Local Government (General) Regulations 2025 (TAS)

The Local Government (General) Regulations 2025 were made under the Local Government Act 1993. The Regulations detail the procedure for elections of the mayor and deputy mayor, the hearing and determination of election disputes, tendering and contracting processes, and rules regarding gifts and donations. This summary focuses on the election process and the handling of election disputes. The Regulations require the general manager to issue notices and nomination forms to all councillors before the nominating period. If multiple nominations are received for an office, a ballot must be conducted. The Regulations detail the voting procedure, the counting of votes, and the declaration of the result of the ballot. The Regulations also provide for the hearing and determination of election disputes, including the parties involved, the procedures for hearings, the admissibility of evidence, and the orders that the Supreme Court may make.

The Supreme Court has the authority to determine election disputes and make orders regarding the election of councillors, the declaration of elections as void, and the costs associated with election dispute proceedings. The Regulations outline the procedures for hearings, the admissibility of evidence, and the orders that the Supreme Court may make. The Supreme Court may not make an order declaring an election void due to immaterial errors or delays that did not affect the result of the election.

In summary, the Regulations provide a comprehensive framework for the conduct of elections and the handling of election disputes, ensuring a transparent, fair, and orderly process for the election of mayors and deputy mayors, and the resolution of any disputes that may arise.