Today, Monday 7 November, is the last day to post local government voting papers to ensure the Electoral Commission receives them in time.

So far only a quarter of eligible voters across the state have lodged a vote, according to SA Electoral Commission figures published on Friday 4 November.

This compares with the already low final result of 33 per cent at the 2018 local government elections.

Voting figures for the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island councils are higher than the state average, but still well down on the 2018 figures.

Alexandrina Council voting numbers are at 34 per cent so far, with the highest turnout, 38 per cent, in Alexandrina South ward.

Kangaroo Island Council voting figures are at 41 per cent, one of the highest in South Australia.

In contrast the City of Onkaparinga has one of the lowest voting rates in the state, at less than 19 per cent.

The City of Victor Harbor has recorded a 35 per cent turnout so far.

Although the District Council of Yankalilla’s voting tally sits at just under 42 per cent there is a huge difference between the urban and rural wards.

Light ward has recorded 47 per cent while the Field ward turnout is only 35 per cent.

Voting in local government elections is not compulsory in South Australia, but is important for those who want to have a say on how local decisions are made and what happens in their local community.

Councils are responsible for delivering a wide range of community services, and make important decisions relating to budgets, projects and local initiatives.

At the close of voting In 2018 Alexandrina recorded 42.6 percent; KI recorded 66.6 per cent; Onkaparinga recorded 26.3 per cent; Victor Harbor recorded 52.1 per cent; and Yankalilla recorded 49.4 per cent.

In 2022, voting closes at 5pm on Thursday 10 November. Those who miss the post may be able to drop their ballot papers at their local council offices.

For full details of the South Australian local government elections visit the SA Electoral Commission website.