Delivering reforms to councillor numbers and allowances

The Liberal Government is delivering for Tasmania by strengthening the local government sector.

Minister for Local Government, Kerry Vincent, has today released a discussion paper on proposed reforms to deliver more effective representation and fairer councillor pay.

“The discussion paper is part of the Government’s review into local councillor numbers and allowances,” Minister Vincent said.

“The Government is committed to improving local democracy and representation to better serve our communities, and has listened to the Local Government sector about these reforms.

“Councillors’ roles are increasingly complex, and we must fairly recognise their valuable service while attracting and retaining diverse, skilled representatives.

“Having the right number of councillors in a local government area is critical to ensuring effective governance, representation and service delivery.

“The proposed model would reduce the number of councillors across the State by 60, while supporting a minimum 14.25 per cent increase to all councillor allowances at no net cost to the Tasmanian community.

“We believe this would deliver a fair, appropriate, and cost-neutral pay increase for councillors.

“The review was a key recommendation of the Future of Local Government Review and will support and complement the Government’s broader efforts to strengthen the local government sector.”

The proposed reforms will lay the groundwork to attract and retain diverse, talented candidates for the October 2026 elections and beyond.

The discussion paper is available on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.

Feedback is invited until 7 November 2025.