- make a difference - nominate · 4 information for candidates in south australian council...

NOMINATEFOR COUNCIL

Information for candidates in

South Australian council elections

- make a difference -

Councillors - everyday people who want

to make a difference• Information sessions ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

• Who can become a council member? ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

• Why diversity is important .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

• Do you have what it takes? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

• The role of a councillor .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

• Allowances and expenses .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

• Ethical and legal issues .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

About local government• The three tiers of government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

• A brief history ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

• Councils in South Australia .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

• Council functions and responsibilities .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

How councils work• Structure ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

• Relationship between council members and staff .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

• Meetings ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

About council elections• Types of elections .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

• The elections process .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• Eligibility to vote .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• Nominating as a candidate .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• Key dates .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Campaigning• What you need to know ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

• Planning your campaign .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

• Obeying the law .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Now you’re a councillor• Induction .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

• Training and development .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

More information• Contacts .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Consider for a moment how

daily life is improved by the

many services councils provide.

Imagine your community without

roads and footpaths, parks and

playgrounds, libraries, sporting

facilities - the list goes on.

Councils provide many services, programs and

infrastructure for communities. The decisions

about these services, programs, infrastructure and

supporting policies, are made by an elected group

of councillors.

Becoming a councillor presents the opportunity

to infl uence local directions and create long term,

positive outcomes within your community.

Being a councillor is a rewarding challenge -

one which requires commitment, responsibility

and accountability.

Many people in our local communities are

capable of providing strong and strategic

leadership. Local government can perform

at its peak and make informed decisions

when communities are represented by

a diverse group of leaders. Diversity

comes in many forms including

backgrounds, experiences, culture, age

and gender.

If you consider yourself to be invested in

the future of your community, willing to learn

and participate, and prepared to contribute

strategically to decision making processes that

benefi t your broader community, then you should

explore what it takes to be a councillor and

nominate for council elections.

This booklet has

been prepared to help

you appreciate the role and

responsibilities of a council

member, understand the

election process, and assist

you in deciding whether

to nominate.

4 Information for candidates in South Australian council electionsInformation for candidates in South Australian council electiecti

The Local Government Association (LGA)

and many councils offer free information

sessions for prospective candidates in

the lead up to the November elections.

For more information visit the LGA

website or contact your local council.

Who can become a council member?Most people are eligible to vote in local council elections,

and as such, also likely to be eligible to stand for a

position on council.

You can nominate for a position on council regardless of

qualifi cations, religion, race, gender, experience or profession.

In fact, councils encourage nominations by people from

diverse backgrounds to ensure that a wide range of views

are represented.

In South Australia there are around 700 council members

who are as diverse as the reasons that motivated

them to stand for election.

Eligibility criteriaAnyone can stand for election as a council member

(either mayor or councillor) if they are:

an Australian citizen (or, if not a citizen, they were a member of a

council between 5 May 1997 and 1 January 2000),

and

an elector for the area or the designated person for a body corporate

or a group which has its name on the voters roll

for the area.

You are not eligible if you:

• Are a State or Commonwealth parliamentarian.

• Are an undischarged bankrupt or receiving the benefi t

of a law for relief of insolvent debtors.

• Are disqualifi ed from holding offi ce by a court order.

• Are an employee of the council for which you are

considering nominating.

• Are a candidate for election in another council area.

• Have been sentenced to imprisonment and are, or could

become liable to serve the sentence or the remainder

of the sentence.

To be a councillor in South Australia you must meet the

above eligibility criteria, however there is no restriction

on people with dual citizenship.

If you have any doubts as to whether you are eligible

you should contact your council or speak to the

Electoral Commission of South Australia (ECSA)

Deputy Returning Offi cer.

COUNCILLORS everyday people who want to make a difference

Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 5

• Information sessions

• Who can become a council member?

• Why diversity is important

• Do you have what it takes?

• The role of a councillor

• Allowances and expenses

• Ethical and legal issues

Why diversity is importantCommunities are made up of people from different

backgrounds with different needs and interests.

This includes people from groups that have historically

had less input in council decisions, including:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;

• people from culturally and linguistically

diverse backgrounds;

• people with a disability;

• women; and

• young people, aged 18 years and over.

These groups are underrepresented as candidates and council

members in South Australia, and in other spheres of government

elsewhere in Australia.

Increasing the diversity of people on councils to more closely

mirror the communities they represent ensures

that a wide range of views are heard, and:

• Supports sharing of different ideas,

perspectives and beliefs.

• Enables consideration of different points of view.

• Encourages robust discussion that can test ideas,

bring about greater understanding of issues,

and result in better decision making.

6 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections

Do you have what it takes?While there are no special qualifi cations or

experience required to be on council, you

should be passionate about your local

community, willing to work as part of a

team and keen to learn.

Leadership skills are fundamental to working effectively

on council and infl uencing the future direction of the local

community. However, it is important to understand that

councillors do not make decisions on their own.

Decisions are only made by the

council as a whole, which means

you will be expected to work well

with councillors.

This doesn’t mean you have to

agree on everything, rather be

prepared to engage in respectful

debate on issues and build

effective, professional working

relationships.

PERSONAL AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Do you… Already possess

Willing to

develop

Remain calm and respectful

in all situtions, even when

you feel challenged or

under pressure?

Consider other people’s

culture, values and feelings

and show compassion and

empathy when making

diffi cult decisions?

Want to achieve great things

for your community and make

a positive difference?

Communicate clearly

and succinctly, employing

respectful language

and tone?

Listen deeply, seeking to

understand others?

passion

LS

reasess op

Personal and interpersonal

skills

Reading people and situations

Workiningwith different rent

people andd organisationsns

The following tables

list some of the

leadership qualities

that may help you

to be an effective

council member.

Consider whether

these are attributes

you already possess

or are willing

to develop to serve

your community.


READING PEOPLE AND SITUATIONS

Do you… Already possess

Willing to

develop

Have an awareness of the

needs, motivations and

values of other people?

Have the ability to notice and

understand other people’s

perspectives (regardless of

whether or not you agree

with them)?

Make professional, well

informed and ethical

decisions in diffi cult

circumstances?

Have the ability to make

informed decisions when

presented with complex

situations and multiple

stakeholders from varying

interest groups?

