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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 7
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
8 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 9
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
10 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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.
12 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 13
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.
14 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 15
• 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
IslandK
aroo IslandKang
garoo IslandKangaroo Islandaroo IslandKangaroo Island Kangaroo I
d Kangaroo Island KangIsla K Islan
g
llalilla
laYank Yankalilla Y
YankalillaYankalillaYanka
Yanka
HarVictor HarVicor Harborto Vic
r Victor H
nka Ya
AlexandAlexandrina Alex
eexanx drinaee Alexandrina
xandrinaAlexandrina
Alexandrid a
aAlexandrinaAlexndrinaA
Alexandrina
Coorong
Tatiara
Kingston
Wattle Range
Naracoorte Lucindale NNaracoorteLucinNaracoorteLucindale
coortecoort LucinLuc
Lucindale NaracoorteL
aracoorte LucindaleuucindaleNN
Robe
Karoonda East Murray
Renmark Paringa
BridBridge ge BridgBridgee
ayy BriBridgdgdrrray
ge e MurrMurrrrararay Bry Bri
nd
MurrayBridge
Ceduna
Streaky Bay
WudinnaKimba
Elliston
Cleve
Tumby Bay
Whyalla
YorkePeninsula
Plains
Wakefi eld
Mid Murray
Gilbert Valleys
Goyder
Peterborough
nt Bntunt BaBa
ke
Barker Barker Mount BBMount Barker Mount Barknt Ba
Mount BarBar r MMMount BararMount Barker nt Ba
MoouMMo A
o
ills ls Adelaide HilAd
elaide Hills aide Hills
aide Hills Adelaidee
Hills
delaide Hills Ado
s Ade Hie Hills Adelail la
ideidells ls A
unou
ke
Barker
ringa Onkaparingringa
gOnkaparinga Onkaparinga
ringa Onkaparingag
OnkaparingaOnkaparinga Onkaparinga OnkapOnkaparinga Onkap
kaparinga Onkaparinga Onkapa
ringa Onkaparingap g p g pp g
kaparingaOnkaparinga p gp
ringa Onkaparinga On
ga Onkaparinga On
Onkaparinga
Mitcham
Unley
Playford
Salisbury
Tea Tree Gully
HoldfastBay
Marion
Burnside
CampbelltownCharles Sturt
WestTorrens
Norwood, Payneham & St Peters
Port Adelaide Enfi eldProspect
Walkerville
Gawler
Adelaide
Coober Pedy
16 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 17
:
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 19
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.
20 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 21
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 23
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
24 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 25
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
26 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 27
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.
28 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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).
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 29
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
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.
32 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
34 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 35
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.
36 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
(Procedures at Meetings) Regula
procedures handbook is available from
n proces
lities.
cifi c
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
n.
mally
n.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 37
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
38 Information for candidates in South Australian council elections
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
Telephone: 7424 7400
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
Telephone: 8269 3838
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.
Information for candidates in South Australian council elections 39
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