Political Parties & Candidates

This section contains information for political parties and candidates at State and local government elections.

State Elections

Candidates at State elections can find information on qualifications and the nomination and election process. Click here to view information for State election candidates

Candidates at State elections are required under Part VI of the Electoral Act 1907 to lodge a return disclosing gifts, income and expenditure in relation to their candidacy. Information on this process can be found under Financial Disclosure.

At the end of each financial year, the Electoral Commissioner is required under section 175ZG of the Electoral Act 1907 to prepare and submit a Political Finance Report to Parliament. This report provides information on annual disclosure returns lodged by political parties and associated entities, and, if an election has occurred, election disclosure returns lodged by candidates, groups, political parties and other persons.

Local Government Elections

Candidates at local government elections can find information on nominating and writing a candidate profile, financial disclosure, and other relevant information. Click here to view information for local government elections

Political Party Registration

The Electoral Act 1907 was amended in 2000 to provide for the registration of political parties. Part IIIA of the Electoral Act 1907 makes this provision. Eligible parties who have their application approved by the Electoral Commissioner may now be registered, enabling the use of a party name or abbreviation on the ballot paper. Click here for political party registration to find information on registration, the political party register, and a list of political parties currently registered.

Forms and Manuals

There are a range of forms and manuals which have application to State and local government elections. Click here to access forms and manuals.