The Northern Territory Government has announced changes to the Local Government (Electoral) Regulations to change the vote counting system to the Single Transferable Vote Proportional Representation (STVPR) system.

 

Local Government Minister, Malarndirri McCarthy said the STVPR system is the most suitable vote counting system for the Territory’s multi-member electorates. With the exception of Litchfield Council, all councils have multimember electorates.

 

“After the 2008 elections we sought expert advice to review and identify ways of improving election processes and undertook widespread consultation on the proposed change to vote counting,” said Minister McCarthy.

 

‘The change to the STVPR system was supported by the majority of local governments and will not change the way you vote on polling day.

 

“Candidates who receive a number of first preference votes equal to or greater than the quota required are elected immediately.

 

“Preference votes are then taken into consideration to fill any remaining vacancies at a proportionate value.

 

“This change is an example of the Government’s Territory 2030 commitment to a strong and vibrant democracy, through strong and representative local governments.”