Changes to How the Mayor is Elected from 2026
In South Australia, Mayors (also known as Principal Members) have traditionally been elected by fellow councillors following local government elections. This approach is changing.
From 2026, all South Australian councils will move to a system where the Mayor is directly elected by the community. This reform was legislated by the State Government and will apply to the District Council of Streaky Bay.
What Will Stay the Same
The District Council of Streaky Bay’s ward structure will remain unchanged.
Each ward will continue to be represented by four elected councillors, ensuring local representation from across the district.
What Will Change
Under the new arrangements, the Mayor will be elected by voters across the entire district, rather than being selected by councillors. The Mayor will represent the whole District Council area, providing district-wide leadership.
How Council Decisions Will Work
Under the legislated model:
- Councillors will continue to debate and vote on Council motions.
- The Mayor will not vote on motions in the ordinary course of decision-making.
- If a Council vote is tied, the Mayor will exercise a casting vote to determine the outcome.
This structure is designed to clearly separate the Mayor’s leadership role from ward-based representation, while still allowing the Mayor to resolve deadlocked decisions when required.
Further Information
Council has prepared a transition report outlining how these changes will be implemented locally.
Read the Transition Report Here
More information will be shared with the community as Council progresses toward the 2026 local government elections.