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:
The 2026 Local Government Extraordinary Elections will be held on Thursday 24 September 2026.
When is election day?
Election day for the 2026 Local Government Extraordinary Elections is Thursday 24 September 2026.
When can someone nominate to be a candidate?
Nominations Open on Tuesday 4 August 2026.
Nominations Close at 4:00pm on Tuesday 11 August 2026
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 24 September 2026 (if applicable).
When are votes counted?
TBC
When are the election results announced?
As soon as practicable, after election day.
Where can I vote?
TBC
When will I receive the voting papers?
DATE TBC.
What is the system for counting votes?
TBC
Who is the Returning Officer?
TBC
Does the Shire have wards?
No, the Shire of Merredin does not have wards.
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.