Published on 23 August 2024
Candidates ready to stand in the upcoming West Wimmera Shire Council postal election are urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC’s) newly refreshed Candidate Helper to get their applications ready for submission when nominations open on Monday 9 September. Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel reminded candidates that there are several important steps they must complete before nominating. ‘If you want to represent your local community, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training through Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination. This rule applies to all candidates, including those who are currently or have previously been a councillor,’ Mr Bluemmel said. The VEC’s online Candidate Helper at vec.vic.gov.au/council-candidate allows candidates to pre-fill their nomination forms before submitting them at their nomination appointment. Candidates can also watch a series of videos on key topics such as the nomination process, including the rules and procedures that apply. More information is available online at vec.vic.gov.au. The Candidate Handbook is also available on the VEC website. Prospective candidates are also encouraged to attend the candidate information sessions being held in each electorate before the opening of nominations. Prospective candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250 fee in person during business hours. They must provide evidence that they have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will be shown on each candidate’s nomination form. Candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination form in person at the election office by calling the Candidate Helpline 03 8620 1316 between Tuesday 20 August and Monday 9 September. From Monday 9 September candidates can call 131 832 and they will be directed through to the relevant election office. Nominations close at 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September. Late nominations will not be accepted. More information on nominating is available at vec.vic.gov.au
Requirements for candidates under the Local Government Act 2020
Under the Local Government Act 2020 candidates must meet the following requirements in order to nominate as a candidate.
Nomination
Under the Act, a candidate must:
and
Training
The Act requires candidates to complete the mandatory online local government candidate training before nominating. All candidates must complete the online training – even if they are currently or have been a councillor. Information on the mandatory online local government candidate training is available from Local Government Victoria at https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/candidate-training Further information is available on the VEC website at vec.vic.gov.au/candidates-and-parties/becoming-a-local-council-candidate/local-council-candidate-resources, where prospective candidates can download a copy of the Candidate Handbook to familiarise themselves with the key requirements and responsibilities of nominating.
Elected candidates will represent their community on the council until the next general election in 2028.
Ballot draw and candidate information
The final list of candidates in ballot paper order for all councils holding elections, except Melbourne City Council, will be available on the VEC website on the afternoon of Wednesday 18 September following the ballot draws. Where lodged, candidates’ personal statements, photographs and answers to the optional candidate questionnaire will be published on the VEC website from Wednesday 18 September (Tuesday 24 September for Melbourne City Council elections).