Have the ability to make fact-

based decisions rather than

be infl uenced by emotions?

onate aboutInformation for candidates in South Australian council electionsInformation for candidates in South Australian council elections 77t

WORKING WITH DIFFERENT PEOPLE AND ORGANISATIONS

Do you…Already possess

Willing to

develop

Manage relationships and

work well with others to

achieve desired outcomes?

Engage respectifully in

debates with others?

Enjoy connecting with and

learning from others?

Ask questions, bring an open

mind to decision making

and admit when you

don’t know an answer or

make a mistake?

Carefully consider the

evidence and different

points of view presented

by multiple stakeholders

to make a decision in the

best interest of

the community?

reaess

o

elop

ENT PEOPLE

reases

W

Strategic thinking

Skills Knowledge


Some of the skills and knowledge that are

useful for council members to have include:

STRATEGIC THINKING

Are you… Already possess

Willing to

develop

Interested in the world

around you and keep track of

long-term and current trends

and how they may have an

impact upon local plans

and objectives?

Able to articulate your

clear vision or intent for

serving your community and

contributing to the

greater good?

Curious to understand, learn

and consider all relevant

facts and options when

making a decision?

commitm

SKILLS

Skilled in…Already possess

Willing to

develop

Listening and communication

Time management

Analytical and strategic

thinking

Use of computers,

mobile devices and other

communication tools

Community engagement

Managing diffi cult

conversations

Public speaking

your local 88

yInformation for candidates in South Australian council elections

If you are successful in becoming a councillor, a mandatory

training program, council induction and ongoing professional

development opportunities will help you to develop the skills and

knowledge needed to operate effectively on council. You won’t need

to know everything from the start, however, it is important that you

have a strong interest in your community and a commitment to

learning in order to grow into the role of a council member.

eaess

W

resse

Wil


men

KNOWLEDGE

Understanding of…Already possess

Willing to

develop

The needs and aspirations of

your local council area and

community

Local government roles and

responsibilities

Budgeting and fi nancial

information

Social justice principles

Meeting procedures and

principles of good governance

Relevant legislation

and policies

Australia’s political system

coInformmation fofor candiddates iin South Auusts ralian ccouncil electionsns 99

Having a high level of self-awareness helped

me to manage some of the challenges I faced as well as more effectively

working with others on council.

deedeease

ddeWillin

de


The role of a councillorCouncillors serve the community by listening to residents

and local businesses, representing their

views on council.

You will work with council members

to make strategic decisions about

how the council will address the

needs of the community. This

will include setting objectives

to meet local requirements,

establishing priorities between

competing demands, and deciding

how resources should be raised

and allocated.

Legislation and policies, together with the council’s strategic

management plans, provide the framework for the ongoing

management and operation of the council.

Councillors do not get involved in the day to day running of

the council, which is the responsibility of the Chief Executive

Offi cer (CEO).

listening to residents and local businesses

Your role as a councillor will typically involve:

Taking part in discussions and

decision making at council and

committee meetings.

Reading council agendas and

business papers to prepare

for meetings.

Reviewing strategic

plans, policies and budget

information.

Being available to discuss

and advise community members

on individual concerns and

relay these through the

appropriate channels.

Participating in civic events

such as citizenship ceremonies

and awards.

Representing council on other

bodies and meetings.

Visiting council facilities and

liasing with the CEO on the

progress of council projects.

Providing leadership within

your community.

One of the most important roles you will have as

a council member is to participate in making

policy decisions

- establishing the rules, regulations

and guidelines by which your

community is governed -

within the parameters of laws

set by State Parliament.

Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 11Australian co

To keep in

touch with electors,

your commitment as a councillor may involve:

MMeeting residentsresidentseeand businesessesto understandndtheir views.

Monitoring theMonitoring thelocal media

to keep abreastof local newsand issues.

pingKeepingself informedyourself

about currentabstate and nationalst

ssues that mayissfect the area.he area.affe

Attendingeetings of localmeorganisations.o

ng part Takinga range ofin a r

cal activiloca ties.


Allowances and expensesDuring your term on council you are entitled

to an annual allowance. This is not a salary.

The level of allowance is set by the SA Remuneration

Tribunal every four years before council periodic elections.

The amounts are adjusted annually by a CPI-based formula

during the council term.

The Remuneration Tribunal was established in 1990 and

determines the allowances of parliamentarians, judges

and other statutory offi ce holders.

The Tribunal is required to determine allowances by taking

into account a number of factors, including the size,

population and revenue of each council, as well as any

relevant economic, demographic and regional factors.

As allowances vary between councils you should contact your

council or download the allowances policy from your council’s

website to fi nd out what allowances apply in your council

area. You should also investigate any taxation and Centrelink

implications of receiving an annual allowance.

In addition to an allowance, you are entitled to receive

reimbursement for some expenses incurred in the course of

your duties as a council member. These expenses include

travel and child care or care of dependents to enable you to

attend council or committee meetings and functions.

Councils may also decide to reimburse other expenses such

as telephone and internet costs incurred in the course of

council duties. Your council’s allowances policy will explain

what expenses you will be able recover.

Ethical and legal issuesCouncil members are public offi cers,

exercising powers, functions and duties on

behalf of the community.

Council members are required to separate public interest

from self-interest and to respect and uphold principles and

laws designed to protect the public interest and to preserve

public trust and confi dence in government institutions.

If elected, you need to be ready and willing to meet

the required standards of conduct including:

• Understanding and complying with laws that

apply to the conduct of council members.

• Acting honestly and only using your position as a

council member for proper purposes.

• Bringing an impartial and well informed view to

every council decision.

• Declaring, and avoiding, making decisions on

matters when your private interests, or those

of your family, friends or associates confl ict

with the impartial exercise of your duties as a

council member.

• Publicly disclosing specifi ed information

about your personal, family, business and

fi nancial interests.

• Submitting to public and offi cial scrutiny of your

conduct and decisions as a council member and

reporting wrongdoing by others that relates

to public offi ce.


The Local Government Act 1999 sets out the general duties and

code of conduct for members. It requires each council member,

at or before the fi rst meeting attended, to make a formal

undertaking to carry out all duties conscientiously and to the

best of their ability.

