Consultation on boosting community engagement with local government has been extended until the end of March.

Minister for Local Government Geoff Brock MP launched the consultation in October for South Australians to have their say on the future of council elections and better community representation and engagement.

It was scheduled to close at the end of February but has been extended by a month to enable more people to make a submission.

The Local Government Participation and Elections Review is looking at ways to boost voter turnout and tackle historically low engagement, with only about 30 per cent of South Australians voting in their local council elections. This figure is closer to 50 per cent on the Fleurieu.

Some of the suggestions made so far include limiting the number of terms councillors can serve; making voting compulsory; and changing the timing of elections.

Councils in metropolitan and regional areas have submitted their feedback, including the City of Victor Harbor.

Its submission says the money paid to councillors should increase to attract a more diverse range of people, not only those who are retired or unemployed.

“Allowances should be increased, this would enable a broader, more diverse range of candidates who could afford to give up or reduce any work commitments to enable them to be a Council Member. 

“Candidates should also be required to undertaken pre- enrolment training about the role of a Council Member for before they nominate.”

The council suggests more detailed and consistent information about the candidates should be publicised during the election. 

This could include professional experience, relevant skills, political affiliations, formal qualifications and training, funding sources and community links.

Minister Brock has called on people who want change in local government to use the extra time to have their say. 

“The feedback we receive will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of how council elections are held across the state and how people engage with their local council throughout their four-year terms. 

“This review will help councils connect with their constituents and ensure elected members represent the most diverse and capable voices in their communities. 

“Engaging and listening to residents beyond the election cycle is also important, so changes that could be rolled out year-round will also be strongly considered.”

The Local Government Participation and Elections Review Discussion Paper is available on the Your Say website, where ideas can be submitted.

Consultation closes on Thursday 28 March with outcomes set to be published mid-year.