Latrobe City Council by-election set for August

Wednesday 1 April 2026

For immediate release

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Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel is asking residents and ratepayers in Latrobe City Council’s Morwell River Ward to be ready to have their say in the by-election scheduled for August, following the resignation of Councillor Tracie Lund.

The by-election will be held by post.

'You must be correctly enrolled by the close of roll, which is 4 pm on Wednesday 20 May. As this is a postal election, it's important to check your address details are correct – this includes any alternative postal address,' Mr Bluemmel said.

'If you're an Australian citizen living in Morwell River Ward and you've recently turned 18 or moved, you can enrol or update your details online at vec.vic.gov.au/enrolment'

Ratepayers in Morwell River Ward can apply to the council to enrol by calling 1300 367 700. As long as they don't have another voting entitlement in Latrobe City Council and pay rates, property owners or occupiers and corporations can apply to be enrolled, even if they are not a citizen. Applications close at 4 pm on Wednesday 20 May.

Owner-ratepayers who were automatically enrolled in Morwell River Ward for the 2024 general election for Latrobe City Council will continue to be enrolled for the by-election, unless their circumstances have changed. Council-enrolled voters can check their enrolment by calling the council on 1300 367 700.

'Voting in local council elections is compulsory if you are enrolled. We encourage ratepayers who are eligible to apply to vote to participate in their democracy,' Mr Bluemmel said.

'Your local council makes important decisions about your community services and businesses, so it's important to have your say by voting in this by-election.'

Around 6,400 Victorians are enrolled in Morwell River Ward, which includes Yinnar, Hazelwood, Jeeralang, parts of Boolarra and surrounds.