The Tasmanian Government is backing in the local government sector by strengthening the framework foundation for council elections.
Open for public consultation from today, the reform will seek to increase transparency of political donations, strengthen advertising rules, and make changes to voter and candidate eligibility.
Acting Minister for Local Government, Eric Abetz, said the changes will establish a contemporary, flexible framework for the upcoming October 2026 council elections.
"The adjustments will address reform based on feedback from the Local Government Electoral Bill Discussion Paper from early 2025," Minister Abetz said.
"This reform is focussed on increasing transparency of campaign donations, establishing stronger electoral advertising requirements, providing new caretaker requirements and clarifying voter and candidate eligibility.
"Democracy is at the heart of our local communities, with voting in council elections influencing what local services are delivered for Tasmania.
"Community feedback on the draft legislation will help ensure Tasmanians can make an informed and meaningful choice when it is time to vote."
The draft Local Government Electoral Bill 2025 and supporting Local Government Amendment Bill are open for public consultation until midnight on Saturday 28 February 2026.