The community will often judge a council

according to the behaviour and public image

of individual council members. It is essential

that council members conduct themselves

in a way that is appropriate for elected

community representatives. You also need to

behave respectfully towards fellow council

members despite any personal, policy or

political differences you may have.

Council members are public offi cers for the purposes of

offences relating to public offi ce under the Criminal Law

Consolidation Act 1935. The offences most relevant to council

members relate to bribery or corruption of public offi ce, abuse

of public offi ce and demanding or requiring benefi t on the

basis of public offi ce.

Under the Independent Commissioner for Corruption Act 2012

(ICAC Act), council members have specifi c obligations to report

any reasonable suspicions of corruption or serious or systemic

misconduct or maladministration.

As a council member you will have to declare any confl ict

between your private interests and your role as a public

decision maker. The Local Government Act 1999 sets out what

constitutes a confl ict of interest and the actions

you must take. Generally you will be required to leave a

meeting if a confl ict of interest arises.

Failure to comply with the various provisions under the law is a

serious matter and will be dealt with by appropriate authorities

including the District Court, Offi ce of Public Integrity, SA

Police or the Ombudsman. Penalties may include a reprimand,

a direction to attend training, suspension, a fi ne, and/or

disqualifi cation from offi ce. More serious offences, such as

corruption, can result in penalties including imprisonment.

You are not personally liable for the actions of a council where

it is acting in good faith and is exercising its powers and

functions. You therefore cannot be personally sued by someone

disputing a council action.

However, individual council members can be sued for

defamation if you make comments which may damage a

person’s reputation. You should not make statements about

a person that you know to be false or if you are unsure if the

information is true or false.

The Local Government Act 1999 sets out ways you may lose

your position on council, including if you are declared bankrupt

convicted of an indictable offence punishable by imprisonment,

become a member of a State or Federal Parliament or become

an employee of the council.

If you have been successfully elected you

will have access to training and support to

assist you to understand your duties and

legal obligations.

You need to be impartial, aware of

your role and not take things personally.


ABOUT LOCAL GOVERNMENTThe three tiers of governmentThe three tiers of government -

local, state and Commonwealth - work together

in various ways to govern and provide services

to the community.

Although each tier of government operates differently and has

very different powers and functions, each has an important

role to play in Australia.

Local government is an elected

system of government directly

accountable to the local community.

Councils possess unparalleled knowledge about

the needs of their local area and for this reason, local

government is often referred to as the ‘grass roots’

level of government.

Council funds, supplemented in some cases by funding from

state and Commonwealth governments, are used to deliver a

diverse range of services to their local communities.

A brief history Local government has been an important part

of community decision making since the

settlement of South Australia.

The Adelaide Corporation, formed in 1840, was the fi rst elected

council to be established in Australia.

In 1887 the Parliament of South Australia introduced the District

Councils Act which established local government in many areas

of the state.

The South Australian Constitution Act, provides for a system

of elected local government bodies. And the Local Government

Act 1999 establishes the constitution, system and operational

framework for local government in South Australia.

It is the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 that contains the

requirements for council elections. It sets out how the elections

are to be conducted, who can nominate, who

can vote, how the votes are counted

and other important matters.

important part

since the

was the fi rst elected

introduced the District

rnment in many areas

vides for a system

he Local Government

tem and operational

Australia.

1999 that contains the 9

out how the elections

who can nominate, who

e votes are counted

portant matters.

The word

‘council’ is sometimes used to refer to

the whole corporate organisation, and sometimes used to refer to the

group of council members who

govern the organisation.

COMMONWEALTH

STATE

LOCAL


• The three tiers of government

• A brief history

• Councils in South Australia

• Council functions and responsibilities

Councils in South AustraliaThere are 68 individual autonomous councils in

South Australia. Each council covers a defi ned

geographic area that varies in size, population, and

environment. Despite these differences, all councils

have the same general powers and responsibilities,

and the discretion to choose many of the services

they provide.

• The three tiers of government

• A brief history

• Councils in South Australia

• Council functions and responsibilities

There are 68 individual autonomous councils in

South Australia. Each council covers a defi ned

geographic area that varies in size, population, and

environment. Despite these differences, all councils

have the same general powers and responsibilities,

and the discretion to choose many of the services

they provide

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Streaky Bay

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Mid Murray

Gilbert Valleys

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Peterborough

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Burnside

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WestTorrens

Norwood, Payneham & St Peters

Port Adelaide Enfi eldProspect

Walkerville

Gawler

Adelaide

Coober Pedy


councils:

Council functions and responsibilitiesLegislated

The Local Government Act 1999 sets out the role and functions

of a council. This includes:

• Being a representative, informed and responsible

decision-maker in the interests of its community.

• Participating in public policy development

and planning activities with the other tiers

of government.

• Providing and co-ordinating services and facilities that

benefi t its area, ratepayers, residents and visitors.

• Developing its community and resources in a socially just

and sustainable manner.

• Providing for the welfare, wellbeing and interests of

individuals and groups within its community.

• Representing the interests of its community to the wider

community and other tiers of government.

• Planning at the local and regional level for the

development and future requirements of its area.

• Managing, developing, protecting and conserving

the environment.

• Regulating local activities such as development and

building, keeping animals, parking, and maintaining

public health.

Some of these responsibilities include

regulating and enforcing laws.

Councils must provide regulatory services in accordance

with specifi c responsibilities and powers defi ned by the Local

Government Act 1999 or other legislation.

Examples include:

• waste collection;

• zoning, planning and building safety;

• fi re prevention and hazard management;

• dog and cat management and control;

• parking control; and

• public health and food inspection.

Provide and maintain community

infrastructure

Provide community

services

Plan for and administer sustainable

development


:

Discretionary

Other services are provided at the discretion of the council.

Discretionary services vary from one council to another and

depend on the size and geographic location of the council area,

number of people living in the area, physical environment,

priority needs of the local community, and available resources

and funding.

Examples include:

• street lighting;

• library and information services;

• parks, ovals and sporting facilities;

• swimming pools and leisure centres;

• community facilities and halls;

• coastal care;

• support services for elderly people and

people with a disability;

• tourism initiatives;

• wetlands and water resource management;

and

• promoting economic development.

