News

Council elections to go through the post

Jun 1, 2020

THE Victorian Government has announced local council elections will still go ahead this year, albeit in a different format.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

Victorians will be able to have their say on their local government representatives through a postal vote on Saturday, October 24.

This will be the first time postal voting has been used across all Victorian councils, following changes introduced to the Local Government Act 2020 that requires a statewide and uniform approach to voting.

“Victorians have the right to a democratic say on who represents them at all levels of government,” Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek said.

“By making every vote a postal vote, we’re ensuring this vital democratic process is conducted in a safe manner that also allows for the participation of more voters.

“We’re supporting more women to run for local government and be successful in the 2020 elections as we take another step towards the goal of gender equality by 2025.”

To support the Labor Government’s goal of gender equality on councils by 2025 an additional $50 000 is being invested to encourage women to run for council at the 2020 election. This is in addition to $87 000 already invested to increase overall diversity amongst councillors at the 2020 elections.

To ensure the election is safe, and in an acknowledgement of physical distancing requirements, longer candidate statements will be allowed in the Victorian Electoral Commission Voter Information packs and guidance will be available on suitable and safe campaigning methods.

More local news

Campaspe Shire appoints disability and aged care provider

Bowtell completes Colbinabbin silos

Beryl looks good at 105