Election of Australian delegates to the Council of the Swiss Abroad
Term 2025-2029
The Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA)
The CSA consists of a network of 140 delegates, 20 from within Switzerland and 120 from abroad. It is a key institution for the Swiss diaspora, playing a crucial role in connecting Switzerland and its citizens around the world, and in advocating for your interests, rights, and welfare.
The CSA’s work extends beyond political advocacy to issues such as ensuring that the Swiss Abroad are supported by providing relevant information and advice, fostering a connected Swiss community, or in times of emergency. Its lobbying efforts aim to elevate the voice of the diaspora within Swiss federal politics, ensuring that your concerns are addressed and contributions recognised.
As a Swiss residing in Australia, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands or Vanuatu, you are part of a global community that the members of CSA work tirelessly to connect and defend. It’s through the Council’s efforts that the unique challenges and opportunities facing Swiss expatriates are brought to the forefront of the Swiss national discourse. The CSA’s commitment to your representation and welfare exemplifies the strength and unity of the Swiss community across borders and strengthens the bond between Switzerland and its citizens abroad.
The CSA’s dedication to increasing political participation among the Swiss Abroad is demonstrated through its advocacy for the introduction of e-voting. Initiatives such as the direct democratic election of its delegates further underscores its commitment to inclusiveness and representation.
Election of delegates (and deputy) representing Australia, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu
Based on the number of registered Swiss living in our region – about 26,600 – Australia* holds four seats on the Council. Delegates are elected for a term of four years; the current term will expire in August 2025.
The four candidates receiving the highest number of votes will be elected as full members of the CSA. Provided the mandate is accepted, the candidate with the fifth highest number of votes will be elected deputy. If the mandate is refused, it shall go to the candidate next in line. The deputy has full voting rights at Council meetings when deputising for a CSA delegate. The deputy is also encouraged to cooperate in CSA tasks as required. Should a seat become vacant mid-term, the deputy can assume the position of elected delegate for the remainder of the term.
Direct election via e-voting
The election next year will be carried out entirely by electronic means (e-voting), using a Swiss e-voting system. This will ensure that every eligible Swiss citizen will have the possibility to choose their representatives.
Read more about the UniVote e-voting system here.
The election will be conducted by the Swiss Alliance Australia Inc (SAA) on behalf of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), with the assistance of the Swiss Federal Government and the Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney. The election coordinator is Claude Alain Staub, member of the SAA committee.
Who can vote?
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be a Swiss citizen residing in Australia*
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be 18 years and over
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be registered with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney
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have a current email address
Ensure the Consulate General has your up-to-date details!
Call for candidates to stand for election
To be an elected delegate or deputy delegate to the Council of the Swiss Abroad is a rewarding and important voluntary role serving your community. Anyone that fulfils the following eligibility criteria is strongly encouraged to apply standing for election.
To be eligible to stand for election, candidates must:
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be a Swiss citizen (or dual citizen) living in Australia*
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be 18 years and over
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be registered with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney
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demonstrate an interest and commitment to the Swiss community in Australia*
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be prepared to serve for the term 2025–2029
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have an interest in the Swiss political process, i.e. been rolled to vote in Switzerland
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in addition to English, be fluent in either German or French (spoken and written)
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be willing to travel to Switzerland for Council meetings once or twice a year (at own travel and accommodation expenses), and attend other online meetings as required
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be prepared to fulfil the duties and responsibilities of a Council member as stated in the OSA Duty List (Pflichtenheft/Cahier des charges) – a copy of which is available for download below
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be prepared to be a non-executive committee member of the Swiss Alliance Australia Inc
How to apply to stand as a candidate
If you meet the above qualifications and would like to apply to stand for election, please download the application form below. The completed application must be received by the election coordinator, Claude Alain Staub, on president@swissallianceaustralia.org by no later than COB 31 January 2025.
Further information
Further information is available from the election coordinator, Claude Alain Staub, on president@swissallianceaustralia.org