take part.

“Thank you to those who have already said whether they are for or against the proposed boundary change and we are still keen to hear from as many people as possible,” he said.

“No one knows the area better than those living there so we encourage you to either fill out the voluntary survey or lodge a written submission.”

A survey was mailed to around 85,500 people enrolled to vote in Livingstone Shire and Rockhampton Regional Councils and public submissions opened two weeks ago.

Of the more than 6500 comments received to date, around 6,400 were survey responses and more than 90 were submissions.

“Public feedback is an important part of the assessment process and this is the community’s chance to voice its opinion about where these three suburbs should sit,” Mr Vidgen said.

Written submissions and the survey both close 5pm on 4 July 2022. Further details can be found on the Electoral Commission of Queensland website.

The survey result and submissions will be made public and published on this website once they are reviewed.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister responsible for Local Government.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Bryson Head new Member for Callide

23 June 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland has declared Bryson Head the new Member for Callide following Saturday’s by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen officially announced the result this morning.

“Central Queensland residents have spoken and Bryson Head will now represent the Callide electorate in parliament,” he said.

“As far as statistics go, we had a good take up of early, postal and telephone voting options ahead of Saturday’s polling day.

“People like having options to cast a vote, not just on polling day itself.”

More than 8500 people voted at one of four early voting centres in Chinchilla, Gayndah, Gin Gin and Biloela, more than 5700 voted via postal voting and more than 800 voted via telephone voting.

Mr Vidgen said more than 10,000 people voted at a polling booth on election day, which indicated people were beginning to return to a more traditional way of voting following Covid-19 restrictions.

See the full Callide by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Boundary survey begins for Central Queensland residents

20 June 2022

People enrolled to vote in the Livingstone and Rockhampton council areas are being asked to have their say on a proposed boundary change.

A survey is being sent to about 85,500 people in the Central Queensland council areas to gauge public sentiment about transferring the suburbs of Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview from Livingstone to Rockhampton.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) is assessing the proposal and the survey is landing in letter boxes.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said public feedback was an important part of the Change Commission’s assessment.

“Local knowledge can be really helpful, and we know a lot of people feel strongly about these proposed boundary changes,” Mr Vidgen said.

“We’ve made it really easy to give feedback with just one question on the survey which requires a yes or no answer.

“Participation is voluntary however we strongly encourage those who want to have a say to respond to the survey.”

The survey will run for two weeks starting today, and recipients can either fill it out online or mail their response back.

Written submissions opened on 13 June 2022 for three weeks and further details can be found on the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) website.

The survey result and submissions will be published on this website once they are reviewed.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Count begins for Callide by-election

18 June 2022

Polls have closed and the preliminary count is underway to determine the next Member for Callide.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said staff were counting the first preferences from the votes taken on election day, during early voting, telephone voting and the postal votes that had been returned so far.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said even though polling was over, it could take a few days before the election outcome was known.

“The timing of the result all depends on how close the contest is. If it is a tight race, we might be waiting for people to return their postal votes before there is a clear result,” he said.

“We know there are about 2,500 outstanding postal votes and we encourage anyone with these to return their ballot papers as soon as possible.”

Across the Central Queensland electorate of Callide, there were:

• more than 8,600 early voters (in-person)
• more than 830 telephone voters
• more than 10,600 people who voted at an election day polling booth, and
• more than 4,170 postal votes returned so far.

Postal votes are due back to ECQ by 6pm on 28 June 2022.

Keep up to date with Callide by-election results on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Last days for early voting ahead of Callide by-election

16 June 2022

People in the Central Queensland electorate of Callide have three days left to vote for the state’s next Member of Parliament.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said early voting had been popular since it began on 6 June, with more than 6200 people already casting their ballots ahead of polling day on Saturday.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen reminded voters polling booths were open until 5pm today and 6pm tomorrow to cast an early vote.

“Traditionally the day before polling day is our busiest for those wanting to vote early and we are expecting a big day on Friday,” he said.

“Whenever you go to a polling booth, it’s important to number all six boxes on the ballot paper to make sure your vote counts at this election.

“And bring your Voter Information Card along because it makes the voting process a bit faster.

“If people find themselves unable to vote in person due to a Covid-19 diagnosis they can still register for telephone voting.”

Telephone voting registrations close at midday on Saturday 18 June and people can vote up until 6pm that night. To register call 1300 912 782.

Telephone voting is also available for those who are interstate or overseas or people with an impairment that makes it difficult to get to a polling booth or vote without assistance.

On election day there will be 31 polling booths right across the Callide electorate. Find your nearest one here.

Postal votes must be completed by 6pm on election day and returned to ECQ by 28 June 2022.

Early voting polling centres are open until 6pm tomorrow at the following locations:

• ECQ early voting centre, 60 Kariboe St, Biloela
• Our Lady Help of Christians Church Hall, 47 Middle St, Chinchilla
• Gayndah CWA Hall, 5 Pineapple St, Gayndah
• Gin Gin RSL Hall, 37 Milden St, Gin Gin

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Public submissions open into council boundaries

13 June 2022

The public is invited to have its say over a proposed change to the boundary between the Livingstone Shire and Rockhampton Regional Councils.

The Local Government Change Commission (Change Commission) is assessing a request to transfer the suburbs of Rockyview, Glenlee and Glendale from Livingstone to Rockhampton.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said submissions were open to anyone who wanted to comment.

“The Change Commission looks at whether the proposal is in the public interest, so we want to hear what the public thinks about transferring the three suburbs,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Locals can provide some good insights and we’re really interested to hear the community’s feedback.

“We know the issue has been around for a while, but now is the time to have your say because it’s a formal boundary review and the matter is going to be decided in coming months.”

Mr Vidgen said submissions were open for three weeks and public feedback was one of the many factors being considered.

“We’ve heard from the two councils, Queensland Treasury Corporation has done a financial assessment of the change and there’s more consultation in the pipeline,” he said.

“Soon we’ll be mailing a survey to those who are enrolled to vote in the two council areas, and they can either mail it back or fill it out online.”

The survey is voluntary and opens on 20 June 2022 for two weeks.

Public submissions are open from 9am 13 June until 5pm 4 July 2022.

