Councils work together to engage community in 2027 elections
Fleurieu Peninsula community encouraged to take part in 2027 council elections
With local government elections scheduled for April 2027, the Fleurieu Peninsula council CEOs are working together to encourage community members to consider how they can take part in the election process.
The City of Victor Harbor, Alexandrina Council and District Council of Yankalilla have launched a joint awareness campaign aimed at increasing participation in the upcoming elections, whether through enrolling to vote, considering nomination, or casting a vote.
City of Victor Harbor Chief Executive Officer, Chris White, said the Fleurieu Peninsula is changing and growing, and it's important that community members understand how they can take part in local democracy.
“Council elections are our community’s opportunity to choose the Mayor and Council Members who represent them on issues that matter most and help shape the future of our region,” Mr White said.
“Councils make decisions every day about local services, infrastructure, planning for the future of our towns and many other matters that affect our communities.
“As we approach the 2027 elections, we encourage everyone to think about the role local government plays in their lives and how they get can involved in our Council elections.”
Enrolling to vote is an important first step towards participating in the 2027 council elections.
Residents enrolled on the State (House of Assembly) electoral roll with their primary place of residence in a Fleurieu Peninsula council area will automatically receive a voting pack before the election. People who have recently moved into the area or recently turned 18 should ensure their enrolment details are up to date on the state electoral role.
Some people who live outside a council area may also be eligible to vote, including non-resident property owners and business occupants. These people must apply to be included on the council voters roll before 5pm on Monday, 4 January 2027.
Alexandrina Council Chief Executive Officer, Andrew MacDonald, said Council Elections are open to a broader range of people than state elections.
“For example, if you live in Adelaide but own a business in Goolwa, you can enrol on the Alexandrina Council voters roll to vote on behalf of your business. This means you may be eligible to vote in both the City of Adelaide and the Alexandrina Council elections,” said Mr MacDonald.
“Similar provisions apply to non-resident property owners, body corporates, group owners and organisations. If you are unsure of your eligibility to vote, we encourage you to contact your local council for guidance.”
The councils’ joint campaign is also encouraging community members to learn more about becoming an elected member.
To support prospective candidates, the three councils are hosting free Candidate Information Sessions across the Fleurieu Peninsula.The sessions are designed for anyone interested in learning more about becoming an elected member, from people who are simply curious to those considering nomination.
Participants will hear about:
- How local government works.
- The role of elected members.
- Responsibilities and expectations of the position.
- The time commitment involved.
- The nomination process.
District Council of Yankalilla Chief Executive Officer Nathan Cunningham said councils benefit when people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences take an interest in local government.
"Elected members come from many different walks of life,” said Mr Cunningham.
"Whether you're interested in learning more about local government, considering nomination, or simply wanting a better understanding of how councils operate, we encourage community members to attend one of the upcoming sessions."
"These sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the role, what's involved and ask questions in an informal setting."
Candidate Information Sessions
City of Victor Harbor: Tuesday, 24 November 2026
6.30pm at the Victa Cinema
37 Ocean Street, Victor Harbor
Register: victor.sa.gov.au/elections
District Council of Yankalilla: Tuesday, 1 December 2026
6.00pm at the Council Chambers
1 Charles Street, Yankalilla
Register: yankalilla.sa.gov.au/council-elections
Alexandrina Council: Wednesday, 9 December 2026
5.30pm registration, 6.00pm start
Council Chambers, 11 Cadell Street, Goolwa
To register email: elections@alexandrina.sa.gov.au
Community members can also access information about voting, nominations and election eligibility through their council elections website or the Local Government Association of SA election website: councilelections.sa.gov.au
This content is authorised by: Chris White, 1 Bay Road, Victor Harbor SA 5211; Andrew MacDonald, 11 Cadell Street, Goolwa SA 5214; Nathan Cunningham, 1 Charles Street, Yankalilla SA 5203