Do Council Members receive their usual allowance while taking leave of absence?

Before party nominations close on Friday 27 February 2026, a Council Member can opt not to receive their allowance. The Council Member must inform Council’s Chief Executive Officer in writing if they choose this option.  If the Council Member doesn’t opt out, they will continue to receive their allowance until Friday 27 February 2026.

Allowance payments to a Council Member representing a political party in the state election will automatically cease when party nominations close on Friday 27 February 2026.

Allowance payments to Council Members resume when the election is over unless they are elected, and then they automatically cease holding office, creating a vacancy on Council.