They can be made by emailing LGCCsubmissions@ecq.qld.gov.au, by post to GPO Box 1393 Brisbane QLD 4001 or via the online form on the ECQ website ecq.qld.gov.au.

The Change Commission is the independent body responsible for assessing proposed changes to Queensland councils. It can only assess proposals referred by the Minister for Local Government.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

One week left for Callide early voting

13 June 2022

More than 4,000 people have already taken advantage of early voting ahead of Saturday’s state by-election in the Callide electorate.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is expecting up to 10,000 people could cast their vote at one of four early voting polling booths in Biloela, Chinchilla, Gayndah and Gin Gin.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Callide early voters were likely to exceed the number seen in the electorate at the 2020 election.

“People in Callide have a history of high turnout at early voting and, so far more than 10 per cent of the electorate’s 35,000 voters have already had their say about who they want as the new Member for Callide,” Mr Vidgen said.

“There is still one week left for early voting so we are prepared for a busy few days, and people only have to fill in one ballot paper this time.”

Early voting polling booths open daily from 9am to 5pm, except Friday when they close at 6pm, at the following locations:

• ECQ early voting centre, 60 Kariboe St, Biloela
• Our Lady Help of Christians Church Hall, 47 Middle St, Chinchilla
• Gayndah CWA Hall, 5 Pineapple St, Gayndah
• Gin Gin RSL Hall, 37 Milden St, Gin Gin

Voters have until midday on Saturday to register for telephone voting and can vote up until 6pm on election night. To register phone 1300 912 782.

Telephone voting is available to those who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate due to a COVID-19 diagnosis or those who are interstate or overseas.

There are 31 polling booths that will be open from 8am to 6pm on election day, Saturday 18 June 2022. To find your nearest one click here.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Early voting starts today for Callide electorate

6 June 2022

Early voting starts today to help decide the new state member of Callide ahead of election day on 18 June 2022.

Voters in the Central Queensland electorate have two weeks to cast their early votes with polling booths across four locations.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen empathised with the almost 35,000 voters in Callide who had to vote again in the by-election, just weeks after the federal election but said there would be a few options available.

“We have early voting booths in Biloela, Chinchilla, Gayndah and Gin Gin, giving voters plenty of choice,” Mr Vidgen said.

“At the 2020 state election, about 38 per cent of people in the Callide electorate cast their ballots during the early voting period and we expect to see those numbers, or possibly higher, again.

“We’ve worked to make voting as easy as possible and there’s only one ballot paper so it’s a quick process, but an important one.”

The early voting polling booths open 9am today and open daily until 5pm (excluding weekends), and close at 6pm on 17 June 2022 at the following locations:

• ECQ early voting centre, 60 Kariboe St, Biloela
• Our Lady Help of Christians Church Hall, 47 Middle St, Chinchilla
• Gayndah CWA Hall, 5 Pineapple St, Gayndah
• Gin Gin RSL Hall, 37 Milden St, Gin Gin

Telephone voting registrations also open today and run through until midday on 18 June 2022, and people can vote up until 6pm on election night.

“Telephone voting is available to those who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate due to COVID-19 or people who might be interstate or overseas,” Mr Vidgen said.

Voters also have until 7pm tonight to apply for a postal vote.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

New Mayor named for Torres Shire Council

31 May 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland declared Yen Loban as the new Torres Shire Mayor, following Saturday’s by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen officially announced the result on Tuesday morning.

“It was a pretty close race but in the end Mr Loban finished with about 45 per cent of the vote putting him ahead of the other two candidates,” Mr Vidgen said.

“A standout at this election was the incredibly low rate of informal votes which came in at just over half a per cent.

“That means more than 99 per cent of the votes were formal and helped to decide the community’s next Mayor.”

Mr Vidgen said people in Torres Shire took advantage of an early start to early voting.

“We were able to start early voting two days earlier than planned to give the community more time to have their say,” he said

ECQ said 449 people cast their ballots during early voting, while 527 voted on election day.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Callide by-election candidates announced

31 May 2022

Six candidates will vie for the Central Queensland seat of Callide at a state by-election next month.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said six of the state’s 10 registered political parties put candidates forward before nominations closed at midday today.

The candidates in ballot paper order are:

• Fabrice Jarry (Legalise Cannabis Qld)
• Paula Gilbard (Animal Justice Party)
• Adam Burling (KAP)
• Sharon Lohse (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation)
• Bryson Head (LNP)
• Bronwyn Dendle (ALP).

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said six candidates was a healthy field, especially for a by-election.

“Now we know who is running we’ll start printing the ballot papers this afternoon so voting can get underway next week,” Mr Vidgen said.

“There are a number of options to help the almost 35,000 people enrolled to vote in Callide have their say at the ballot box.

“Early voting is a really popular choice and it starts on Monday at four polling booths operating at Biloela, Chinchilla, Gayndah and Gin Gin.”

On election day on 18 June 2022 there will be 31 polling booths right across the Callide electorate.

“If people can’t cast their ballots in person they can apply for a postal vote, and telephone voting will also be available to those who meet certain criteria, including having to isolate due to COVID-19,” Mr Vidgen said.

Postal vote applications are open until 7pm on 6 June 2022.

Telephone voting registrations open at 9am on 6 June 2022 and close at midday on 18 June 2022 and people can vote up until 6pm that night.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Callide by-election called for 18 June 2022

Thursday 26 May 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says preparations are in full swing for the by-election being held in the Central Queensland electorate of Callide on 18 June 2022.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidates have until midday next Tuesday to officially nominate.

“We know Callide has an active community and this is the perfect chance to be a voice for what matters most to the people of Callide,” Mr Vidgen said.

Mr Vidgen assured voters there would be a number of ways they could cast their ballots.

“There will be two weeks of early voting from 6 June with polling booths in Gin Gin, Biloela and Chinchilla and other locations may be added,” he said.

On election day there will be around 31 polling booths across the electorate, but we also have options for people who can’t vote in person.

“Telephone voting will be available for some voters, including those who have tested positive to Covid-19 and anyone interstate or overseas.

