Referendums

A council may resolve to conduct a constitutional referendum on any of the following issues:

• Determine whether or not the mayor is to be popularly elected;
• Increase or reduce the number of councillors;
• Divide the council area into wards or abolish all wards; and
• To change the method of election of ward councillors.

Voting on a referendum issue is compulsory. Electors are required to indicate on the ballot paper either ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to answer the referendum question.

The result of the referendum is binding on the council and is put in place at the following election. 

Sample council referendum paper

Directions for voting

The questions require a “YES” or “NO” answer. If you decide to answer “YES” to a question, write the word “YES” in the space provided opposite the question. If you decide to answer “NO” to a question, write the word “NO” in the space provided opposite the question.

Polls (plebiscites)

A poll may be held in conjunction with a local government election on any issue. Local councils can hold a poll to test whether people either support or oppose a proposed action on an issue.

Voting on a poll issue is not compulsory. The result of the poll is not binding on the council.

Sample council poll paper

Directions for voting

The questions require a “YES” or “NO” answer. If you decide to answer “YES” to a question, write the word “YES” in the space provided opposite the question. If you decide to answer “NO” to a question, write the word “NO” in the space provided opposite the question.