Countback process dates given

Published on 09 May 2025

The countback process to fill the Councillor vacancy on MidCoast Council is now underway by the NSW Electoral Commission.

The vacancy was created by the resignation of Dheera Smith, who stepped down due to health reasons last month.

Instead of holding a costly by-election (estimated at around $700,000), a countback process will be undertaken, as agreed when the current Council was formed. This method applies to any Councillor departures within the first 18 months of the term.

Officials will contact any unelected candidates from the last election who may still be eligible. Those interested must submit a formal application to be considered.

The countback will be based on the original election votes, taking into account the preferences voters selected at that time.

Key dates for the countback:

• Thursday, 15 May – Candidate applications close, and the electoral roll will be finalised.
• Tuesday, 20 May – Eligible candidates will be officially declared.
• Wednesday, 21 May – The original votes will be recounted using voters’ preferences, and the results will be announced.