Changes during election period

The next few Borough of Queenscliffe Mayor’s Columns will look a little different – that’s because we’re entering the election period, also known as ‘caretaker period’, which changes the way councils can communicate.

These changes take effect from the day candidate nominations end, right up to election day itself. This year, election results will be declared on Friday November 13 2020.

As you know, an election is one of the most direct ways you can let council know what is important to you. It is a chance to influence the priorities of Council and to put in place people who you want to represent you.

This year, the election process is running a little differently. To help you prepare to vote, here’s a bit of information that outlines the process and how you are involved.

How the Council election will be run:

This year’s elections will be conducted entirely via post, and voting is compulsory if you are automatically enrolled on the Victorian State electoral roll. The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) will post ballot packs to enrolled voters between Tuesday October 6 and Thursday October 8 2020.

The ballot pack will contain:

• A ballot paper attached to statements and photographs lodged by the candidates in your council or ward.
• A ballot paper envelope with a flap.
• Voting instructions.
• A reply-paid envelope.

Follow the instructions on the ballot pack and make sure your completed vote is mailed before 6pm on Friday October 23 2020. The results will then be declared on Friday November 13 2020.If you’d like to learn more about the election process, the VEC website (vec.vic.gov.au) has plenty of resources and information to help you understand exactly how everything works.

There’s also Council’s website (queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/vote), which gives you a brief overview of the process as well as key dates throughout the election period.Updates on Council servicesRegular Council services will continue to operate throughout the election period, although some of these may still run in an altered fashion due to the coronavirus pandemic.

To keep up with the latest information on Council services, visit our website at queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/covid19.

For the most up-to-date information about coronavirus restrictions, visit the Department of Health and Human Services’ website at dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.

Of course, you can always call us on 5258 1377 or email us at [email protected] to make payments, ask questions, or handle any other council business.

Council’s business hours remain 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.