Online information session to support prospective candidates to run for local government
July 28, 2020
Colac Otway Shire Council is hosting a free online information session next Tuesday to support local residents who wish to stand up and nominate for council at this year’s October election.
The online Stand for Council Community and Candidate Information Session is being hosted by Council and the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to provide prospective candidates with information about the role of local government and the responsibilities of being a Councillor.
Council Chief Executive Peter Brown said the session was a good opportunity for members of the community to learn more about the purpose of local government and if a role in Council was for them.
“This online session will provide the Colac Otway community and prospective candidates with information about the electoral process, local government and the role of a Councillor,” Mr Brown said.
“Current COVID-19 restrictions require Council to deliver the session online, however we hope that also provides a convenient option for community members through the whole Colac Otway region to participate.
“Nominations for council must be submitted by 12pm Tuesday 22 September, we believe this session will provide the necessary information to those people who are considering standing this year.
“Participants in the session will be provided with information regarding the new Local Government Act 2020, the electoral process and campaigning including key dates.
“As CE at Colac Otway Shire Council I’ll provide a general overview of the municipality and visiting CEO Andrew Mason from Corangamite Shire will provide participants with information regarding the roles and responsibilities of being a Councillor,” Mr Brown said.
“Aspects of this year’s election will run somewhat differently due to the COVID-19 situation, this will also be discussed at the session.
“It’s worth noting that this information session is different from the Mandatory Candidate Training sessions run by Local Government Victoria.
“If you’ve ever thought you may be interested in a role in local government, I encourage you to register for the online information session to make an informed choice as to whether you’d like to stand for Council this year.
“We also encourage any prospective candidates to contact us here at Colac Otway Shire Council if they’d like more information on local government or the role of a Councillor; we’re here to assist prospective candidates with any information or support they may need.”
Stand for Council Community and Candidate – Free Online Information Session
Date: Tuesday, 4 August 2020
Time: 5pm – 7pm
Register for the online information session at: cvent.me/GVlyRQ or via the link at www.colacotway.vic.gov.au.
For more information on standing for local government visit: www.viccouncils.asn.au.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400