The following comments can be attributed to City of Greater Geelong Director Governance, Strategy & Performance Rebecca Leonard:
What can the City of Greater Geelong Council do during the council election period?Councillors can continue to fulfil their duties during the election period, in line with the City’s Election Period Policy, Councillor Code of Conduct and Local Government Act 2020. Our updated Election Period Policy was approved by Council on Tuesday 1 September 2020 and details the procedures that apply during the election period from noon 22 September to 6pm 24 October. The Policy ensures the fairness of the election, guides appropriate use of City resources and prevents inappropriate decision making.
What can’t the council do?
Prohibited decisions and activities are detailed in the Election Period Policy, in line with the Local Government Act. Councillors are prohibited from making decisions that could affect voting in the election or could unfairly commit the incoming Council to a major course of action or could have reasonably been made after the election. There are also limitations on community engagement and council events during this period.
Is the Mayor’s usual authority entirely removed between 22 September and the election?
No, Councillors and the Mayor will continue to fulfil their duties in line with the City’s Election Period Policy, Councillor Code of Conduct and Local Government Act 2020, unless granted leave of absence.
Are there any circumstances where councillors can be recalled and vote on matters? If so, what are they?
A Council Meeting is scheduled during the election period, on Tuesday 20 October, to consider the Annual Report. Procedural matters may also be considered at this time. Ministerial approval must be granted for any exceptional circumstances that requires a council vote.
