The decision to defer was welcomed by councillors, with mayor Ryan Palmer believing the extra 12 months would provide councillors the opportunity to continue to work together "to ensure we come out the other side of this unprecedented event, stronger as a community".

Cr John Nell, who will resign at the end of this term after 34 years, said that he was prepared to serve the extra 12 months.

"We really have no other choice [than to postpone], the health of everyone is paramount," he said.

Cr Paul Le Mottee said that deferring the election was a sensible, responsible and inevitable thing to do.

"Changing administrations in the middle of a pandemic is not wise," he said while Cr Ken Jordan stressed the importance of safety.

"The postponement is just one less thing people need to worry about," Cr Jordan said.

Cr Giacomo Arnott said that he was disappointed that residents would have to wait another 12 months to judge this council.

"I would have liked for that to happen sooner rather than later."

Cr Jaimie Abbott said that the decision reflected the council's "100 per cent focus on fighting the virus and keeping our community safe", while Cr Sarah Smith agreed it was a testing time for all.

Port Stephens Council general manager Wayne Wallis said the decision would provide clarity to councillors and prospective candidates.