The residents of Central Darling Shire will participate in a landmark democratic process on Saturday, September 20, marking the first council election in over ten years following an extended period of administration.

This historic election will establish New South Wales' inaugural Rural and Remote Council, following the passage of enabling legislation in September 2024.

Under this innovative governance model, the community will elect three councillors to represent their interests, whilst maintaining the standard operational functions of local government with enhanced structural support.

The electoral process has been facilitated by significant government investment, with the NSW Government committing $6 million over two years to ensure a smooth transition from administration to elected representation and to establish sustainable financial foundations for the council's future operations.

Eligible residents were required to complete their enrolment by 6:00 PM on Monday, 11 August 2025, to participate in this significant milestone for local democracy in the region.

Voting will be conducted between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on election day, with pre-polling available from Monday, September 15 to Friday, September 19 for those unable to attend on Saturday.

All Australian citizens aged 18 and over enrolled in the shire are legally required to vote. Residents may choose to vote in person, apply for postal voting through elections.nsw.gov.au if unable to access polling places, or utilise telephone voting if they are blind or have low vision.

When voting, residents will receive one councillor ballot paper and must number at least two candidates in order of preference, though they may preference as many candidates as they wish.