Sydney’s next local government election is coming up in September – so make sure you’re enrolled to have your say, writes Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

The recent Census figures showed the huge role our GLBTI community plays in Sydney.

According to the latest data we are the number one city for same-sex couples, with 12% of all couples being in same-sex relationships. Many of the 1300 same-sex married couples in Australia also call Sydney home.

I read these figures with a great deal of pride and they reminded me of the great victories we have all achieved towards making the city a more equal, welcoming, and accepting home for our GLBTI community.

Because our city is so welcoming of GLBTI Australians, new people move to the city each and every day. Often the last thing one someone’s mind after a big move is updating their details on electoral roll to reflect your new home, but if you’re not enrolled to vote you can’t help choose the people who will shape your city over the next four years.

It’s important you have your say because those people set the scene – they work to make the city a place you want to be in or a place you don’t.

At every election around half the people eligible to vote in the City of Sydney will be new to the area or getting to vote for the first time.

“Because our city is so welcoming of GLBTI Australians, new people move here each and every day.”

That’s high turnover – so make sure you check first to see if you can vote, and ask your friends to check as well. You only have until July 30 to get your details up to date.

I really care about this because this election is incredibly important.

It’s up to you to decide whether we continue with the direction we have set over the past eight years – a progressive, open, tolerant and exciting city – or risk going back to the dark ages.

In addition to being one of the world’s GLBTI capitals, Sydney’s creative culture, festivals and events are world-renowned. The small bar revolution I championed has meant more choice in our nightlife.

Our city is tackling climate change head on, supporting start up innovation and building a stronger sense of local community.

None of these would be possible without your support and participation and most could be on the chopping block with a different council.

If you live in the City of Sydney, are an Australian citizen and have reached 18 years of age, you’re entitled to vote and be heard at the upcoming election.

Most businesses in the City of Sydney can cast a vote as well.

If you’ve recently moved here, turned 18 or run a business in the City, it’s easy to update your details or enrol. You just need to do it before July 30.

To update your details online, visit the Australian Electoral Commission here and complete the form.

Information about enrolling and changing your enrolment details is also available online here.

Please don’t let this opportunity pass by. Our city is depending on you.

The next election for the Council of the City of Sydney will be held on Saturday 8 September 2012.

In the weeks leading up to the vote, Same Same will ask each of the mayoral candidates about their policies relating to the local LGBT communities.