Whilst the 2021 council elections will be officially held on Saturday December 4, officials say pre polling and postal vote options is another means to keep election day as COVID safe as possible.

According to NSW Electoral Commissioner John Schmidt, the pandemic had significantly impacted how people considered the voting options available to them.

"Voter safety is paramount, as is ensuring every eligible voter in NSW has their chance to have their voices heard," Mr Schmidt said.

Applications for postal voting close 5pm on November 29 and postal ballot papers must be returned by 6pm on December 17.

Early voting centres will be open until December 3 and voters are reminded that they must vote in their local government area or ward as absentee voting is not allowed.

For those wanting to vote on election day, there will be COVID safe guidelines in place.

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"All polling places will be run in line with COVID safe election guidelines including mask wearing and physical distancing," Mr Schmidt said.

"Voters can bring their own pens and must check in using the Service NSW QR codes, and follow any NSW Health Advice."

Mr Schmidt said voting is compulsory for all enrolled electors and there are penalties for not voting.

"I encourage all voters to 'be vote ready' and consider their options ahead of December 4," he said.

For more information about where, when and how to vote please visit the NSW Electoral Commission website at elections.nsw.gov.au

To place an early vote in Griffith please visit the Griffith Community Centre or the Griffith Aboriginal Community Centre.

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