The process to elect a new state government in South Australia will formally get underway this Saturday (February 15) when the Governor issues the writs for the State election on March 15.

South Australia’s Electoral Commissioner, Ms Kay Mousley, said the issuing of the writ was the first in a number of key dates leading to Election day.

It was also traditionally the day that election posters began to appear.

“Under changes introduced to the Electoral Act 1985, a number of important events are now locked into place,” she said.

“Once the writ has been issued, the next major step in the process will be the close of the electoral roll at 12 noon, Friday February 21.

“Enrolling is compulsory and all Australian citizens aged 18 years or over on Election Day and who have lived at an address for at least a month must now enrol.”

Enrolment forms are available at all post offices or by downloading a form from the Electoral Commission website (www.ecsa.sa.gov.au)

Ms Mousley said candidate nominations would close at 12 noon, Monday, February 24.

“Anyone wishing to nominate should make sure their nominations are received well ahead of the cut-off, so that they can be processed and approved in time,” she said.

“Candidates need to comply with a number of new requirements, with more information available on the ECSA website.”