Nominate forcouncil if you want to

make a difference for the whole of community, not just one issue.

t.

Protect the environment

Encourage and support economic

development

Safeguard public health

and safety

Information for candidates in South Australian council elections18

StructureA council comprises:

• A principal member of the council who is either

elected as a representative of the area as a

whole, or a member of council chosen by the

members. A principal member elected by the

electors is called the mayor. A principal member

chosen by the members of the council is generally

called the chairperson, although the council may

decide to use another title; and a

• A number of councillors – who, depending on

how the council is constituted, may be elected to

represent a ward (which is a specifi c geographic

section of the council area), or to represent the

council area as a whole.

If a council has wards it may choose to have both area

councillors and ward councillors. If a council does not have

wards, only area councillors are elected.

All council members are elected for a four-year term, and

regardless of whether they are ward or area councillors,

have a responsibility to consider the interests of the council

area as a whole.

With the exception of the mayor, the members of a council

are known as councillors or elected members. The term council

member is used to refer to all members of the council including

the mayor.

Council members combine to form the council that

meets formally and makes decisions. Individual council

members have no authority to make decisions on behalf

of the council, it is the elected council as a whole that

has this power.

The role of the mayor or chairperson is to:

• Preside at meetings of the council.

• Carry out the civic and ceremonial

duties of the offi ce of principal member.

• Provide advice, if required, to the CEO between

council meetings regarding the implementation of

a decision of the council.

• Act as the principal spokesperson of the council

(unless the council determines otherwise).

Council members are part of an incorporated body which has

responsibility for carrying out the duties and exercising the

powers conferred on the council by the Local Government Act

1999 and other laws.

The Act specifi es that council members must:

• Represent the interests of ratepayers

and residents.

• Provide community leadership and guidance.

• Facilitate communication between the community

and the council.

HOW COUNCILS WORK


Relationship between council members and staffThe working relationship between council members

and council staff is very important. Each have

separate but complementary roles:

• Council members decide the overall strategic

direction of the council and set the policies and plans.

• Staff, through the CEO, undertake the administrative

actions required to achieve the council’s strategic

directions, policies and plans.

Every council must appoint a CEO, who is the most senior

member of the staff.

The CEO is responsible to the council:

• For the implementation of council decisions and the

general administration of council functions and affairs.

• For employing and managing all other council staff.

• To act as an adviser to council members.

• To ensure the council acts within the law.

Understanding the differences in the roles and

functions helps establish a trusting and mutually

respectful working relationship between the council

and CEO/the administration.

• Structure

• Relationship between council members and staff

• Meetings

My experience indicates that the best team to achieve

what a community desires is where the mayor and chief

executive offi cer understand their respective roles.

This ensures that both support each other’s roles and the council team and community benefi t from a

whole team approach.

Russell PeateCEO Mid-Murray Council

Infor

As a councillor you will

be required to represent the views

of residents and ratepayers to your council and

in turn, explain council policy and decisions to

community members. You will serve as a bridge

between the community and council. However, you

will have no direct involvement in administration or

managing council staff, and no independent authority

to act or make decisions on behalf of the council.


MeetingsCouncil meetings

One of the most important functions of a

councillor is to attend and participate in the

decision-making process at council meetings.

Council meetings are held at least once a month. If you are

absent from three consecutive meetings without council’s

permission, you may be removed from offi ce.

To contribute effectively to the decision-making process it is

essential that you are prepared for meetings. Meeting papers

and reports are often detailed so you will need to set aside

suffi cient preparation time before each meeting.

Whether you are a ward or an area councillor, you must assess

the issues and make decisions in the best interests of your

council area as a whole.

Decisions of the council are made by a majority vote of the

members who are present and entitled to vote.

With the exception of the mayor, every member present at a

council meeting must vote on every question (motions and

amendments) arising for decision, unless precluded from

doing so by the confl ict of interest provisions of the Local

Government Act 1999.

A mayor who has been elected by voters does not have a

deliberative vote, but only a casting vote if the other votes

are equal. Conversely, a principal member chosen by

the council does have a deliberative vote but, in

the event that votes are equal, does not have a

casting vote.

Before you nominate for election, you should

read recent agenda papers (available on

your council website) and attend at least

one council meeting (which are open to the

public) to get an understanding of

what is involved.

Committee meetings

Councils establish committees to assist with the wide

range of activities and functions for which councils are

responsible, and to increase opportunities for community

input in policy development.

In addition to councillors, committees can include community

or skills-based members appointed by the council.

The roles and tasks of committees vary.

A council may establish a committee to:

• Enquire into matters and provide and make

recommendations to the council.

• Carry out a specifi c project or task on behalf

of the council.

• Manage or administer property, facilities or

activities on behalf of the council.

• Oversee works on behalf of the council.

• Exercise, perform or discharge delegated

powers, functions or duties.

While there are many rewards associated with community leadership,

you will need to set aside suffi cient preparation time

before each meetings.


Informal gatherings

Councils can also hold informal gatherings to allow for

discussion, undertake planning, deliver training, hold

workshops or to encourage informal communication between

councillors and staff. Where the informal gathering involves

discussion of a matter that is, or is intended to be, part of

a formal meeting of the council, the gathering must be open

to any member of the public, unless the council or CEO has

declared it to be a confi dential informal discussion.

These gatherings are not formal council meetings and

no decisions can be made at them.

External meetings

Councillors may also be required to represent council on other

bodies, for example, regional bodies, local organisations and

school councils. This could also include representing local

government at the state and national levels by involvement in

the Local Government Association of SA.

You owe it to your community to make well-informed decisions.

It is important that you consider your commitments

carefully before deciding to run

for election.

Information for candidates in South Australian council edidates in Sout

22 Information for candidates in South Australian council electionsdates in South Aust

The Local Government (Elections) Act 1999Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 sets out the requirements for council elections - how they are to be conducted, who can nominate, who can vote, and how the votes are to be counted.

In South Australia the Electoral Commissioner is the Returning

Offi cer for all council elections. The Returning Offi cer is

independent of councils, and is responsible for running the

elections and ensuring they are conducted in accordance

with the law.

The Returning Offi cer appoints an ECSA and local

Deputy Returning Offi cer for each council.

