FAQs
All aspects of the composition of the Council, including member numbers; and
The potential division of the Council area into wards (or to retain its existing no-ward structure); and
Whether it wishes to change the name of the Council.
Demographic trends;
Population data and projections
Communities of interest; and
Elector representation and ward quotas
Promotes a holistic approach to decision making, ensuring that the needs of the entire community are considered when making decisions;
Provides voters with the opportunity to choose from a greater choice of candidates;
Facilitates diverse representation from various backgrounds, interests and locations, ensuring a broad range of perspectives are considered in decision making;
Is most suitable for the City of Victor Harbor, noting that the small size of the Council area coupled with the lack of distinct townships makes the division of wards impractical at this stage.
What is a Representation Review?
A representation review is a process for determining whether Council would benefit from altering its current composition or ward structure to meet future requirements.
When did Council last undertake a Representation Review?
The City of Victor Harbor undertook its last Representation review during 2016/2017, with the outcome of that review taking effect from the Local Government elections in 2018.
Councils in South Australia are required to undertake a review of their elector representation arrangements under the Local Government Act 1999 approximately every eight (8) years.
What is the existing composition of Council?
Council is currently comprised of the Mayor, elected by electors for the area as a whole, and nine (9) Council Members, elected by the electors of the area as a whole.
What process does the review need to follow?
The process for a Representation Review requires Council to undertake the following steps:
1. Initiate Representation Review process and Council to consider current arrangements and proposed composition
2. Prepare draft Representation Review Report for adoption and public consultation
3. Finalise Representation Review Report based on public feedback from consultation for Council adoption
4. Submit final Representation Review Report to Electoral Commissioner of South Australia for certification
5. Publish final composition and structure in the Government Gazette
6. Implement changes from the November 2026 Local Government elections.
What principles need to be considered?
The Council will be required to consider:
What matters are taken into account in the Representation Review?
Council is required to take the following matters into account in conducting the Representation Review:
How was my feedback from the initial consultation considered?
During Council’s review of the responses received during the initial consultation in September, it became clear that many of the community’s concerns about the current Council structure would not be remedied by the introduction of wards at this time.
Retaining the current structure: