Western Australians are encouraged to consider nominating as a candidate in the upcoming extraordinary local government elections. These elections, all of which will be conducted by post, will take place across 17 local government districts in March.
Extraordinary elections are held to fill vacancies that arise between ordinary election cycles, for example, when a councillor resigns or is no longer eligible to serve, or if there were not enough candidate nominations to fill vacancies during the ordinary elections.
The elections will be held on two dates in March, with nomination details as follows:
| Thursday 26 March 2026 | Saturday 28 March 2026 |
|---|---|
| Nominations open Tuesday 3 February 2026 |
Nominations open Thursday 5 February 2026 |
| Nominations close Tuesday 10 February 2026 |
Nominations close Tuesday 10 February 2026 |
Anyone wishing to nominate for local government must meet a number of eligibility criteria at the close of enrolments and at the time of nomination. Further information about eligibility requirements, which includes the mandatory online candidate induction can be found on the Department of Local Government Industry Regulation and Safety.
More information on candidate eligibility and the nomination process can also be found at on the on the WAEC website Candidate resources.
Each participating local government has an appointed Returning Officer who administers the election and can respond to candidate enquiries. Contact details for all Returning Officers are available on the WAEC website.
WAEC Electoral Commissioner Dennis O’Reilly encouraged community members to consider nominating. “Local governments are where community voices truly make a difference. I encourage anyone who cares about their local area to consider stepping forward as a candidate,” Mr O’Reilly said.
The WA Electoral Commission is committed to guiding and supporting candidates throughout the nomination and election process, with comprehensive resources and dedicated Returning Officers ready to assist.
These extraordinary elections ensure local communities continue to be fully represented, allowing councils to make decisions with the confidence and stability of a complete membership.
A list of Local Governments holding 2026 elections can be found 2026 Local Government extraordinary Elections.