Council candidate shortage: 14 NSW local government areas will have no vote on September 14

What happened?

There is a candidate shortage for the upcoming local government elections in New South Wales, Australia. This has resulted in 14 local government areas (LGAs) having no candidates running for election, meaning that residents in these areas will not be able to vote on September 14.

What are the reasons for the shortage?

There are a number of reasons for the candidate shortage, including a lack of awareness about the role of local government, the time commitment required, and the potential for conflict and abuse. The Local Government Association of NSW has called on the state government to do more to promote local government and encourage people to run for office.

What are the implications of the shortage?

The candidate shortage has a number of implications, including the potential for undemocratic outcomes, increased voter apathy, and a lack of accountability for local government. It is important to note that the candidate shortage is not unique to NSW, and is a problem that is being faced by local governments across Australia.

What can be done to address the shortage?

There are a number of things that can be done to address the candidate shortage, including increasing awareness about the role of local government, reducing the time commitment required, and providing better support for candidates. It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the best approach will vary depending on the specific circumstances of each LGA.