The Candidate Handbook produced by ECSA

provides more information about the conduct of local

government elections. Nomination kits will be available at

council offi ces towards the end of August 2018.

Types of electionsThere are two forms of elections held in local

government - periodic elections which are held on a

regular four-year cycle, and supplementary elections

which are held when a position becomes vacant,

for example, because a council member

has resigned or becomes a member of state or

federal parliament.

All council elections are conducted by postal vote. The

Returning Offi cer posts out ballot papers to all electors,

who cast their votes and post them back.

ABOUT COUNCIL ELECTIONS

NOMINATEVOTE

closes 12 noon

18 SEP


Periodic elections

Periodic elections are held at four-year intervals in

November, with voting at the next election closing on

Friday 9 November 2018.

Nominations open on Tuesday 4 September 2018

and close at 12 noon on Tuesday 18 September 2018.

The deadline for close of nominations cannot

be extended.

Voting closes at 5pm on Friday 9 November 2018.

This means ballot papers must reach the Returning

Offi cer by that time.

Supplementary elections

Supplementary elections are held if a casual vacancy occurs

between periodic elections (subject to a few exceptions), or

a periodic election fails for a reason such as the number of

nominations received was less than the number of vacancies.

• Types of elections

• The elections process

• Eligibility to vote

• Nominating as a candidate

• Key dates

ENROLmust be received by 5pm

Friday 10 August 2018

NOMINATEmust be received by 12 noon

Tuesday 18 September 2018

VOTEmust be received before 5pm

Friday 9 November 2018

must be received

before 5pm

9 NOV


The election process Eligibility to vote and nominate

You must be on the council voters roll to be eligible to

vote and stand as a candidate in council elections.

If you are already on the House of Assembly (State) electoral

roll (which means you vote in State elections) then you are

automatically on the council voters roll for the address at

which you enrolled.

However, if you are not on the House of Assembly roll or

have moved to a new house you will need to enrol to vote

or update your details prior to the close of rolls on Friday

10 August 2018.

You can update your details on the House of Assembly roll

via the Electoral Commission of SA website.

Application for enrolment on the councils supplementary

roll forms are available from your council’s website and

the LGA website.

Nominating as a candidate

If you are interested in nominating to be a candidate refer to

the Electoral Commission of SA Candidate Handbook which

provides a detailed explanation of eligibility criteria, the

nomination and Election process. Nomination kits will

be available at each council offi ce two weeks before

nominations open.

Voting

After voting closes the scrutiny and count begins. More

details are available in the nominations kit available from

your local council.

You may be eligible to vote and

nominate if you own an investment

property or represent a body corporate

or group in a particular council area,

regardless of whether you live there.

In this case you will need to enrol

before the close of rolls.


2018 Local Government Periodic ElectionsKey dates and activities of signifi cance

Roll closes 5pm Friday 10 August 2018

Nominations open Tuesday 4 September 2018

Nominations close 12 noon Tuesday 18 September 2018

Draw for position of candidate names

on ballot paper4pm Tuesday 18 September 2018

Mail out of voting materials to electors Monday 22 to Friday 26 October 2018

Last day for postal issue/reissue

of voting material5pm Wednesday 7 November 2018

Last day for personal issue/reissue

of voting material5pm Friday 9 November 2018

Close of voting 5pm Friday 9 November 2018

Scrutiny and count 9am Saturday 10 November 2018


After nominations close on 18 September 2018,

you should check with your council to fi nd

out if there are other candidates standing for

election in the same area or ward as you.

If no other candidates nominate, you will be declared elected

unopposed and a campaign will not be necessary. However,

you may still wish to provide electors with information about

yourself, your policy views and promises.

If the area or ward is contested then you may want to organise

a campaign to encourage people to vote for you.

What you need to knowBefore you begin campaigning you should

gather some background information to

ensure you understand:

CAMPAIGNING

ay still wish to provide electors wit

yourself, your policy views and promises.

If the area or ward is contested then you may want to organis

n to

How theelection

is run

Who your opposition isoppos

Any local issues l issuand concernsncern

How many votes you are

likely to need tobe elected

Your ward or area, including

maps and population data

Your council’s Your cocurrent programs, ent prostrategies, plans egies,

and policiespolic

s and Lawsgulations regu

at relate tothatouncil election coucampaigning


In addition to this guide, sources for this

information include:

• The Candidate Handbook (provided in your

nomination kit);

• Local Government (Elections) Act 1999;

• Electoral Commission of South Australia website;

• Local Government Association of South Australia website;

• Your council’s website; and

• Local newspapers.

You may wish to obtain a copy of the voters roll for your ward

(or whole council area if you are standing for mayor or area

councillor) from your council. The voters roll lists everyone

who is eligible to vote in the council election and one copy is

available to candidates after the close of nominations, until

voting closes. If you wish to obtain additional copies your

council may charge a fee.

Planning your campaignThe aim of your campaign is to encourage people to vote and

vote specifi cally for you. Voting in council elections

is voluntary and many people vote only if they are convinced

that a candidate will make a difference.

Ballot papers are distributed 22-26 October

2018. A signifi cant proportion of people

complete and return their ballot paper

straight away, so you should aim to

have your campaign underway before

distribution commences.

While elections are competitive, candidates are encouraged

to focus on their own positive messages, rather than making

negative comments about opponents.

• What you need to know

• Planning your campaign

• Obeying the law

•

•

Yo

(o

c

Be curious, be willing to learn and understand. You don’t need to know

all the answers.


Some key things to consider in planning

your campaign include:

• What issues will you campaign on.

• What you stand for and the message(s)

you wish to convey.

• What resources (time and money) you are willing

to commit to campaigning.

• Whether you wish to seek campaign donations

or undertake fundraising activities.

• If there are other people you can enlist to help

with your campaign.

• Whether there are high-profi le individuals who

might endorse your candidacy.

• If you want to have a scrutineer at the scrutiny

and count.

You may also wish to investigate:

• Contact details and editorial deadlines for local media.

• Costs for advertising in local media and/or

digital advertising.

• Designers and printers to assist you with your

campaign materials.

• Website developers to assist with your online presence.

• Establishing a social media presence on Facebook,

Twitter or other platforms (separate to your personal

accounts).

