Standing for Council
The decisions of councils affect the lives of everyone in our community. Becoming a councillor is a great hands-on way to serve your community and positively influence future directions and outcomes for your municipality.
Mansfield Shire Council has five councillors elected for a four-year term that work in a style that reflects a board of directors.
Councillors are responsible for setting policy and providing vision and strategic direction to the organisation. Councillors meet regularly through briefings and officially as the council at monthly scheduled meetings.
Standing for election provides a great opportunity to influence the future direction of the local community and to help those who require support.
Mandatory Candidate Training
Under the Local Government Act 2020, candidates have to undertake mandatory candidate training when considering standing for Council which will help candidates understand what is involved in becoming a councillor.
Candidates must complete the course to be eligible to nominate with the Victorian Electoral Commission. This includes all serving or former councillors intending to nominate.
The course ensures candidates fully understand the role of a councillor and its requirements and should take around an hour to complete.
Local Government Victoria Candidate Training
FAQ
Who qualifies to be a councillor?
The Local Government Act 2020 (the Act) lists the qualifications to be a councillor and the electoral provisions for being on the voters roll.
How can I nominate for council elections?
Candidates are required to nominate with the Victorian Electoral Commission. The Local Government Act 2020 requires candidates to nominate in person. Nominees must make an appointment with their local Election Office.
Read the Victorian Electoral Commission's 'Candidate handbook'.
Information for Candidates
Community and Candidate Information Sessions
Mansfield Shire Council partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to deliver the 2024 Stand for Council: Community and Candidate Information Sessions.
The Stand for Council Program provided prospective candidates important information regarding the 2024 council elections, the role of council and the responsibilities of being a councillor. It aims to build community awareness to understand the important role of voters in delivering local democracy and representation.
Those who attend a Stand for Council Community and Candidate Information Session were provided with information about:
- Local government and the important role councils play for our local communities
- The role and responsibility of a Councillor, Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO
- The election process and candidate requirements
- What newly elected councillors can expect soon after the elections
- Councillor training and development opportunities