City to host information sessions for Council election candidates

Are you considering running for Council this year? The City of Greater Bendigo is hosting a series of information sessions for people thinking of becoming a candidate.

Chief Executive Officer Craig Niemann said the aim of the sessions was to encourage people from all walks of life, all backgrounds, abilities, ages, gender, ethnicity to consider standing for Council.

“The best way to ensure all voices in our community are heard is to have a diverse range of candidates stand for election,” Mr Niemann said.

“We want to demystify the process so people can understand what is required of a Councillor and decide if it’s something they want to consider.

“This is a great opportunity for residents to be informed and ask questions about the role of Council and Councillors in the community and get an understanding of the many services it is responsible for funding and delivering.”

The first session will focus on the strategic role of Local Government and will feature former State Ministers for Local Government Bob Cameron, of Bendigo, and Jeanette Powell, of Shepparton.

When: Tuesday March 10, 12:30pm-1:30pm

Where: Activity Room 1, Bendigo Library

Please register your attendance, including any requirements, by Thursday March 5, at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/election2020

The 2020 Council elections will take place in October this year, when nine community members will be elected to the role of Councillor for a period of four years. To nominate for election, a person must be an Australian citizen or qualified British subject, at least 18 years of age on election day, enrolled to vote in the municipality and eligible to stand under the Local Government Act.

Nominations for Council elections open on September 17 and close on September 22.

Election day is on October 24. The results are declared by the Victorian Electoral Commission by November 6 at the latest.

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