• Whether your council is hosting ‘meet the candidate’

events.

Some of the possible ways to get your

message out to voters include:

• Contact by telephone (electors you know or a random

selection from the voters roll).

• Preparing and ‘letterboxing’ a pamphlet/leafl et/postcard.

• Writing to electors (and/or to people you know well and

asking them to give your pamphlet to other people).

• Door knocking.

• Speaking to local groups, clubs, resident associations,

and community organisations.

• Visiting and talking to people at sporting grounds,

shopping centres, train and bus stations and other

meeting places.

• Promoting yourself within your existing networks

such as church groups, sports teams, business

customers.

• Seeking interview opportunities with local media –

newspapers, radio stations or community TV.

• Submitting information to your local newspaper for

candidate ‘profi les’.

• Placing paid advertisements in local media or online.

• Placing election signs around the neighbourhood

(check with the council about restrictions before affi xing

any signs).

• Placing posters in local shop windows, on noticeboards

and other venues (with permission).

• Speaking at public meetings and/or ‘meet the candidate’

sessions.

• Holding fundraising events at which you can promote

your candidacy.

• Establishing a website and/or social media presence.

• Sending ‘bulk’ text messages or emails (where you have

lawful access to contact information).


Having researched and assessed your strategies you should

prepare a campaign plan setting out who will do what, when, and

how much it will cost. This plan can be shared with your campaign

team, and used to help manage the implementation

of your campaign.

Example campaign plan template

Key local issues to

campaign on

• Issue 1

• Issue 2

• Issue 3

Key messages to convey • Message 1

• Message 2

• Message 3

Campaign budget $ xxx

Campaign team members Name

e.g. John Citizen

Mobile

0400 000 000

Email

[email protected]

Important contacts (e.g.) Name Mobile Email

ECSA Deputy returning offi cer

Local journalist(s)/ media

Graphic designer

Printer

Web developer

Action items (e.g.) Who is responsible? When will it be done by? What will it cost?

Develop and print fl yers e.g. JC 10/10/18 $100.00

Develop and print election signs

Create a website

Establish social media accounts

Important Note:

Each candidate is responsible for obtaining

their own advice and assistance to stage

their campaign

The LGA, ECSA and

galcouncils do not provide leggp g

n to advice or support in relationn

gn the development of campaii

cesmaterials or online resourcc

30 A guide for candidates in South Australian council elections

Preparing election materials

In addition to your candidate profi le, which will be sent to all

electors with their ballot papers, you may wish to produce a

leafl et/postcard to help promote your candidacy.

Ensure you read and understand the legal requirements

relating to publication of electoral material, illegal practices

and return of campaign donations which are mailed to you

following the close of nominations.

Your promotional materials should be easy to read, concise,

and clearly state the messages you wish to convey.

Consider including information such as:

• Your personal details – the type of work

you do, your interests and background.

• Why you are standing for election – areas of

concern, what you hope to achieve, your views

about the area and its future development.

• Election details – the name of your council

and ward, and key election dates.

• Voting details – how to mark and return

ballot papers.

• Contact information – your address, phone

number, email address, campaign website

and social media accounts.

• A recent photograph of yourself.

Once you have prepared your campaign material, ask

others to read it to check for errors and provide feedback

before it is printed.

If distributing printed materials to letterboxes you

should respect signs indicating that advertising materials

are not welcome.

Once fi nalised, the information in your

leafl et can provide the basis for other

promotional materials including

website content, media releases and

newspaper advertisements.

Signs and posters are a popular

method of promotion during elections.

Candidates may place election signs

on road infrastructure (light poles and

stobie poles) during the campaign,

but these signs must comply with

guidelines for the placement of election

signs. Election signs may be put in place no earlier than four

weeks before the close of voting, and must be removed

within 48 hours of the close of voting.

Candidates must seek permission from relevant business

owners and venue operators before displaying posters in

windows or on noticeboards.

Promoting your candidacy online

People are becoming increasingly reliant on the internet

as a source of information for a wide range of topics,

including elections.

The internet is also a relatively low-cost option for candidates

to promote themselves and connect with voters.

Platforms such as Facebook and Twitter can be used to

engage with residents, share information and respond to

questions or concerns.

A simple blog or website can be used to share campaign

messages expand on ideas in greater detail. It can also serve

as a hub to connect your other online accounts.

Candidates with an online presence are able to provide a

single web link (website or social media address) to the LGA for

publication on the candidate website as part of their profi le.

If you wish to take advantage of this option, ensure that you

include your email address on your nomination form. This will

be used by the LGA to contact you with information about how

to upload your web link.

After nominations close at 12 noon on Tuesday 18 September

2018, the LGA will email you seeking your link. You will have

seven days to submit your website address to the LGA.

Candidates using the internet for promotion must be aware

that any material published or broadcast during the election

campaign is electoral material and must comply with the

requirements of the Act.

All printed material,

including election signs,

must contain the names

and addresses of the

persons authorising and

printing the material.

See pages 34 and 35

for legal requirements.

A guide for candidates in South Australian council elections 31

When using social media:

Always be courteous, patient and respectful of others’ opinions, including detractors.

Respond to comments, posts and messages.

Be accurate, constructive, helpful and informative.

Correct any errors as soon as possible.

Be mindful of your language and expression.

Protect your personal privacy.

Be sensitive to the privacy of others. Seek permission from anyone who appears in any photographs, video or other footage before sharing these via any form of social media. If asked to remove materials, do so as soon as practicable.

Be clear about your identity as a candidate in the election.

Don’t use social media when inebriated, irritated, upset or tired.

Don’t use fi ctitious names or identities that deliberately intend to deceive or mislead.

Don’t publish information or make statements which you know to be false or may reasonably be taken to be misleading or deceptive.

Don’t comment, contribute, create, forward, post, upload or share content

that is malicious or defamatory.


und

engage

Candidate profi le versus candidate statementThe Local Government (Elections) Act 1999Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 refers to both

a candidate profi le and a candidate statement. These are

two different things.

Candidate profi le

Your candidate profi le is the 150-word description submitted

to ECSA along with your photograph as part of your nomination

for election.

