Gold Coast Election Day 2022: Locals Head to the Polls

Gold Coasters on the beautiful Gold Coast are exercising their democratic rights today as they head to the polls to cast their votes in the 2022 local elections.

This year, 46 candidates are seeking voter support, with the spotlight on current Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate aiming for a historic fourth term. Tate faces tough competition from eight challengers – Eddy Sarroff, Virginia Freebody, Lavinia Rampino, Danielle Dunsmore, Rosie Foster, Jennifer Horsburgh, Gary Pead, and Brett Lambert.

The departure of long-term leaders in Divisions 2, 11, 12, and 13 ensures at least four new faces on the Gold Coast Council, adding an extra element of intrigue to this year’s election.

Simultaneously, Queensland’s current Premier Steven Miles faces a significant political test as voters participate in two state by-elections in the seats of Inala and Ipswich West, left vacant by former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk‘s departure.

While both by-elections are seemingly safe for the State Government, there are concerns over potential large swings against Labor in these areas.

As polling booths welcome voters, more than 115,000 locals have already cast their ballots, likely resulting in shorter wait times for those voting in person.

Results of the elections and by-elections will be published on the electoral commission website as votes are counted, determining the future leadership in the Gold Coast and Queensland political landscape.