“People can also apply for a postal vote online now by visiting the ECQ website, giving the almost 35,000 voters in Callide many ways to have their say on the next Member for Callide.”

Postal vote applications are open until 7pm on 6 June 2022.

Telephone voting registrations open at 9am on 6 June 2022 and close at midday on 18 June 2022 and people can vote up until 6pm that night.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Early voting begins for Torres Shire Council Mayoral by-election

Tuesday 24 May 2022

Torres Shire residents can take advantage of an early start to voting in the lead-up to Saturday’s Mayoral by-election.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said the early voting polling booth opened on Monday afternoon, two days earlier than first planned.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said it would give the community more time to have its say about the next Mayor of Torres Shire Council.

“We know it is a big week with the 30^th anniversary of the Torres Strait flag and National Reconciliation Week events, so everyone is encouraged to vote early,” Mr Vidgen said.

“We’ve been able to open the early-voting polling booth two days early so people can vote straight away.

“We also want to remind anyone who received a postal vote they need to fill it out and get it back to the post office as quickly as possible, so it arrives in time to be counted.”

Mr Vidgen empathised with Torres Shire residents having to vote again a week after the federal election but said it would be a quick and easy process.

‘‘By law we’re not allowed to hold a council by-election on the same day as a federal election,” he said.

“We know the community only voted a few days ago but this one is a little closer to home and their vote can help decide who the next Mayor of Torres Shire will be.

“Voting is compulsory, but it is much easier this time as there is just one ballot paper and you only need to number one box for your vote to count.”

The three candidates running for Mayor are Yen Loban, Gabriel Bani and Ivy Trevallion.

Early voting is available from 8am-5pm until Thursday, then 8am-6pm on Friday at the council building at 68 Douglas Street on Thursday Island.

Election day voting is from 8am-6pm on Saturday 28 May and there will be polling booths at TRAWQ Hall and the Anglican Church Hall on Thursday Island and at the Horn Island Sports Complex on Horn Island.

Covid-19 safety measures are in place at polling booths, including extra cleaning and sanitation.

Further details can be found on the ECQ website.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665.

Result declared in South Burnett Regional Council by-election

Wednesday 11 May 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) today announced that Jane Erkens had been elected as councillor for Division 1 of the South Burnett Regional Council.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen declared Ms Erkens was the successful candidate at the by-election held on 30 April 2022.

“Jane Erkens secured about 59 per cent of the vote after the distribution of preferences, putting her ahead of the three other candidates,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Ms Erkens was the frontrunner throughout the count, but postal voters had 10 days after the election to return ballot papers, so we had to wait until that deadline passed on 10 May before declaring the result. That’s because the number of outstanding postal votes and the distribution of preferences could have affected the outcome.”

Mr Vidgen said the Division 1 by-election highlighted how popular early voting had become in Queensland.

“We had four days of early voting at this by-election and people really turned out in force during that time,” he said.

“About two-thirds of all ballots were cast before we even got to election day.”

The by-election was held to replace the former Division 1 councillor Roz Frohloff who resigned in March 2022.

Find more information on the by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

Torres Shire Council by-election: three candidates stand for Mayor

Tuesday 10 May 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says three candidates are running for Mayor of Torres Shire Council.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said a by-election was being held this month to elect a new Mayor.

“The three candidates standing for Mayor are Yen Loban, Gabriel Bani and Ivy Trevallion,” Mr Vidgen said.

“In a couple of weeks Torres Shire residents will get to say which candidate they want as their Mayor, and there are a few ways they can do that.

“Early voting will run from Wednesday 25 May to Friday 27 May in the council building at 68 Douglas Street on Thursday Island.

“Then election day is Saturday 28 May and there will be three polling booths, two will be on Thursday Island and we will have another one on Horn Island.

“People in Torres Shire have to vote twice in May – the first time is the federal election and a few days later they get to choose their Mayor.”

Mr Vidgen said anyone who could not get to a polling booth or was going to be away during the by-election could apply for a postal vote.

“If you can’t vote for Mayor in person you have until 7pm on Monday 16 May 2022 to apply for a postal vote,” he said.

“That means your ballot paper will be mailed to you and you’ll have to mail it back.

“Applications can be done online at the ECQ website www.ecq.qld.gov.au or by phoning 1300 881 665 and ECQ staff will be happy to help.”

Voting at the by-election is compulsory for Australian citizens who are 18 or older.

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

Torres Shire Council Mayoral by-election: nominations open

Friday 29 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has announced a by-election will be held on 28 May 2022 to elect a new Mayor for the Torres Shire Council.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidate nominations were now open for anyone interested in filling the position, which became vacant on 22 April 2022.

“There are about 1900 enrolled voters in Torres Shire who’ll get to vote for their next Mayor during early voting which will run from 25 to 27 May, or on election day which is Saturday 28 May,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Mayors play an important role in communities and anyone interested in this position has until midday on Monday 9 May 2022 to lodge a nomination.

“I always advise people to start the nomination process as soon as possible because it involves a number of steps that have to be taken by law.

“For example, potential candidates need to make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a $250 deposit, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete mandatory online training that’s conducted by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

Mr Vidgen said candidates could find nomination forms and plenty of information on the ECQ website, and anyone needing extra help could contact the Assistant Returning Officer.

“Our Assistant Returning Officer Peter McGraw will be on Thursday Island from 5 – 9 May, and he’s more than happy to help candidates or anyone who might have questions about the by-election,” he said.

“He can be contacted by phoning 0418 729 591 or via email at peter.mcgraw@elections.qld.gov.au.”

Mr Vidgen said voting at next month’s by-election was compulsory for Torres Shire residents, who would have a couple of voting options.

“Early voting will be on Thursday Island, and there will three polling booths open on election day – one at Horn Island, one at Port Kennedy and the other will be in Tamwoy Town,” he said.

“Anyone who can’t vote in person has until 7pm on Monday 16 May to apply for a postal vote and we’ll send their ballot papers to them in the mail.”

Postal vote applications can be lodged via the ECQ website or by phoning 1300 881 665.

Find more information on the by-election at www.ecq.qld.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

South Burnett Regional Council Division 1 by-election: reminder to vote

Thursday 28 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is reminding people in Division 1 of the South Burnett Regional Council to vote for their next councillor by 6pm this Saturday, 30 April 2022.