Your candidate profi le is printed and distributed with the

ballot pack to all electors in the council area in which you are

nominating. ECSA also provides your profi le and photograph to

the LGA to be published on the council elections

candidate website.

Candidate statement

Your candidate statement is the information you publish

independently on the internet, as described earlier in this

section. It can be linked to your candidate profi le by providing

a web link (social media or website address) to the LGA within

seven days after the close of nominations.

Your candidate statement is optional and can contain any

information you wish to provide to voters, provided that it

complies with legislation.

You are responsible for creating and maintaining your

candidate statement. The LGA’s role is limited to providing a

link on the candidate website for voters to access your page.

Be confi dent, not arrogant.

Be open minded and curious of

other perspectives, not single minded.

derstandA guide for candidates in South Australian council elections 33

Door knocking etiquette

In general, it is more likely that someone will vote in a

council election if they have engaged directly with one

or more of the candidates.

One of the most effective ways of direct engagement is

doorknocking. However, it is also time consuming and there are

some risks that need to be carefully considered and managed.

You should consider the following points before

door knocking:

• Understand that your personal presentation

is important.

• Prepare a brief introduction and be clear about the

questions you wish to ask and/or messages you

wish to convey.

• Undertake doorknocking on weekends or weekday

evenings when more people are at home.

• Target areas most likely to produce results (especially

those close to your own home).

• Expect to cover an average of 10-15 houses per hour.

• Respect any signs indicating that you are unwelcome.

• Expect a wide range of interest levels and responses.

• Be prepared for complaints and be able to suggest

ways to address them with the existing council.

• Consider your own personal safety. For example, be

aware of the risks of doorknocking alone at night.

When someone answers the door:

• Introduce yourself and briefl y explain the purpose of

your visit. If the person is busy, suggest another time or

way of contacting you.

• Be friendly and attentive and listen to the issues people

want to talk about. Explain your views politely.

• Finish your conversation by seeking the

person’s support.

• Leave a card or leafl et behind. (For security reasons,

if the door is unanswered, do not leave a note in a

manner that would make it obvious to others that the

house is unattended.)

dd

listen


Obeying the lawWhen planning and conducting your campaign

it is essential that you comply with relevant

legislation and regulations.

Electoral material

Electoral material is any advertisement, notice, statement

or representation that is calculated to affect the result of an

election or poll. While you may think fi rst of election posters

or brochures it also includes promotional shirts, meet the

candidate events and social media posts.

Strict requirements apply to electoral material under the Local

Government (Elections) Act 1999. Failure to comply with these

requirements may give rise to an offence.

Section 27 of the Act states a person must not publish

electoral material or cause electoral material to be published

unless the material contains – (a) the name and address

of the person who authorises publication of the material;

and (b) in the case of printed electoral material – the name

and address of the printer or other person responsible for

undertaking its production.

Misleading material

Where electoral material, published by any means, includes

any purported statement(s) of fact, the person who authorised,

caused or permitted the publication is guilty of an offence if

the statement is inaccurate or misleading to a material extent.

If the Electoral Commissioner is satisfi ed that published

electoral material contains inaccurate or misleading material,

the Electoral Commissioner may request the publisher to

either withdraw the material from further publication and/or

publish a retraction.

Candidate profi le

The Local Government (Elections) Regulations 2010 require

(among other things) that a profi le must not refer to another

person who has nominated as a candidate without the written

consent of that person and must not comment on decisions or

actions made or taken by the council, or on decisions or actions

of past or present members of the council. This requirement is

specifi c to the candidate’s printed profi le and further details

will be provided by the Returning Offi cer. A profi le in breach of

these provisions will invalidate a candidate’s nomination.

Use of council resources

Council resources are not to be used for your campaign,

including offi ces, support staff, equipment and stationery.

Violence, intimidation and bribery

A person who exercises violence or intimidation, or offers

or gives a bribe to induce a person to submit/withdraw

candidature, or to infl uence a vote, or to interfere with the

due course of an election, commits an offence. Any person

who receives such a bribe is also guilty of an offence. “Bribe”

is broadly defi ned to include a monetary sum or a material

advantage, including food, drink or entertainment.

Dishonesty

A person who dishonestly infl uences or attempts to infl uence

the result of an election is guilty of an offence. A declaration

of public policy or a promise of public action does not amount

to bribery or dishonesty. The public declaration of an intent

(if elected) to donate the council member allowance to a

particular body or person would likely be seen as a form of

bribery in the election process.

Interference

Any person who hinders or interferes with the free exercise

or performance of a right under the Act commits an offence

against the Act.


Campaign donation return

All candidates (whether successful or not) must submit a

campaign donation return to the council CEO within 30 days

after the election. The return must set out:

• The total amount or value of all gifts received.

• The number of persons who made those gifts.

• The amount or value of those gifts.

• The date each gift was made.

• The name and address of the person who made the gift.

If the gift was made by an unincorporated association

the name of the association and the names of the

executive committee must be stated.

It is an offence for a candidate not to lodge a campaign

donation return and you should refer to the candidate

handbook produced by the ECSA for more information.

Standing for re-election

Current council members standing for re-election must be

aware of additional requirements upon them under the Local

Government Act 1999.

Section 91A of the Act requires councils to adopt a caretaker

policy governing the conduct of the council and its staff during

the election period.

Council members have a general duty not to use a facility or

service provided by the council for the purpose unrelated to the

performance of offi cial functions or duties, such as for their

election campaign.

Council members who are considering nominating for

re-election should familiarise themselves with their council’s

caretaker policy which is designed to ensure a level playing

fi eld and protect current members from exposing themselves

to legal liability or suggestions of unfair advantage.

Complaints

Any individual or organisation can make a complaint about an

electoral offence under the Act. The complaint must be made

in writing and submitted, with supporting evidence, to the

Electoral Commissioner who will consider each complaint

on merit.

The Court of Disputed Returns can consider a petition

that disputes the validity of an election. The court has

considerable powers as set out in the Local Government

(Elections) Act 1999.

Penalties

The Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 specifi es a range

of illegal practices. Signifi cant penalties may apply including

fi nes of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for seven years.


Once the election is fi nalised the CEO will

advise when the next council meeting will

occur. You will be given at least three days

notice of this meeting. The time between

the end of the election and the fi rst council

meeting will vary from council to council. It

may be almost straight away or could be as

long as three weeks after.

