2026 Media statements
January
A by-election to choose a new councillor for Mapoon Aboriginal Shire will be held on Saturday 21 February 2026. Around 250 people enrolled in Mapoon will go to the polls.
The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) confirmed the date, and Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said nominations for the councillor position are now open. He encourages anyone interested in representing their community to nominate before 12 noon on Thursday 29 January 2026.
“When nominating, several important steps must be taken, so I urge anyone interested to do this as soon as possible,” Mr Vidgen said.
Potential candidates must make sure they are eligible to nominate, pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free ‘So you want to be a councillor’ online training through the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers website.
More information for candidates is available on the Election Participants page of the ECQ’s website.
Mr Vidgen also reminded Mapoon residents about the importance of making sure they are correctly enrolled to vote.
“If you have changed your address or are enrolling to vote for the first time you must update your details by Tuesday 27 January 2026,” Mr Vidgen said.
“This is an important step to ensure your voice will be heard on election day.”
To enrol to vote, check your enrolment or update your details, visit the Australian Electoral Commission’s website.
The by-election arose due to the resignation of Councillor Maria Pitt on 18 December 2025.
Keep up to date with the Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council by-election at the ECQ’s website or on social media @electoralcommissionqld. You can also call us on 1300 881 665 for more information.
ENDS
Media Contact: media@ecq.qld.gov.au or 0438 129 699
Background
- Notice of election – Tuesday 20 January 2026
- Close of roll – Tuesday 27 January 2026
- Close of nominations and ballot draw – Thursday 29 January 2026
- Close of postal vote requests – Monday 9 February at 7pm
- Early voting opens – Wednesday 18 February 2026
- Election Day –Saturday 21 February 2026
- Return of postal ballot cut-off –5pm Tuesday 3 March 2026