Preparing for council elections

VEC is urging prospective candidates for Hume and Macedon Ranges in the upcoming council elections to use its 'Candidate Helper' service. (Unsplash).

The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is urging candidates who are standing in the upcoming postal election for Hume and Macedon Ranges councils to use its ‘Candidate Helper’ assistance service.

The recently updated Candidate Helper helps candidates to pre-fill their nomination forms before their appointment.

Nominations are set to open on Monday, September 9.

VEC electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel said that candidates need to complete a series of steps prior to nomination.

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

In addition to this assistance tool, the VEC also provides resources on their website including videos on the nomination process and rules, and a candidate handbook.

Prospective candidates are required to make an appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250 fee in person.

They must present 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 calling the Candidate Helpline until Monday, September 9.

Nominations close at 12pm on Tuesday, September 17, with late submissions not accepted.

Details: vec.vic.gov.au