Local government election nominations are open, with those looking to make a difference in their community encouraged to apply.
Candidates can nominate from Monday, September 9, until 12pm on Tuesday, September 17.
Postal ballots will be sent to all Victorians on the electoral roll in early October and must be returned by close of voting on Friday, October 25.
Local government Minister Melissa Horne said that councils should reflect the communities they represent.
“I encourage local leaders to consider nominating in the upcoming local government elections,” Ms Horne said.
All candidates are required to undertake the online Local Government Victoria candidate training to be eligible to nominate for council, as required by the Local Government Act 2020.
New additions to this training include understanding conflicts of interest, and available support for councillors to perform their role.
Councils will have a uniform councillor code of conduct to create consistent standards of behaviour and increase accountability.
A program of mandatory training will also be introduced for councillors and mayors, including annual professional development.
The reforms are aimed at introducing stronger sanctions for councillor misconduct and improved processes to resolve conduct matters earlier, including strengthened powers for the minister to address councillor conduct.
Further information about the local council elections, including eligibility requirements, is available on the VEC website.
