The Local Government Association of South Australia (LGASA) has commissioned two in-depth surveys as part of the analysis of the 2014 Local Government Elections.
LGASA President, Mayor David O’Loughlin said while voter turnout exceeded the number who voted in 2010, the LGASA sought voter and candidate views after each election.
“We will be conducting comprehensive survey and review work as part of our analysis of the results.
“The Minister for Local Government has flagged a review of the Local Government Act and the Premier has indicated his interest in assisting to raise voter participation with the possibility of concurrent State and Local
government elections.
“All possibilities will be canvassed and we will conduct a comprehensive public survey, similar to those in 2006 and 2010, to gauge the feelings of our communities, including why they chose to vote or not to vote.”
The LGASA announced they will be surveying all the candidates who took part in the election as well.
Mayor O’Loughlin said the Electoral Commission of SA would also be conducting a comprehensive review of the elections.
“Between the LGA surveys and the ECSA review I am sure that we will get a very good picture of response to Local Government Elections from
all perspectives.”
The LGA, ECSA and the Office of Local Government will share responses to maximise information available for reviewing the legislation.
“The 31 percent interim voter return in 2014 is marginally below returns in the past two Local Government elections but can be put into perspective when we look at the United States mid-term polls for its national Congress which recorded a voter turnout of only 36.6 .
“When you consider the significance of voting in the US Congressional elections, the fact that at least 31 percent returned a voluntary vote for SA Council elections, is on a par with volunteer voter response in other parts of the free world.”
