Referendum

A local government council may elect to conduct a referendum and, on most occasions this is in conjunction with a local government election. A referendum can only be held about the following:

• the number of councillors
• the establishment or abolition of wards
• mayoral election
• distribution of councillors across wards.

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.

Poll (plebiscite)

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.