Speaking from the early voting polling booth in Nanango, Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said more than 1000 Division 1 residents had already cast their ballots.

“Early voting began here in Nanango on Tuesday and there’s been a great turnout so far,” Mr Vidgen said.

“On day one more than 490 people voted and on Wednesday more than 540 ballots were cast  – some people were even waiting for the polling booth to open.

“It’s fantastic to see people keen to have their say about which one of the four candidates they want as their next councillor, and casting a ballot during the early voting period also frees up their long weekend.”

Mr Vidgen said Friday 29 April was the final day of early voting and the polling booth at the Customer Service Centre and Library at 48 Drayton Street Nanango would be open from 9am to 6pm.

“Everyone is welcome to vote early but people can also cast their ballots on election day, which is this Saturday, 30 April, when the polling booth will operate at Nanango State School from 8am to 6pm,” he said.

“People who’ve applied for a postal vote also have to complete them by 6pm on Saturday (30 April), and they need to get those votes back to ECQ by 5pm on Tuesday 10 May so they can be added to the count.”

The ECQ said voting at the by-election was compulsory for the approximately 4000 people enrolled to vote in Division 1.

Find more information on the by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

South Burnett Regional Council Division 1 by-election: voting begins

Monday 25 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland says voting for a new councillor begins tomorrow for about 4000 voters in Division 1 of the South Burnett Regional Council.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said there would be four days of early voting at the Customer Service Centre and Library at 48 Drayton Street, Nanango.

“The early voting polling booth will be open from 9am to 5pm each day from Tuesday 26 April to Thursday 28 April, and from 9am to 6pm on Friday 29 April,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Election day is Saturday 30 April and there’ll be a polling booth at the Nanango State School which will be open from 8am to 6pm.

“Voting in this by-election is compulsory for people in Division 1, and the early voting option could be especially handy for anyone who is planning to go away over the Labour Day long weekend.

“I’ll be at the early voting polling booth on Thursday and I’m looking forward to seeing democracy in action in the South Burnett.”

Mr Vidgen said the four candidates vying for the role of Division 1 councillor were Rebecca Jackson, Levi Madeley, Tony Edwards, and Jane Erkens.

“By law, the optional preferential voting system applies at this by-election, meaning electors can choose to number one, some, or all the boxes on their ballot paper in their preferred order,” he said.

“If anyone is unsure of the process, the ECQ’s election staff will be happy to answer any questions.

“A COVID-safe plan is in place for early voting and on election day, and people can bring their own pen or pencil if they wish.”

The ECQ said anyone who had applied for a postal vote, but was yet to receive it in the mail, could get their ballot paper from the polling booth.

Find more information on the South Burnett Regional Council Division 1 by-election on the ECQ website: ecq.qld.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

South Burnett Regional Council by-election: four candidates vying for Division 1

Monday 11 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has announced four candidates will contest the South Burnett Regional Council Division 1 by-election being held on 30 April 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidate nominations closed at midday on Monday 11 April and the ballot paper order draw was conducted at 2:30pm.

“Division 1 has about 4000 enrolled electors who get to choose their next councillor from four candidates – Rebecca Jackson, Levi Madeley, Tony Edwards and Jane Erkens,” Mr Vidgen said.

“It’s great to see people putting up their hands to serve their community.”

Mr Vidgen encouraged people living in Division 1 to start planning how they would have their say at the ballot box.

“Voting is compulsory and there are quite a few public holidays coming up, so people really need to starting thinking about how and when they’ll vote,” he said.

“There will be four days of early voting from Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 April at 48 Drayton Street Nanango.

“On election day, Saturday 30 April, the polling booth will be at the Nanango State School, and it’ll be open from 8am to 6pm.”

The ECQ said anyone who could not vote in person had until 7pm on 18 April to apply for a postal vote and their ballot materials would be sent to them in the mail.

Applications can be made online at the ECQ website any time before the cut-off date, or by phoning 1300 881 665 before 5pm on Thursday 14 April 2022.

Find more information on the by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

North Burnett Regional Council by-election: result declared

Wednesday 6 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Kingsley Mesner the successful candidate at the North Burnett Regional Council Division 2 councillor by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Mr Mesner secured 51.1 per cent of the vote at the full postal by-election.

“This by-election was a tight race with just a handful of votes separating the two candidates from the start of the count through to the finish,” Mr Vidgen said.

“By law people have 10 days after an election to return their postal votes, and when that deadline passed on 5 April Kingsley Mesner had 51.1 percent of the votes compared to Noel Thompson who had about 48.9 per cent.

“So, Mr Mesner has been officially elected as the councillor for Division 2 of the North Burnett Regional Council.”

Mr Vidgen said the close result highlighted how important it was for people to have their say at the ballot box, and to ensure they completed their postal ballots correctly.

“Voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland and it gives people the opportunity to say who they want as their councillor,” he said.

“As we’ve just seen a small number of votes can make a big difference, which goes to show that everyone’s vote matters.”

Mr Mesner replaces the former Division 2 councillor Les Hotz who was elected North Burnett Mayor at a by-election earlier this year.

Find more information on the Division 2 councillor by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

South Burnett Regional Council by-election: nominations open

Friday 1 April 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says a by-election will be held on 30 April 2022 to elect a new councillor for Division 1 of the South Burnett Regional Council.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidate nominations were now open for anyone interested in filling the position, which became vacant last month.

“Division 1 has almost 4000 electors who’ll be able to vote for their next councillor during early voting which will run from 26 to 29 April, or on election day which is Saturday 30 April,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Anyone who wants to be a candidate at this by-election must complete a nomination form and a number of other tasks which can take some time.

“For example, potential candidates need to make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a $250 deposit, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete mandatory online training conducted by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

“There is more information about becoming a candidate as well as nomination forms on the ECQ website.

“I’d advise any prospective candidates to start the process as soon as possible because nominations close strictly at midday on 11 April 2022.”

Mr Vidgen also encouraged people living in Division 1 to make sure they were properly enrolled to vote.

