Under the Local Government Act 1995 (Act), Ordinary local elections are held every two years on the third Saturday in October. Council members are elected for a term of four years.
Further information regarding local government elections can be found at the following websites:
When is election day?
Saturday, 18 October 2025
When can someone nominate to be a candidate?
Nominations open on Thursday, 28 August 2025 and close at 4:00PM on Thursday, 4 September 2025.
When is an election declared?
If the number of nominations is greater than the number of vacancies, an election will be declared.
When does the poll close?
6:00PM on Saturday, 18 October 2025.
When are votes counted?
From 6:00PM onwards on Saturday 18 October 2025
When are the election results announced?
As soon as practicable, after election day.
Where can I vote?
The 2025 Local Government Election for the Shire of Merredin will be conducted by postal voting. Postal votes can be returned to the Shire of Merredin Administration Building before 6:00PM on Saturday, 18 October 2025.
When will I receive the voting papers?
Election voting papers are due to be sent out on Friday, 12 September 2025.
What is the system for counting votes?
TBC
Who is the Returning Officer?
The Western Australian Electoral Commission has appointed the Returning Officer. The contact details below will be active from 15 August 2025.
Name: Wendy Porter
Email: LGro_Merredin@elections.wa.gov.au
Phone: 0438 065 610
Does the Shire have wards?
No.
What do I do if I don't receive my ballot papers?
Please call the Shire’s Governance team on 08 9041 1611 to request replacement ballot papers.
If I own multiple properties in the Shire, can I vote more than once?
No, an individual cannot vote multiple times.
Why do I have to provide a copy of my lease, tenancy agreement, etc?
Under the Local Government Act 1995 and the Local Government (Elections) Regulations 1997 the Chief Executive Officer can make inquires to determine a person's eligibility for enrolment, including asking for a copy of a lease or tenancy agreement to support a claim for enrolment.