Nominations open soon for local council elections

CANDIDATES ready to stand in October’s local council postal elections across Victoria are urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC) updated Candidate Helper to get their applications ready for submission when nominations open on Monday, September 9.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel has reminded candidates there are several important steps they must complete before officially throwing their hat in the ring.

“If you want to represent your local community, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training through Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination,” he said.

“This rule applies to all candidates, including those who are currently or have previously been a councillor.”

The VEC’s online Candidate Helper at vec.vic.gov.au/council-candidate allows candidates to pre-fill their nomination forms before submitting them at their nomination appointment.

Candidates can also watch a series of videos on key topics such as the nomination process, including the rules and procedures that apply.

The Candidate Handbook is also available on the VEC website.

Candidates are also encouraged to attend candidate information sessions being held in each electorate before the opening of nominations.

They must make an appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250 fee in person during business hours.

They must provide evidence that they have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will be shown on each candidate’s nomination form.

Candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination form in person at the election office by phoning the Candidate Helpline on 8620 1316 between now and Monday, September 9.

After this date, candidates can phone 13 18 32 and they will be directed to the relevant election office.

Nominations close at noon on September 17. Late nominations will not be accepted.

The ballot draw will take place on September 18, with ballots to be mailed out from October 7.

For more information on nominating, head to vec.vic.gov.au