How to Work Out Who You’ll Vote For

This Saturday 4th December 2021 is Local Council Election Day. There are 17 candidates seeking election to the Yass Valley Council, which is made up of nine elected Councillors. Five of these candidates belong to the Greens and the remainder are standing as independents.

The first thing to do when deciding who to vote for is to be clear about the responsibilities of Council. Local Councils are responsible for:

• Public health (including health inspections of shops)
• Local roads and footpaths
• Street signs and bus stops
• Local kindergartens and pre-schools
• Local libraries
• Local sports fields and playgrounds
• Community services such as meals-on-wheels
• Building regulations and development
• Garbage collection.

The second thing voters should identify is what is important to them. Some people believe that the towns or locations that candidates live in are of prime importance: the rationale being that successful candidates will make sure that their hometowns/locations receive their fair share of resources. But is location the be all and end all? If you are passionate about environmental sustainability then it’s important to vote for candidates who share the same views. If you are passionate about diversity, then look at the diverse backgrounds and views of candidates and elect those who fit the bill. If you are concerned about administrative or political experience then look at the backgrounds of candidates to determine who you will vote for.

You can start your research on the candidates by going to the NSW Electoral Commission site, although you may be disappointed about the paucity of information required by the Commission and provided by some candidates. You can participate in “Meet the Candidate” events, such as the one held by Yass Rotary earlier this month. You can also get onto Facebook and search for each candidate. Most candidates have Facebook pages that allow people to see what makes them tick and what they can bring to office. You can also have a look at candidate information provided by the Yass Business Chamber: https://www.yassbusiness.com.au/2021-election

Whatever you do, don’t be complacent. Voting is a precious right, the pillar of democracy, and your voice, and the voice of your neighbours, really does count. Please be informed and make an informed decision.

• Topics:

• Elections
• Local Council