If you want to be involved in the future of your community, and are willing to learn and participate, then you should explore what it takes to be a councillor and nominate for local government elections.
Importance of Councillors
Many people in our local communities can provide 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.
Becoming a councillor provides an opportunity to influence local directions and create long-term, positive outcomes within your community. Being a councillor is also a rewarding challenge — one which requires commitment, responsibility and accountability.
A councillor’s primary role is to represent their district and the people who live in it. Councillors provide a bridge between the community and the council. As well as being an advocate for local residents, Councillors play an important role in keeping their communities informed about issues that affect them.
Prospective Councillors
Prospective Councillors are encouraged to attend a Council meeting to find out how Council works and whether it would be a good fit for you. Council meetings are open to the general public.
Find out more about Council meetings, agendas and minutes.
If you are interested in nominating as a Councillor, prior to nomination you must complete the Candidate Induction.
Elected members are provided with a comprehensive induction in the week following the election and will be enrolled in training. Councillors must also abide by a Code of Conduct.
The following websites provide a wealth of information and guidance for prospective Councillors:
Local Government elections
Local government ordinary elections are held on the third Saturday in October every two years. The next state-wide ordinary elections are scheduled for October 2025.
More information and contact
Potential candidates are welcome to contact the Chief Executive Officer for a confidential conversation by phoning (08) 9780 5200 or alternatively you can contact your local Councillor.