Residents across NSW will head to the polls today to have their say on who will represent them in local councils over the next four years.
Local government elections are being held today for all but one of the state's 128 councils.
Three local government areas - Central Coast, Wingecarribee Shire and Balranald Shire will also return to having democratically elected councillors after periods of administration.
There are 3,889 candidates vying for 1,289 councillor positions across the state, an increase from the last council elections held in 2021.
Communities in 37 local government areas will also be voting for their Mayor, while all other councils will hold a vote to elect a Mayor once new councillors are sworn in.
Uncontested elections, where only the required number of candidates or less have nominated have been declared for a small number of local government areas and wards, and nominated candidates in those locations will be elected unopposed.
Voting in the NSW local government elections is compulsory, and fines apply. To find your nearest voting centre, use the NSW Electoral Commission electorate search tool: https://elections.nsw.gov.au/elections/find-my-electorate
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:
"Democracy is a vital part of our society and exercising your right to vote is an important responsibility.
"Today is a chance for the people of NSW to have their voice heard about who they want to represent their local interests and make their community a better place.
"I urge voters to familiarise themselves with their local candidates and what they stand for so they can make an informed decision at the polling booth.
"As someone who served in local government for over 30 years, I can attest that being a councillor is an honour that carries significant responsibility.
"Councils invest more than $15 billion each year delivering services and around $7 billion on infrastructure and community facilities.
"We need to elect councillors who are competent and hard-working so make your vote today count."