“It’s very easy to enrol to vote if you’ve recently turned 18 or become an Australian citizen – it’s just as easy to update your details on the electoral roll if you’ve moved house or changed your name,” he said.

“Simply head to the ECQ website, click on ‘enrol to vote’, and it can all be done online in a few minutes.

“Voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland and it also gives you the opportunity to say who you want as your community leader.”

The ECQ said anyone who could not vote in person at the by-election could apply for a postal vote, with all applications to be lodged by 7pm on 18 April 2022.

Find more information on the by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

North Burnett Councillor by-election: Reminder to vote

24 March 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is reminding people in Division 2 of the North Burnett Regional Council area to vote for their next councillor by 6pm this Saturday, 26 March 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said a full postal by-election was underway to elect a new councillor from two candidates, Kingsley Mesner and Noel Thompson.

“Ballot papers were mailed to more than 1070 electors enrolled to vote in Division 2, and about 350 votes have already been completed and returned to the ECQ,” Mr Vidgen said.

“All votes must be completed by 6pm this Saturday 26 March, and they must be returned by 5pm on Tuesday 5 April so they can be added to the count.”

Mr Vidgen also encouraged electors to carefully follow the instructions on their voting materials.

“I’d remind Division 2 electors that voting is compulsory, so please fill in those ballot papers by numbering at least one box to show your preferred candidate,” he said.

“Then seal the completed ballot paper inside the declaration envelope, sign the declaration and get your signature witnessed before mailing your vote back in the reply-paid envelope.”

The ECQ said anyone who had not received their ballot paper in the mail, or needed a replacement, could pick one from the Returning Officer at the QCWA Hall, 5 Pineapple Street Gayndah.

The Returning Officer, Wayne Gormley, will be at the QCWA Hall from 8am-6pm on Saturday 26 March, and could be contacted on 0458 430 364 to arrange an alternative time.

Find more information on the by-election here.

Learn more about postal voting here.

ENDS

Media contact:media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

Richmond Shire Councillor by-election declared 

Wednesday, 23 March 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Sherreen Lanskey the successful candidate at the Richmond Shire Council councillor by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Ms Lanskey received 42 per cent of the votes at this month’s full postal by-election.

“The official election day was 12 March and electors then had ten days to return their postal votes so they could be added to the count,” Mr Vidgen said.

“When that deadline passed on Tuesday 22 March, Ms Lanskey was clearly in the lead with 42 per cent of the votes, while Emily Mackenzie and William Guy both received about 29 per cent.”

Mr Vidgen said the number of formal or valid votes at the Richmond Shire by-election was extremely high.

“Of the hundreds of votes that were cast only one vote was informal and that’s an impressive result,” he said.

“Richmond Shire residents have done an outstanding job in making sure their votes counted at this by-election.”

Find more information on the by-election here.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

Richmond Shire Councillor by-election: Remember to vote

9 March 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is reminding people in the Richmond Shire Council area to vote for their next councillor by 6pm this Saturday, 12 March 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said a full postal by-election was underway to elect a new councillor from three candidates.

“Ballot papers have been mailed to about 560 electors enrolled to vote in Richmond Shire, and now it’s time for them to have their say about who they want to represent them in council,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Only one councillor is being elected so people only need to mark one box on the ballot paper to show their preferred candidate, and all votes must be completed by 6pm on Saturday 12 March.

“It’s really great to see that more than 50 per cent of the votes have already been completed and returned to us.”

Mr Vidgen said voting at the by-election was compulsory, and he reminded electors to follow all the instructions on the voting materials.

“By law there are a few steps that must be followed when completing a postal vote or the vote can be deemed invalid which means it can’t be counted,” he said

“You have to detach the ballot paper and complete it, then seal the ballot paper inside the declaration envelope, sign that declaration and have your signature witnessed by an adult who signs the declaration envelope too.

“The declaration envelope then goes inside the reply-paid envelope which has to be mailed back to the ECQ.

“All votes at this by-election must be returned by 5pm on Tuesday 22 March.”

The ECQ said anyone who had not received their ballot paper in the mail, or needed a replacement, could pick one up from the Returning Officer at Richmond Shire Council Chambers, 65 Goldring Street, Richmond.

The office will be open from 9am-5pm on 9-11 March, and from 8am-6pm on 12 March.

Find more information on the by-election here.

Learn more about postal voting here.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

Two candidates contest Division 2 of the North Burnett Regional Council

Monday 7 March 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says two candidates will contest this month’s councillor by-election in Division 2 of the North Burnett Regional Council (NBRC).

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations closed at midday on Monday 7 March 2022 and the ballot paper order draw was held at 2:30pm.

“The two candidates vying to become the next Division 2 councillor are Kingsley Mesner and Noel Thompson,” Mr Vidgen said.

“This is a full postal by-election so the ballot papers will be mailed to more than 1070 electors enrolled in that division over the next couple of days.

“All votes must be completed by 6pm on Saturday 26 March, which is the official election day, but people are welcome to vote as soon as their voting materials arrive in the mail.

“There are laws in place to protect the integrity of elections, including the way postal votes have to be completed, so electors need to carefully follow the instructions or their vote may be deemed invalid.”

Mr Vidgen said the ECQ had contacted some electors whose postal vote could not be included in the count at the recent NBRC by-election where the then-Division 2 Councillor Les Hotz was elected Mayor.

“The ECQ wants people to have their say so we’ve written to Division 2 electors who made some errors at the mayoral by-election to help ensure their vote can be counted this time,” he said.

“The most common mistakes we see with postal votes are people forgetting to seal the ballot paper inside the declaration envelope, not signing the declaration envelope, or not having their signature witnessed.”

Division 2 electors who do not receive their voting materials in the mail or need a replacement are advised to phone the ECQ on 1300 881 665, or the Returning Officer on 0458 430 364.

Replacement ballot papers can also be collected from the Returning Officer at QCWA Hall, 5 Pineapple Street Gayndah, between 9am-5pm on Friday 25 March or 8am-6pm on Saturday 26 March.

Find more information on the by-election

Learn more about postal voting here.

