Council Elections Postponed

Published on 26 March 2020

This year's council elections have been postponed due to health and safety concerns caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The NSW Government has passed amendments to the Local Government Act that allows the elections to be deferred for 12 months in the face of the COVID-19 crisis.

Snowy Valleys Council CEO Matthew Hyde said he had been advised by the Office of Local Government this week about the changes.

“The decision provides certainty for our current Councillors, as well as our community and election candidates and we will continue to await further advice from the OLG,” he said.

Snowy Valleys Council Mayor James Hayes and Deputy Mayor John Larter who were elected in September 2019 will continue to hold office until September 2021 once the new election date is gazetted.

Mayor Hayes said, “Council will continue to represent the community to the best of our abilities and for the best interest of our communities.

“Local government elections are a vital part of the democratic process and we understand the decision to postpone wasn’t taken lightly and we appreciate the government taking into account the safety and health of our communities in their decision making,” he said.

“This is a turbulent time and we really need to band together to help each other out just like we did in the bushfire crisis. 

“While it is essential that we all comply with restrictions on gatherings and social distancing requirements to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 if you can  help someone with accessing on-line resources, or dropping off some shopping please do so if you are able,” Cr Hayes encouraged.

“As more facilities and services are closed due to the pandemic it becomes more important than ever that we look after our neighbours and those more vulnerable in our community.

“In the meantime Council will continue as far as is possible with the normal day to day business of advocating for our communities, listening to public concerns and ensuring Snowy Valleys Council continue on their journey of improvement.”