Free read: The ultimate Southern Downs Regional Council election guide

Welcome to your ultimate guide to the 2024 local government elections in the Southern Downs and Goondiwindi regions, where you can find out who is standing as candidates, where and how to vote.

With the upcoming local council elections in March, we’ve got all the info you need including candidates, how to vote and locations for polling.

Southern Downs and Goondiwindi region voters will head to the polls alongside all Queenslanders on March 16 to determine who will represent them at a local level.

In Australia, voting is not only a right and a responsibility it is also compulsory for eligible Australian citizens aged 18 or older.

If you don’t vote, you may be fined, with fines starting at $66.

To learn more about the candidates for mayor and councillor in the Southern Downs and Goondiwindi regions, click here.

Here’s what you need to know.

HOW TO VOTE

Once you’ve ensured your enrolment information is accurate and up-to-date you can find out which candidate speaks to you the most.

Do your research and find out who is running for that seat and what they represent.

CANDIDATES FOR SOUTHERN DOWNS AND GOONDIWINDI REGIONAL ELECTIONS (PHOTOS: SUPPLIED/ FILE)

From there you can find out where your closest polling booth is here.

Polling is typically hosted in local schools or community halls.

For more election facts, head to the AEC website to find out more on common misinformation, frequently asked questions and background data.

PRE-POLLING

Early voting for the local government elections opens on Monday, March 4 and runs until Friday, March 15.

The official election day is Saturday, March 16, 2024 with all polling booths open from 8am to 6pm.

Anyone can submit a postal vote, but you have to apply and votes can only be submitted before 6pm on election day.

Postal votes are required to be returned by Tuesday, March 26, 2024. To apply for a postal vote, click here.

Early voting can be done at:

LG Returning Officer Southern Downs Early Voting Warwick Town Hall, 72 Palmerin St, Warwick, from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8 9am to 5pm and Monday, March 11 to Tursday March 14, 9am to 5pm as well as Friday March 15 from 9am to 6pm.

Early voting will also be open at Stanthorpe Early Voting Centre at St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, 2 Corundum St from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8, 9am to 5pm and Monday, March 11 to Tursday March 14, 9am to 5pm as well as Friday, March 15 from 9am to 6pm.

ELECTION DAY

Upon reaching the polling booth, proceed to the issuing officer’s table, where an election official will authenticate your identity before providing you with a ballot paper.

It might be necessary to verify your address, so ensure that your details are up-to-date with the Australian Electoral Commission during this process.

Following verification, you will be guided to a voting booth, allowing you to cast your ballot privately.

Take your time and carefully review the information on the ballot slip. Once you have completed your ballot paper/s, deposit them into the designated ballot box before exiting.

Polling officials will be present to offer assistance should you have any inquiries.

CANDIDATES

Find out more about your local council candidates and what they want for the region.

In our upcoming council election, a diverse array of candidates is vying for positions, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences.

From seasoned community leaders who weathered natural disasters and a pandemic to fresh faces, the list encompasses individuals committed to addressing local issues and fostering positive change.

Voters can anticipate a large selection, allowing them to choose representatives who align with their values and aspirations for the community’s future.

Here’s the main players:

For more in-depth information see our article below.

Southern Downs and Goondiwindi council elections: Your guide to who is running in 2024