ENDS

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 120 699

North Burnett Regional Council Division 2 councillor by-election: nominations open

Friday 25 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) says North Burnett Regional Council’s Division 2 electors will vote for a new councillor at a full postal by-election in March.

The position became vacant when the former Division 2 Councillor Les Hotz was elected Mayor earlier this year.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidate nominations for the councillor by-election open at 10am today and close at 12pm on Monday 7 March.

“By law there are several steps that must be taken when nominating for an election,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Potential candidates need to make sure they are eligible to nominate, complete free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website, pay a $250 deposit, and open a dedicated campaign bank account.

“A full list of candidate requirements is on the ECQ’s website on the Election Participants page, and I encourage anyone interested in running for councillor to nominate as soon as possible.”

Mr Vidgen said the by-election is a full postal ballot as requested by the council and approved by the Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympic infrastructure, the Honourable Steven Miles MP.

“Ballot materials will be printed and mailed to Division 2’s around 1070 electors following the close of nominations and ballot paper order draw on Monday 7 March.

“I ask electors to complete their vote as soon as possible, and make sure the completed ballot paper goes into the declaration envelope then seal it, sign it and have that signature witnessed.

“The completed declaration envelope has to be put in the reply-paid envelope and mailed back straight away to ensure the vote arrives before the deadline of Tuesday 5 April.

“All votes must be completed before 6pm on Saturday 26 March, and voting is compulsory if you’re 18 or over.”

Mr Vidgen encouraged Division 2 residents to make sure their details were up to date on the electoral roll so their ballot papers could be delivered to the correct address.

“Updates to the electoral roll for this by-election close on Thursday 3 March, so now is a perfect time for North Burnett’s Division 2 electors to check or update their enrolment at aec.gov.au.

“Anyone who has moved recently, or has just turned 18, should make sure they are correctly enrolled,” he said.

In accordance with the Local Government Electoral Act 2011, North Burnett Regional Council Division 2 electors will use the optional preferential voting system for this councillor by-election.

Media enquiries: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665

• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au

• Read the Candidate Handbook for Local Government Quadrennial Elections and By-elections
• Learn more about the Mandatory candidate training
• Read the ECQ’s webpage Local government election participants
• Candidate nominations through the ECQ Self Service Portal
• Nomination form – non-endorsed candidate |  Nomination form – endorsed candidate
• Read the Journey of your postal vote
• A map of the North Burnett Regional Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election declared

21 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Roy Chevathen the successful candidate in the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Mr Chevathen received 54 per cent of the votes, Charles Mene received around 22 per cent, Ernest Madua 15 per cent, and Ethel Bosuen nine per cent.

“The polling booth was open for early voting on Friday 18 February and then again on election day, Saturday 19 February,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The preliminary count was conducted immediately following the close of polls at 6pm on Saturday, and the official first preference count was completed on Sunday.

“Mr Chevathen had an unbeatable lead after receiving more than half the formal votes making the result certain, and a quick declaration possible.”

All Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election information including the voting results can be viewed at ecq.qld.gov.au.

The voting system for this by-election was first-past-the-post as determined in the Local Government Electoral Act 2011 for an undivided council.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries: 1300 881 665

• View the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election page
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about the first-past-the-post voting system
• A map of the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Richmond Shire Council: nominations close with three candidates vying for the vacant councillor role

Monday 21 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced three candidates had nominated for the Richmond Shire Council by-election being held on 12 March 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations closed at midday on Monday 21 February and the ballot paper order draw was conducted at 2:30pm.

“The three candidates vying for the councillor role are Sherreen LANSKEY (JOHNSTON), Emily MACKENZIE, and William GUY,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Ballot papers are now being printed and electors should expect to see their postal voting materials arriving in the mail very soon.

“This is a full postal by-election, and it is important electors complete their postal ballot correctly so it can be included in the count.

“I ask electors to read the voting instructions carefully, complete their vote as soon as it arrives, put the ballot paper in the declaration envelope and seal it, sign the envelope, and have it witnessed.

“Once that is done, put the declaration envelope in the reply-paid envelope and mail it to the Returning Officer straight away.

“All voting must be done by 6pm on Saturday 12 March and the deadline for the return of postal votes is Tuesday 22 March.”

Mr Vidgen said the voting system for an undivided council is determined in the Local Government Electoral Act as first-past-the-post.

“This means electors only have to choose one candidate on their ballot paper, as there is one councillor to be elected.

“I remind Richmond Shire residents that voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland,” he said.

Information about the Richmond Shire Council by-election is available at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• Learn more about Richmond Shire
• Map of Richmond Shire
• Discover the Journey of your postal vote
• Read more about first-past-the-post voting
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media
• Postal voting checklist

Richmond Shire Council councillor by-election: nominations open

Friday 11 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced nominations are open for the Richmond Shire Council by-election, being held on 12 March 2022.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said anyone interested in becoming a councillor should act now as there were several steps in the nomination process.

“Under Queensland law, potential candidates need to make sure they are eligible to nominate,” Mr Vidgen said.

“They must also pay a $250 deposit, open a dedicated campaign bank account, and complete the free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.

“The full list of candidate requirements is on the ECQ website Election Participants page and nominations will close strictly at midday on Monday 21 February.”

The election to fill the councillor position vacated last month will be a full postal ballot, as requested by the council.

“A full-postal election means there will be no polling booths and all ballot materials will be mailed to the region’s around 560 electors following the close of nominations,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Voting is compulsory if you’re 18 or older and all votes must be completed before 6pm on election day, which is Saturday 12 March.”

Mr Vidgen encouraged Richmond Shire residents to check they were correctly enrolled to vote, so their ballot materials could be sent to the correct address.

“The electoral roll will close on Friday 18 February, so now is the perfect time for people to check or update their enrolment at aec.gov.au, especially anyone who has moved house or just turned 18.”

More information about the by-election can be found online at ecq.qld.gov.au or by phoning 1300 881 665.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665

• Learn more about Richmond Shire
• Map of Richmond Shire
• Read the Candidate nomination information
• Read the fact sheet – Guide to nominating as a candidate for local government election
• Learn more about being a councillor on the SDILGP website 
• Do the Mandatory candidate training
• Read more about first-past-the-post voting
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election: voting begins

Thursday 10 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said early voting in the Napranum Aboriginal Shire councillor by-election will run from 9am to 6pm on Friday 18 February, and voting will be from 8am to 6pm on election day, Saturday 19 February.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the polling booth would be operating at Suzie Madua Hall so Napranum’s around 560 electors could choose their next councillor.

