What is a ward?

    A ward is a local government area that’s divided typically for voting purposes and electoral requirements. A Local Government Area is divided into sections based on the number of people on the electoral roll. Wards generally have even numbers of enrolled voters. Anyone on the electoral role is required to vote for Councillors to represent the ward they live in.


    What wards currently exist in Wollongong Local Government Area?

    The Wollongong Local Government Area is divided into 3 Wards: 

    • Ward 1 covers from Helensburgh down south to North Wollongong
    • Ward 2 is from Wollongong from the east to Mt Keira/Mt Kembla to the west, and goes as far down as Unanderra to the South
    • Ward 3 covers the catchment of Port Kembla from the east down to Yallah and west to the Wongawilli escarpment.

    How will the changes affect me?

    Residents impacted by the new boundaries will need to vote in their new ward at the upcoming local government elections to be held in September, 2020.


    Why do the boundaries need to change?

    Over the past 5 years there has been an increase of residential growth in some parts of the city which has resulted in a 12% variance between Ward’s 1 & 3. 

    If Council becomes aware that a variation of greater than 10% exists, then we must alter our ward boundaries to reduce the difference in elector numbers below 10%.

    What changes are being proposed to the wards in the Wollongong Local Government Area?

    Most residents will not be impacted by the changes which will only affect approximately 4% of enrolled electors.

    The changes to the boundary between Wards 1 and 2 will affect a small number of residents in North Wollongong, Fairy Meadow and Balgownie.

    The changes to the boundary between Wards 2 and 3 will affect residents in parts of Figtree, Unanderra, and Farmborough Heights.