It’s nearly time to nominate, stand up and represent your community in the upcoming local government elections on December 4, with one week until candidate nominations open.
Minister for local government Shelley Hancock said the long-awaited poll provides a great opportunity for residents to affect change in their community.
“Don’t sit back and complain about your local council – do something about it and run for election so you can make a positive difference,” Mrs Hancock said.
“As a former councillor of 17 years, I can tell you how incredibly rewarding it is to serve in the level of government closest to the community.”
Communities across the State will elect more than 1,200 councillors at 124 local councils, including here in Macarthur and outer South Western Sydney.
The minister says anyone with a strong sense of community who is keen to make a difference should have a go.
“I am encouraging candidates from all-walks-of-life to put their hand up – we need more women, youth, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents and members of multicultural communities to increase the diversity of representation on councils across the state,” Mrs Hancock said.
“You don’t need any formal qualifications and, if elected, you will be provided with training, support, expenses, fees and superannuation,” Mrs Hancock said.
The NSW Government is taking all steps necessary to assist the NSW Electoral Commission to conduct Covid-safe council elections and ensure the health and safety of voters, candidates and election staff.
Candidate nominations open October 25 and close on November 3.
For more information and comprehensive online training tool and guides for candidates visit the Office of Local Government and NSW Electoral Commission websites.
Erik, from personal experience it is great opportunity to represent your local community, but don’t take it lightly, expect to put in around 40 hours a week. At least 12 Council meetings a year, a briefing session prior to each meeting and at least three to four committee meetings per month plus Community Forums and residents’ meetings.
Then there are numerous reports to read and Notice of Motions to prepare and research, preparing Questions with Notice for Council Administration to answer. Representing residents in submissions against impacting Development Applications which are made more difficult since the State Government removed planning and assessment decisions from Councillors and gave them to unelected bureaucrats following rules and regulations not necessarily in the best interests of the community.
But persevere, satisfaction comes from helping those that don’t understand how local government functions and being able to make a difference to your community. It’s a time-consuming profession best suited to the semi-retired with time and energy to spare.