Information about becoming a candidate in a local government election
Who can be a candidate?
Candidates 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 website.
To nominate as a candidate for a local government election, the candidate must submit an application consisting of:
- a completed nomination form. For elections being run by the WAEC, it is recommended that candidates use Nomination Builder to complete their nomination form and construct their candidate profile.
- a candidate profile which must:
- be in English
- be no more than 1000 characters (including spaces)
- not contain false, defamatory or misleading information
- fit on an A4 page
- include the candidate’s full name and contact information
- a photograph, no larger than passport-sized and taken in the last six months (optional).
- a deposit of $100
Candidates may also provide a written statement in English, of up to 2,000 characters (including spaces) with their nomination paper (optional).
All nomination applications must be signed by the candidate in front of a witness.
The nomination application must be submitted to the Returning Officer during the nomination period.
As the Returning Officer may ask candidates to amend their nomination, it is recommended that candidates ensure they have allowed sufficient time to finalise any required changes before the close of nominations.
More information
Additional information for candidates can be found on the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety.
Returning Officers
Returning Officers are responsible for the conduct of an election, including the nominations process. They are usually the first point of contact for any enquires relating to the election.
Authorisation of election campaign material
Information about authorisation of electoral material and other matters.
Candidates have a duty of disclosure of electoral donations. Candidates and donors are required to disclose any electoral related gifts promised or received within the six months prior to polling day.
All queries should be directed to the local government’s Chief Executive Officer.