Pre-poll voting for the City of Newcastle (CN) Lord Mayor by-election opens this weekend, giving residents an early opportunity to have their say ahead of election day.
From Saturday 11 April, voting is compulsory for all enrolled electors within the CN Local Government Area (LGA).
And, with the by-election fast approaching, voters are being reminded to plan ahead and ensure they are prepared to cast their ballot.
Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming Newcastle Lord Mayor by-election, which takes place on Saturday 18 April, and how pre-polling works.
Why did the election occur?
Less than a month after returning to the role, Newcastle Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge resigned on 9 February 2026 to focus on his health. Cr Kerridge had been diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma and briefly stepped down in October 2025 for treatment before resuming his duties on 19 January. In his resignation statement, he said while his treatment was progressing well, the side effects made it impossible to continue with the full responsibilities of the role. His resignation triggered the by-election to elect a new Lord Mayor.
What is pre-polling?
Pre-polling is an opportunity for voters to cast their ballots ahead of the official election day. It allows residents who may be unable to attend on election day to vote early, ensuring everyone enrolled has the chance to participate.
Who can pre-poll?
All enrolled electors within the City of Newcastle LGA can vote at pre-poll. Residents are encouraged to check their enrolment details and plan ahead to make sure they can vote smoothly.
When and where is pre-polling?
Pre-poll voting opens on Saturday 11 April and continues from Monday 13 April to Friday 17 April. Voting will be available at Adamstown Senior Citizen Centre, Fletcher Community Centre, Mayfield Church of Christ, New Lambton Community Centre, Newcastle City Hall and St Lukes Wallsend Coad Hall. Details on opening hours and accessibility are available on the NSW Electoral Commission website.
What was the order of the ballot draw?
The official ballot draw took place on Thursday 19 March. Socialist Alliance candidate Stephen O’Brien secured the top spot, followed by Independent Gavin Morris, Greens’ Charlotte McCabe, Liberal’s Jenny Barrie, Labor’s Declan Clausen and Independent Milton Caine.
Who are the candidates?
Six candidates are contesting the by-election, representing a mix of political parties and independent platforms. Socialist Alliance candidate Steve O’Brien is a lifelong trade unionist, while independent Gavin Morris brings more than 30 years of experience in the media, including 16 years with NBN News. Greens candidate Charlotte McCabe is a current City of Newcastle councillor serving her second term. Liberal candidate Jennifer Barrie, also a current councillor, was re-elected to represent Ward 2 in 2024 after first being elected in 2021. Labor candidate Declan Clausen is also serving as a Newcastle councillor, while independent Milton Caine is the president of Christians for Community.
For more news stories:
- Port of Newcastle sets new record for diversified trade volumes in 2025
- Man charged after fatal stabbing in coastal suburb
- Women in stable condition after scuba diving incident at Nelson Bay
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
