Banyule City Council by-election set for October

Friday 10 July 2026

For immediate release

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Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel is asking residents and ratepayers in Banyule City Council, Beale Ward to be ready to have their say in the by-election scheduled for October, following the resignation, of Councillor Elizabeth Nealy. The by election will be held by post.

‘You must be correctly enrolled by the close of roll, which is 4 pm on Wednesday 22 July. As this is a postal election, it’s important to check your address details are correct – this includes any alternative postal address,’ Mr Bluemmel said. 

‘If you’re an Australian citizen living in Beale Ward and you’ve recently turned 18 or moved, you can enrol or update your details online at vec.vic.gov.au/enrolment’

Ratepayers in Beale Ward can apply to the council to enrol by calling 9490 4222. As long as they don’t have another voting entitlement in Banyule City Council and pay rates, property owners or occupiers and corporations can apply to be enrolled, even if they are not a citizen. Applications close at 4 pm on Wednesday 22 July.

Owner-ratepayers, occupier-ratepayers, or a director or company secretary of a corporation of a property who were automatically enrolled in Beale Ward for the 2024 general election for Banyule City Council will continue to be enrolled for the by-election, unless their circumstances have changed. Council-enrolled voters can check their enrolment by calling the council on 9490 4222. 

‘Voting in local council elections is compulsory if you are enrolled. We encourage ratepayers who are eligible to apply to vote to participate in their democracy,’ Mr Bluemmel said.

‘Your local council makes important decisions about your community services and businesses, so it’s important to have your say by voting in this by-election.’

Around 10,334 Victorians are enrolled in Beale ward, which includes parts of Briar Hill, St Helena and surrounds.