TasFarmers Matters - Local councils where our democracy starts

Tasmania’s 2026 council elections will soon be under way across the state’s 29 local government areas, with candidate nominations now closed and postal ballots being delivered from October 5.

Voting is compulsory for electors on the state roll.

Why is it important to participate and engage in this democratic process?

Councils make decisions that directly affect household and business costs, local roads, waste services, planning, recreation and the way substantial amounts of public money are spent.

Being a councillor is not a popularity contest, and the ability to sing a good cabaret is no substitute for sound judgement, financial discipline and good governance.

Ratepayers deserve representatives who understand their role, ask difficult questions, scrutinise expenditure and hold council administrations to account for their decisions.

Rates, roads, rubbish and recreation may not sound glamorous, but they are among the everyday services communities expect councils to get right. 

Councils also have broader responsibilities across planning, development, and local infrastructure, like town halls.

This election is an opportunity to look closely at the people seeking to represent your community and consider what they believe council should focus on, how they approach rates and expenditure, and whether they are prepared to scrutinise decisions and demand value for ratepayers.

Whatever your municipality, look beyond the gang slogans, personalities and smiling faces being towed around town on trailers.

Good local government requires representatives who understand governance, respect public money and are prepared to ask whether council is focused on the things that matter to the community.

The principle of democracy makes our communities stronger, but it relies on people making informed decisions. Candidates are listed alphabetically on the Tasmanian Electoral Commission website, and each has the opportunity to provide a brief personal statement and photograph, which are included in mailouts sent to voters ahead of polling.

So, steal a snack from the pantry and sit down for a moment to consider their policy positions and ideas. Some will have their own Facebook pages and websites offering opinions, priorities and possibly even cake recipes. Importantly, where you can, judge them on their past actions, not just their words.

Councillors who put their hand up should expect to stand up to scrutiny. On the other side of the coin, we should also applaud those who are prepared to put themselves forward and serve their community.

So this election, let’s engage in the town square debate without turning it into a shouting match. Let’s avoid the outrage economy and keep these elections focused on a genuine marketplace of ideas, sensible policy proposals and a respectful contest over who should lead our communities.