More information will be provided on when Nominations will open once dates are announced.
If you are enrolled to vote in your local council elections, you are probably eligible to stand for a position on council.
Becoming a member of council is one of the most rewarding and direct ways that you can contribute to your community and influence decisions that affect the quality of life in your local area.
With very few exceptions (such as being an undischarged bankrupt, or being disqualified from holding office by a court order), you can nominate for a position on council regardless of qualifications, religion, race, gender, experience or profession.
In fact, councils encourage nominations from people from diverse backgrounds to ensure that a wide range of views are being represented.
Nomination Process
Nominations for the 2027 Local Government Elections open from Tuesday 26 January 2027 via the Electoral Commission of SA online portal. It is recommended that potential candidates download the Nomination Kit once it is available as the kit provides all the information required to ensure a smooth nomination process. Nominations close 12pm, Tuesday 9 February 2027.
The term of the next Council will be 4 years and 7 months (April 2027 to November 2031).
Further details regarding nominating can be sourced directly from the Electoral Commission of SA’s dedicated Nominate webpage.
Candidate Resources and Training Opportunities
LGA/ECSA Information for Candidates
Interactive Ward Map (note to check the 'Representation Review' section here for boundary changes to the Grange and Semaphore Park Wards)
eLearning for potential candidates
The free, self-paced Stand for Council eLearning provides a clear overview of council roles, responsibilities, and decision-making, as well as the leadership and behavioural standards expected of council members. It is designed to help potential candidates make an informed decision about standing and feel better prepared if they nominate.
The eLearning includes a leadership qualities and skills checklist, and 4 modules, covering:
- What is local government?
- Council roles
- Working together
- Leadership and behaviour
Participants can create a free account via the Council Elections website, enrol in modules and complete them in their own time:
See the eLearning modules and then you can create an account to start your training on the Stand for Council eLearning portal.
Additional candidate resources and material will be made available on our webpage as it becomes available.
Events
Kelledy Jones Local Government Elections Breakfast 2027
When: Friday, 5 February 2027 - 7:30am to 10am
Where: National Wine Centre - Botanic Road, Adelaide
Attendance Options: In Person Only
Cost: $100
An informative morning where a number of expert guest speakers will provide guidance and valuable insight into the framework and parameters for the 2027 Local Government periodic election process.
The Master of Ceremonies will be Mike Smithson, political reporter and journalist with his own views and experiences in this area. Joining him as guest speakers are South Australia's Ombudsman, Emily Strickland and Acting Electoral Commissioner of SA, Leah McLay. These two expert speakers will be joined by a metro Mayor (Michael Coxon from City of West Torrens) and a regional Mayor (Travis Barber from the District Council of Streaky Bay), both providing practical and real experiences as participants in these processes.
Whether you are a first-time candidate, are returning after a first term, returning after a break or even if you are a long-standing councillor or a council employee, the Kelledy Jones Local Government Elections Breakfast is an event in the elections calendar that is not to be missed.
This is a non-profit event. The small registration fee covers running costs as well as a delicious Breakfast Bowl of smoky baked beans, marinated swiss brown mushrooms, roasted pumpkin, pepita seeds, toasted Turkish bread, with the optional addition of bacon.
Candidate FAQs
In the lead up to the election candidates may contact our office with questions to assist them with their campaign. We recommend candidates visit our dedicated FAQs page regularly for up to date and ongoing information during their campaign.