The remote communities of Central Darling Shire in far west NSW will head to the polls on 20 September 2025 to elect council representatives for the first time in more than a decade.

This significant step marks the next chapter for the residents of Central Darling Shire and establishes the state’s first Rural and Remote Council, made possible by legislation passed in September 2024.

Under the new Rural and Remote Council model, the Shire will continue to function the same as all other councils but will have a different governance structure.

Three councillors will be elected by the community and three councillors will be appointed by the NSW Government. This mixed governance model will ensure the community has a voice on local issues and that the councillors have relevant expertise to support the stable and effective operation of the council.

To support Central Darling Shire Council’s transition back to elected representation and to set the Shire up for a more sustainable future, the Government has also committed $6 million in the 2025-26 State Budget.

This funding, to be delivered over two years, will assist the Council in achieving long-term financial stability by supporting capacity building and the delivery of essential local government services and infrastructure projects critical to the Shire’s future.

For more information about the ‘Rural and Remote Council’ model and the new way forward for Central Darling Shire Council, please access the following resources below,

• Access the media release here
• Access the FAQ document here
• Access the flyer here

If you wish to make a comment or have any further queries, you may write to olg@olg.nsw.gov.au.