Local government is one of the three levels of government in Australia. The Constitution Act 1934 (SA) provides a constitutional guarantee for the continued existence of local government in South Australia [s 64A].

Much of South Australia is divided into local geographical areas (known as local government areas), each governed by an individual elected authority, known as a council. Council activities include waste and recycling, local environmental management, local roads, town planning, parks, libraries, public health, traffic and parking management and many other services. In South Australia, councils are called district, town or city councils.

South Australia consists of 68 councils, including remote communities. A list of councils, maps and address search function is available on the Local Government Association (LGA) website.

The Outback Communities Authority (OCA) manages and governs the unincorporated areas of South Australia, a region encompassing 63% of South Australia. More information can be found on the OCA website.

The State Parliament creates the legal framework in which local government operates. Most of this framework is outlined in the Local Government Act 1999 (SA) and the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 (SA) which set out how councils are established, how elections should be run, how and when councils should meet, how rates are to be charged, how councils can spend money and their responsibilities and powers.

The City of Adelaide also operates under the City of Adelaide Act 1998 (SA). More information can be found on the City of Adelaide website.

In addition to these Acts, councils are also given powers by other State legislation including the Food Act 2001 (SA), the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA), the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA), the Local Nuisance and Litter Control Act 2016 (SA) and the South Australian Public Health Act 2011 (SA).

Each council can make by-laws which apply within the council’s geographical area and can take action against individuals who contravene those by-laws [Local Government Act 1999 (SA) s 246 and s 262].