Council Candidates Show Strong Support for LGBTIQA+ Inclusion

Media Release
Saturday October 17th 2026

Council Candidates Show Strong Support for LGBTIQA+ Inclusion

Equality Tasmania has thanked the 133 local government candidates who have completed its candidate survey. The results so far show strong support for LGBTIQA+ inclusion across Tasmania’s councils.

The 133 respondents make up 30% of the 441 candidates contesting this year’s elections, and come from 24 of Tasmania’s 29 councils. The survey asks candidates about council inclusion policies, consultation with local LGBTIQA+ communities and their personal commitment to equality.

Of the candidates who have responded:

  • 99% committed to not promoting prejudice, discrimination or hate against LGBTIQA+ Tasmanians.
  • 63% supported all ten proposed council measures for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
  • 95% supported making council services inclusive of LGBTIQA+ people, and 94% supported staff training.
  • 92% supported LGBTIQA+ action plans for their council.

The survey remains open to candidates, and the results remain public until the close of voting at 2 pm on Tuesday 27 October.

Equality Tasmania board member Anthony Crawford said:

“We thank every candidate who has taken the time to complete the survey. Their answers give the community a clear picture of how they would approach LGBTIQA+ inclusion on council.”

“It is encouraging that so many candidates, from every corner of the state, support practical steps like inclusive services, staff training and action plans.”

“Although some Tasmanians may have voted. For those who haven’t, the results are a useful guide to where candidates in their area stand, and we encourage them to take a look before filling in their ballot.”

“The survey is still open, and we encourage any candidate who hasn’t yet responded to do so. It is not too late to let voters know where you stand.”

“Local government plays a really important role in fostering inclusion at a grassroots level, and the decisions of the new councils will affect LGBTIQA+ Tasmanians every day.”

Tasmanian councils that have developed and released LGBTIQA+ action plans include Kingborough, Glenorchy, Hobart, Burnie and Launceston.

The survey results, including each candidate’s published responses, and the link for candidates to complete the survey can be found here: https://equalitytasmania.org.au/lgacandidatesurvey/

For more information contact Anthony Crawford on 0412 763 863