Elections are just around the corner in Wodonga and Chief Executive Officer Mark Dixon is encouraging community-minded citizens to consider standing for council.
Mr Dixon said now was the time for potential candidates to learn more about what’s involved in standing for council and planning an election campaign.
“Becoming a councillor is a great opportunity to influence the future direction of the local community,” he said.
“If you are over 18 and on the electoral roll for the council area, the chances are you are eligible to stand for council.
“Communities are made up of a diverse mix of people, therefore we encourage people from all walks of life to nominate as a candidate; no matter your occupation, cultural background, gender, or whether you are retired, a stay-at-home parent or a university student, all are welcome to join the election race.”
Mr Dixon said Wodonga Council delivered more than 100 community services and was responsible for more than $200 million worth of infrastructure and assets and an annual budget of $65 million and potential candidates needed to understand the breadth of their responsibilities and decision-making.
Under the new Local Government Act 2020, candidates will have to undertake mandatory candidate training to consider standing for council which will help candidates understand what is involved in becoming a councillor.
Local Government Victoria will be holding online candidate training from August 3, 2020.
“Deciding to stand for council is a big decision. A councillor’s role is exciting but also demanding, and prospective candidates should find out what’s involved before nominating for election,” Mr Dixon said.
Wodonga will host two online Municipal Association of Victoria community and candidate information sessions on:
- Monday, August 3 from 7pm to 9pm; and,
- Monday, August 31 from 7pm to 9pm.
Registration links for information sessions and training is available via the council’s website with links to the eligibility to stand for council and where community members can find about more about the day-to-day activities of a councillor.
The Local Government Act 2020 requires candidates to nominate in person. Nominees must make an appointment with their local Election Office. They will need to follow strict physical distancing and hygiene measures when they go to the office.
A local Victorian Electoral Commission office will open on Wednesday, September 16 in High St.
The nomination period will open on Thursday, September 17 and close on Tuesday, September 22 at noon.
Elections for Wodonga Council will be conducted by postal voting.
Voting will close on Friday, October 23 with declarations due by Friday, November 13.
To find out more about the election process, visit the VEC website.