Becoming councillor ready

THOSE interested in running to become a councillor are required to complete local government candidate training.

Each candidate must undertake the training to nominate for council and report its completion to the Victorian Electoral Committee.

The compulsory training was introduced in the Local Government Act 2020 and is aimed to better equip and help candidates understand the role and requirements of councillors.

Information is provided on a range of topics including eligibility requirements, information on governance and integrity requirements, the role of a council and councillor and more.

The 2024 training has been updated and reviewed to include information around understanding conflicts of interest, required code of conduct and the support available for incoming councillors.

Borough of Queenscliffe Mayor Ross Ebbels said the training also provides an insight around what newly appointed councillors can expect after the election.

“Undertaking the councillor training is a great way for anyone considering running for council to learn more about the process and the role itself-I very much recommend it.”

The compulsory training will take around an hour to do, for those who have previously completed it, they are encouraged to undertake the updated version.

Nominations for elections open on September 9 and close on September 17, candidates are encouraged to complete the training before nominations open.

Cr Ebbels said to anyone considering running for council, it might be the best thing they ever do professionally and for the community.

“In my role as councillor, deputy mayor and mayor, I have been fortunate to better connect with my own community in representing the Borough of Queenscliffe.

“There are always numerous issues that require championing and becoming a councillor provides the opportunity to affect positive change for your own community and region.”

Once the course has been completed participants will receive a certificate of completion which they will need when they nominate.

For more information or to complete the training, head to localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/candidate-training