“Electors will choose one of the four candidates, Roy Chevathen, Ethel Bosuen, Charles Mene, and Ernest Madua,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The voting system for an undivided council such as Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council is first-past-the-post.

“As there is only one councillor to be elected in this by-election, electors only need to number one box on their ballot paper for their vote to count.

“Election staff will be available during early voting and on election day to explain the voting system if anyone has questions.”

Mr Vidgen said COVID-safe measures would be in place at the polling booth.

“To stay COVID-safe, electors will be asked to wear a mask indoors, stay 1.5 metres apart, and use hand sanitiser.

“Election staff will ensure voting areas are regularly cleaned and pencils sanitised, but people are welcome to bring their own pen or pencil if they wish.

“The ECQ has successfully and safely run 20 elections and by-elections across Queensland since the outbreak of COVID in early 2020.”

Mr Vidgen said all postal voting must be completed by 6pm on election day Saturday 19 February, with the deadline for the return of postal votes on Tuesday 1 March.

“I remind electors, voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland.”

The first-past-the-post voting system is detailed in Section 65 of the Local Government Electoral Act 2011 for undivided council elections such as the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council. Voting information is available at ecq.qld.gov.au or by calling 1300 881 665.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries: 1300 881 665

• View the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election page
• Read more about the councillor nominees
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about the first-past-the-post voting system
• A map of the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

North Burnett Mayoral by-election declared: Les Hotz successful candidate

Wednesday 2 February 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Councillor Les Hotz the successful candidate of the Mayoral by-election for the North Burnett Regional Council.

Assistant Electoral Commissioner Wade Lewis said of the five candidates contesting the by-election, Cr Hotz received nearly 58 per cent of the formal votes following the distribution of preferences.

“Following both the preliminary and the official first preference counts, Les Hotz and John Bowen were the two leading candidates, so it was clear the full distribution of preferences would be required to determine the outcome,” Mr Lewis said.

“Tuesday 1 February was the deadline for the return of postal votes and the next day ECQ election staff conducted the full preference count with scrutineers in attendance.

“This full allocation of voters’ preferences saw Cr Hotz move ahead in the count and be elected the next Mayor of North Burnett.”

Mr Lewis said at this full postal by-election around 7,200 votes were sent to enrolled electors with close to 5,000 formal votes accepted into the count.

“Electors in North Burnett have had full postal ballots for all council elections since 2008,” Mr Lewis said.

“North Burnett electors will vote in another by-election within the next few months to replace Cr Hotz.”

The Mayoral by-election was triggered by the resignation of Rachel Chambers effective Saturday 11 December 2021.

More information about the by-election and the results can be found at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Media enquiries: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665

• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au

The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election: four candidates announced

Thursday 27 January 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced four candidates are contesting the by-election at Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, with the official nomination period ending at midday on Tuesday 25 January.

The ECQ said Roy CHEVATHEN, Ethel BOSUEN, Charles MENE, and Ernest MADUA, are vying for the councillor role with in-person voting being held on both Friday 18 February and Saturday 19 February 2022.

Assistant Electoral Commissioner Wade Lewis said Napranum’s around 540 enrolled electors would be able to vote at Suzy Madua Hall, 320 Wa-Tyne Street, Napranum.

“The polling booth will be open for early voting from 9am to 6pm on Friday 18 February, and on election day from 8am to 6pm, Saturday 19 February,” Mr Lewis said.

“The voting system for an undivided council such as Napranum Aboriginal Shire is first-past-the-post.

“That means as there is only one candidate to be elected in this by-election, electors only need to number one box on their ballot paper for their vote to count.

“Election staff will be available during early voting and on election day to explain the voting system if anyone has questions, or electors can call the ECQ on 1300 881 665 beforehand.”

Mr Lewis said COVID-safe measures would be in place at the polling booth.

“To stay COVID-safe, electors will be asked to wear a mask indoors, stay 1.5 metres apart, use hand sanitiser, and they are welcome to bring their own pen or pencil if they wish,” Mr Lewis said.

“They will also either need to check in using the Check In Qld app or ask ECQ staff for help to check in, and election staff will ensure the voting areas are regularly cleaned.

“The ECQ has successfully and safely run 20 elections and by-elections across Queensland since the outbreak of COVID in early 2020.”

Mr Lewis said electors interesting in applying for a postal vote could do so online now, and their applications must be received by the ECQ before 7pm on Monday 7 February.

“Postal vote applications can be completed online via the ECQ website, by phoning the ECQ on 1300 881 665, or by downloading a PDF form and returning this to the ECQ via mail or email,” Mr Lewis said.

“All voting must be completed by 6pm on election day Saturday 19 February and the deadline for the return of postal votes is 10 days later, on Tuesday 1 March.

“I remind electors, voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland.”

The first-past-the-post voting system is detailed in Section 65 of the Local Government Electoral Act 2011 for undivided council elections such as the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council.

Voting information including locations and times, is available at ecq.qld.gov.au or by calling 1300 881 665.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries: 1300 881 665

• View the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election page
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about the first-past-the-post voting system
• Read the Candidate Handbook for Local Government Quadrennial elections and by-elections
• A map of the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries

The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Kowanyama councillor by-election declared: David Jack successful candidate

Monday 17 January 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared David Jack the successful candidate in the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said two candidates nominated to contest the vacant councillor role, Leslie Gilbert and David Jack, with Mr Jack receiving over 65 per cent of the official preference count.

“Early voting took place on Friday 14 January and election day was Saturday 15 January,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Early voting is very popular and 149 Kowanyama electors voted on Friday, and 166 on election day.

“The preliminary vote count was conducted following the close of polls at 6pm on election day and the official count was completed on Sunday 16 January.

“While there are a small number of outstanding postal votes, the ECQ can declare the election today as Mr Jack’s lead is more than 30 per cent so the remaining postal votes cannot change the result.”

All Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council by-election information including the voting results can be viewed at ecq.qld.gov.au

The voting system was first-past-the-post as determined in the Local Government Electoral Act for an undivided council.

END

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699

• View the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council by-election results
• Information about the first-past-the-post voting system
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

North Burnett Regional Council Mayoral by-election: vote by 6pm on Saturday 22 January

Monday 17 January 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) reminded voters in the North Burnett Regional Council they must complete their postal vote for Mayor by 6pm on by-election day, Saturday 22 January.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the by-election was a full postal vote which meant ballot materials were sent to all approximately 7,200 residents on the electoral roll, and more than 2,500 votes have already been returned to the ECQ.

“By 14 January, more than 2,500 votes had already been returned to the ECQ and it’s great to see so many people have already chosen their preferred candidate and sent their vote back to make sure it is included in the count,” Mr Vidgen said.

“By law all postal votes in this election must be returned by Tuesday 1 February, and any that miss that deadline can’t be included in the counting process.

“There are a few steps that must be followed when completing a postal vote – you need to detach your ballot paper from the declaration envelope, complete the ballot paper according to the instructions at the top of it, then put your completed ballot paper inside the declaration envelope, seal it, sign it, and have it witnessed.

“Once that’s done you need to put the declaration envelope inside the reply-paid envelope and mail it back to ECQ straight away. If these steps are not completed, it is unlikely that your vote will be able to be counted.”

The Commissioner said there were options available to anyone who did not receive their ballot materials before the by-election.

“If an elector doesn’t receive their ballot paper in the mail in time to vote before 6pm on Saturday 22 January, they are still able to go to the office of the Returning Officer for a replacement ballot paper,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The office is at 5 Pineapple Street Gayndah and it will be open from 9am to 6pm on Friday 21 January, and again from 8am to 6pm on Saturday 22 January.

“I remind electors that voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland, and in this case, it’s also an opportunity to have your say about who you want as Mayor.”

Ballot materials for the North Burnett Regional Council Mayoral by-election were printed following the close of nominations and ballot paper order draw on 23 December 2021 and then distributed by Australia Post from early January 2022.

Media enquiries: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries 1300 881 665

• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election: candidate nominations now open

Monday 17 January 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced a councillor by-election for the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council is being held on Saturday 19 February 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidate nominations were now open for anyone interested in filling this important position, which became vacant on 10 January.

“There are about 540 enrolled voters in Napranum and a polling booth will be open for early voting from 9am to 6pm on Friday 18 February, and from 8am to 6pm on election day, Saturday 19 February,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Anyone who wants to be a candidate at this by-election must complete a candidate nomination form and lodge it with the Returning Officer or the ECQ by midday on Tuesday 25 January.

“Both the nomination forms and information about becoming a candidate are available on the ECQ website.”

Mr Vidgen said it was important not to leave nominating until the last minute as there were several steps that must be taken under the Local Government Electoral Act 2011.

“Potential candidates need to make sure they are eligible to nominate, complete free mandatory online training through the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website, pay a $250 deposit, and open a dedicated campaign bank account,” Mr Vidgen said.

“A full list of requirements can be found on the ECQ website on the Election Participants page, and I encourage anyone interested in running in this councillor by-election to check this page and nominate as soon as possible.”

Mr Vidgen said now was also a great time for Napranum residents to make sure they are correctly enrolled to vote.

“Voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland and enrolling to vote or updating your enrolment is easy and can be done online in a few minutes,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Anyone who has moved recently, or has just turned 18, should make sure they’re correctly enrolled by going to aec.gov.au.

Because Napranum is an undivided council, the first-past-the-post system will be used which means voters only need to mark one box on the ballot paper.

Electors can apply for a postal vote online or send the form PDF to the ECQ. All applications must be lodged by 7pm on Monday 7 February.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries: 1300 881 665

• View the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council by-election page
• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about the Mandatory candidate training
• Read the Candidate Handbook for Local Government Quadrennial Elections and By-elections PDF (0.36 MB)
• Candidate nominations through the ECQ Self Service Portal
• Nomination form – non-endorsed candidate | Nomination form – endorsed candidate
• A map of the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries
• The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council by-election: voting begins

Monday 10 January 2022

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) said voting begins this week for Kowanyama’s around 700 electors at the Kowanyama Multi-Purpose Centre from 9am to 6pm on Friday 14 January, and on election day from 8am to 6pm, Saturday 15 January 2022.

Commissioner Pat Vidgen said electors will choose one candidate from the two nominations, Leslie GILBERT and David JACK.

“The voting system for an undivided council such as Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is first-past-the-post,” Mr Vidgen said.

“As there is only one councillor to be elected in this by-election, electors only need to number one box on their ballot paper for their vote to count.

“Election staff will be available during early voting and on election day to explain the voting system if electors have questions.”

Mr Vidgen said there are COVID-safe measures in place for electors voting in person.

“To stay COVID-safe, electors will be asked to wear a mask indoors, stay 1.5 metres apart, use hand sanitiser, and bring their own pen or pencil if they wish.

“They will also either need to check in using the Check In Qld app or ask ECQ staff for help to check in.

“Election staff will ensure voting areas are regularly cleaned and pencils sanitised.

“The ECQ has successfully and safely run 19 elections and by-elections across Queensland since the outbreak of COVID in early 2020.”

Mr Vidgen said all postal voting must be completed by 6pm on election day Saturday 15 January, with the deadline for the return of postal votes on Tuesday 25 January 2022.

“I remind electors, voting is compulsory at all levels of government in Queensland.”

The first-past-the-post voting system is detailed in Section 65 of the Local Government Electoral Act 2011 for undivided council elections such as the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council.

Voting information including locations and times, is available at ecq.qld.gov.au or by calling 1300 881 665.

Media contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au 0438 120 699 | General enquiries: 1300 881 665

• Make sure you’re correctly enrolled at aec.gov.au
• Learn more about the first-past-the-post voting system
• View the candidate nominations
• A map of the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council can be found on the ECQ’s website under Local government area boundaries

The ECQ’s media statements are at ecq.qld.gov.au/media