Nominations now open - 2025 Local Government Elections

Voters will vote to elect their local government representatives.

There will be 54 elections held for 144 vacancies in 16 local government councils across the Northern Territory.

Territorians interested in standing as a candidate are encouraged to act early. Nominations will close strictly at 12 noon on Thursday 31 July 2025. No late nominations can be accepted.

NT Electoral Commissioner Kirsten Kelly is encouraging potential candidates to take advantage of the resources available.

“Whether you’re passionate about your local community or looking to make a difference through local leadership, now is the time to get involved. The NT Electoral Commission website offers a comprehensive guide to the nomination process and our team is available to answer any questions,” said Ms Kelly.

The official declaration of nominations and ballot draw to determine the candidates order on ballot papers will occur on Friday 1 August 2025.

A number of voting options are available to support participation in the election including:

• Early voting will be available from Monday 11 August to Friday 22 August 2025 at early voting centres across the NT.
• Remote and urban mobile voting service delivery will run from Monday 11 August to Saturday 23 August 2025 in scheduled communities and urban locations.
• Postal voting is available now, key deadlines are:
  • Overseas applications close at 6pm on Tuesday 19 August 2025.
  • Domestic applications close at 6pm on Thursday 21 August 2025.

On Election Day (Saturday 23 August), voting centres will be open between 8am and 6pm.

Territorians are encouraged to make sure they are correctly enrolled by the close of roll deadline of 5pm on Tuesday 22 July 2025. Enrolment checks can be completed online through the Australian Electoral Commision website.

The NT Electoral Commission is working with councils across the Northern Territory to raise awareness and support voter participation.

More information about key dates, how to nominate, and where to vote can be found at the NT Electoral Commission website or call 1800 698 683.

Voting in the 2025 Local Government Elections is compulsory.