You should prepare yourself by learning about:

• The procedure for taking your place on your council.

• Meeting procedures set down in the Local Government

(Procedures at Meetings) Regulations 2013 (a meeting

procedures handbook is available from the LGA website).

Induction

The CEO will arrange an orientation and induction process for

newly elected councillors. This may include:

• Further information about your role and responsibilities.

• General information about local government and specifi c

information on how your council operates.

• A tour of the council area and facilities.

• Information on the organisational and operational

structure including an overview of each of the functions

or departments.

• Introduction to key staff members.

In the meantime, you may fi nd it valuable to acquaint

yourself with:

• The Local Government Act 1999 and regulations.

• Your council’s organisational structure.

• Strategic management plan and other associated plans.

• Policies and procedures.

• Current year’s budget and budget proposals for the

following year.

• Most recent annual report.

Most of this information can be found on your council’s website.

The LGA website also provides a range of useful contextual

information including research, policy, legislation, manuals,

codes and guidelines, and training and development

opportunities.

In particular, the Council Members Guide is a useful resource,

as it is a practical guide to current local government

legislation, practices and procedures. It is available through

your council or from the LGA.

If your council does not have a formal induction program, you

could make a time to meet with the CEO and mayor. Please

refer to the training and development section on page 37.

Once you have been elected, you will be required to make a

Declaration of Offi ce before you are offi cially on the council.

This is a formal declaration that you undertake to carry out

your duties conscientiously and to the best of your ability. It is

signed in the presence of a Justice of the Peace. This normally

occurs at the fi rst council meeting after the election.

NOW YOU’RE A COUNCILLOR

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CEO will arrange an orientation

ly elected councillors. This may in

Further information about your rol

• General information about local go

information on how your council ope

• A tour of the council area and facilit

• Information on the organisational an

structure including an overview of ea

or departments.

• Introduction to key staff members. mally

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Each council has its own procedure for this ceremony. You

may be asked to wear robes (if the council does so), read

the declaration aloud or to give a short speech. If a speech

is required, it is usually most appropriate to make a simple

statement thanking your supporters and expressing your desire

to contribute to the work of your council.

You must also complete a primary return of your fi nancial

and other interests within six weeks of the conclusion of the

election, and an ordinary return (an update of changes to

the primary return) each year. The CEO will brief you on the

procedure as it applies to your council. For transparency and

accountability purposes, your primary and ordinary returns

will be accessible to the public via a register of interests

maintained by your council.

As councillors have no authority in relation to staff, you should

ask about the procedures for lodging enquiries regarding

council works and services. You should also seek opportunities

to meet your fellow councillors with whom you will be working

for the next four years.

Training and development

The Local Government Act 1999 requires each council to

have a training and development policy for council members,

designed to support and equip councillors to carry out their

duties effectively.

A mimimum of 7.5 hours mandatory training must be

undertaken by new councillors. Modules cover the

following topics:

• introduction to local government

• legal responsibilities

• council and committee meetings

• fi nancial management and reporting.

In addition to mandatory training, the LGA offers a

post-election training program to support council

members in their ongoing professional development.

• Induction

• Training and development

It’s not about winning for yourself. It’s about looking at the bigger picture, taking stock of all the information and

facts, seeking community input and fi nding commonality with others

about what is the greatest benefi t to the community.

I


Contacts

Deputy Returning Offi cer for your council Contact your local council

Local Government Association of SA

www.lga.sa.gov.au

148 Frome Street

GPO Box 2693 Adelaide SA 5001

Telephone: 8224 2000

Electoral Commission of SA

www.ecsa.sa.gov.au

Level 6, 60 Light Square SA 5000

GPO Box 646 Adelaide SA 5001


Offi ce of Local Government, Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure

www.dpti.sa.gov.au

77 Grenfell St Adelaide SA 5000

GPO Box 1533 Adelaide SA 5001 Telephone: 7109 7153

Email: [email protected]

Australian Local Government Women’s Association South Australian Branch Inc.

www.algwa.net.au/branches/south-australia.php


Email: [email protected]

MORE INFORMATION

“At times mum would give advice to those who wanted to enter

either local government or seek election for state parliament. She

would say to them: ‘Look at the big picture, do you have a vision,

do you have a commitment to that vision?

Above all you need a commitment.

Do it to make a difference… don’t do it just for political gain

because you won’t be there after the next election’.”

An excerpt from Michelle Baluch’s eulogy at the Adelaide Memorial Service for her late mother, Joy Baluch, former Mayor of Port Augusta and past president of the LGA.

Nancy Joy Baluch AM

(10 October 1932 - 14 May

2013) was an Australian

politician who served as Mayor

of Port Augusta from 1981 to

1993 and from 1995 until her

death in 2013. Her term as

mayor of 29 years is believed to

be an Australian record.


Local Government

Association of SA

The Local Government Association of SA (LGA)

is a membership organisation which supports

and advocates for councils, and provides

services and leadership relevant to the

needs of councils.

Membership of the association is voluntary and every council in

the state, along with the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara,

has elected to join.

Originally established in 1875 and reformed in 1968 in its

current form, the LGA is recognised as the peak representative

body for local government in South Australia and prides itself

as being ‘the voice of local government’.

The LGA is federated nationally with interstate associations

in the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA).

AdvocateLeadership

and infl uence Achieving greater infl uence

for local government in

matters affecting councils

and communities.

AssistCapacity building

and sustainability

Working with member

councils to build capacity and

increase sustainability. An

integrated and coordinated

local government.

AdvanceBest practice

and continuous

improvementFacilitating continuous

improvement in councils

and the LGA.

1 2 3

The mission of the LGA is to provide leadership to councils

for the benefit of the South Australian community.

To achieve this mission the association has set itself three key initiative areas:

Local Government Association of South Australia

148 Frome St , Adelaide SA 5000

T (08) 8224 2000 E [email protected]

www.lga.sa.gov.au

Authorised by Matt Pinnegar • 148 Frome Street, Adelaide SA 5000 • Email: [email protected] • Phone: (08) 8224 2000

- make a difference - nominate · 4 information for candidates in south australian council...

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