In November, Onkaparinga’s communities will get the chance to decide who will lead and guide their neighbourhoods over the next 4 years.
But while voting in the council election will close on 11 November, the deadlines to make sure you’re enrolled to vote (31 July) – or nominate to become a councillor (8 September) – are approaching much sooner. Details on each election stage are listed below.
Voting in council elections isn’t compulsory, and in the City of Onkaparinga’s most recent election (2022), only 24.8 per cent of people who were eligible to vote actually did so, compared to the metropolitan council average of 29.6 per cent.
Your community is worth it, and this year’s council election is your chance to shape Onkaparinga’s future, with local government decisions affecting everyday life – from roads and parks to libraries and community services.
Make sure you’re enrolled to vote
The first step to participating in Onkaparinga’s 2026 election is to make sure you’re enrolled, which is particularly important if you’ve recently moved house or changed your name.
If you live, own property or run a business in Onkaparinga, you may be eligible to vote.
Enrolments close at 5pm on Friday 31 July, and you must be on the South Australian electoral roll to take part.
If you’re enrolled to vote in SA state elections, you’ll automatically be enrolled to vote, but if you need to update details such as your address, or just want to check for peace of mind, head to the Australian Electoral Commission’s website – it takes just a few minutes.
Nominate to be a councillor
Voting is one way to shape your community – but nominating for Council is another.
Becoming a councillor is one of the most direct ways to influence the future of your community, and councillors work together to make strategic decisions about the services, facilities and developments that affect everyday life.
Importantly, you don’t need to be a politician – you just need to be someone who cares about your community.
One of the biggest opportunities in local elections is ensuring councils reflect the communities they represent.
A diverse council – containing people with different skills, backgrounds and perspectives – is better equipped to understand the needs of families, young people, older residents, small businesses and community groups.
That’s why community-minded people from all walks of life are encouraged to consider nominating. Nominations open on Tuesday 25 August, and close at midday on Tuesday 8 September.
The official council elections website has a wealth of information about eligibility, how to nominate, how councils work, preparing your election materials, how to run a campaign, and campaign laws and regulations.
Vote!
Make your voice heard and shape your world by making sure to vote!
Voting in the 2026 council elections will close at 5pm on Wednesday 11 November, and ballot packs will be mailed to voters between 15–21 October.
Unlike state or federal elections, council voting in SA is done by post, making it easy to participate from home. Some voters may also be eligible to vote by telephone.
Each ballot pack will include your ballot papers, candidate information and instructions on how to complete your vote.
You’ll have the chance to vote for the 2 candidates who you’d like to see become councillors for your ward, and to vote for the candidate who you’d like to become Onkaparinga’s mayor.
Read the candidate information carefully, fill out your ballot papers and sign them before placing them in the declaration envelope, which you can post using the reply-paid envelope provided.
Because voting is done by post, it’s important to complete and return your ballot in plenty of time.
For more information on South Australian council elections, visit the official website.
This content is authorised by City of Onkaparinga CEO, Sharon Mason, Ramsay Pl, Noarlunga Centre SA 5168.