South Australia’s next First Nations Voice to Parliament elections, set for 2026, are an important milestone for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the state. As the first state-based Voice to Parliament in the country, the SA Voice provides a formal, elected, and accountable way for First Nations communities to offer advice directly to the South Australian Parliament and Government.
These elections are an opportunity to strengthen community representation and ensure local priorities are brought to the decision-making table.
The SA Voice is made up of multiple Local First Nations Voices, each representing a defined region. Members are elected by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in those regions, creating a structure that is community-driven, regionally informed, and grounded in cultural knowledge.
While the Voice does not have veto power or law-making authority, its advisory role is significant, shaping discussions, influencing policy, and ensuring First Nations perspectives are heard at all levels of government.
As the 2026 elections approach, it’s vital to understand the processes, timelines, and opportunities for participation. Eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voters can nominate for positions or cast their vote for candidates they feel best represent their community’s needs, values, and aspirations.
Strong voter participation adds legitimacy, credibility, and diversity to the Voice, ensuring it can speak clearly and confidently on behalf of the communities it represents.
With multiple voting options, including polling booths, early voting, postal votes, mobile polling, and phone voting for eligible people with impairments, the election is designed to ensure accessible participation. Key dates such as nomination periods and enrolment deadlines help ensure that everyone who wants to take part has the opportunity to do so.
The 2026 SA Voice elections are a chance to shape the future of First Nations representation in South Australia.
Whether you’re planning to nominate, vote, or help spread the word, your involvement strengthens the Voice from the ground up. A strong Voice starts with an informed and engaged community.
Reconciliation SA is committed to providing clear, accessible public education about the SA Voice, its purpose, and the upcoming elections. It’s important to note that Reconciliation SA is not part of the Voice, does not run or manage the election process, and has no control over its operations.
Our role is simply to support community understanding by sharing factual, publicly available information.
About the SA Voice: https://www.firstnationsvoice.sa.gov.au/about
How the Voice works: https://www.firstnationsvoice.sa.gov.au/about/how-does-the-voice-work
2026 SA Voice Elections: https://www.firstnationsvoice.sa.gov.au/about/2026-SA-Voice-Elections