First-term councillor cites extended travel requirements as council begins countback process

Broken Hill City councillor Ashley Byrne has resigned from his position effective immediately, with work commitments requiring him to be away from the city for extended periods.

The first-term councillor announced his resignation on Friday, prompting council to contact the NSW Electoral Commission to initiate a countback process to fill the vacant position.

In a statement, Mr Byrne said serving the community had been "one of the greatest honours" of his life.

"I am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent a community I care so deeply about," he said.

"Unfortunately, my work roster will now require me to be out of town for extended periods, so I am no longer able to give the duties of councillor the time, attention, and presence it deserves."

The resignation creates the first vacancy on the current Broken Hill City Council term.

Under NSW electoral law, the position will be filled through a countback process conducted by the Electoral Commission, which examines preference flows from the most recent election to determine the replacement councillor.

Mr Byrne expressed his continued commitment to the community despite stepping down from elected office.

"This community shaped who I am and my belief in the city's potential is as strong as ever," he said.

"I look forward to continuing contributing to the community in other ways outside of office."

The countback process typically takes several weeks to complete once initiated by the Electoral Commission.

The successful candidate will serve the remainder of Mr Byrne's term.

Broken Hill City Council has not indicated when the countback process is expected to conclude.