By Callum Ludwig
An opportunity for aspiring council candidates is coming up close to home in preparation for this year’s local government elections.
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is visiting Yarra Ranges Council on Thursday 9 May for a Community and Candidate Information Session.
Director of Corporate Services at Yarra Ranges Council Andrew Hilson said this session is an amazing opportunity for anyone who is passionate about their community and has a desire to create change in the Yarra Ranges.
“No prior knowledge is required to attend, as the session covers off all of the basics around the role of local government and the responsibilities of a Councillor,” he said.
“The session will also cover things like the election process, requirements for candidates, Councillor training and development opportunities,”
“It’s not often that these sessions are run in the Yarra Ranges so we’d love to see as many people as possible registering and coming along to find out what standing for Council is all about.”
Candidates intending to run in the neighbouring eastern metropolitan councils of Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash and Whitehorse are also welcome to attend the event, which will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in the Council Civic Centre on 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale.
MAV CEO Kelly Grisby said the MAV Stand for Council campaign is designed to encourage and support a diverse range of candidates from across the Victorian community including first nations, and new and emerging communities.
“If you are thinking of nominating for council as a candidate, these sessions and resources will help you to further consider the broad responsibilities of a councillor, the wide range of issues you will be required to make decisions about and the time commitment,” she said.
At the event, MAV will also be providing its Citizen to Councillor Guide 2024 to help prospective candidates to further understand the roles and responsibilities of a councillor and importance the role plays in the community.
In order to run for Council, you must be an Australian citizen over 18 years old who is enrolled to vote in the LGA you wish to stand and must have completed the mandatory Local Government candidate training.
Local government elections will be held in October.
