Local Government Minister John Carey is calling on community members to consider nominating themselves as a candidate in the upcoming elections to be held on October 16, 2021.
It comes as the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries in partnership with the Western Australian Local Government Association today began their 2021 local government election campaign.
Mr Carey emphasised the importance of people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to be represented on local councils.
This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; women; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; people with disability; and young people aged 18 years and over.
In the 2019 elections, 35 per cent of people that nominated were women, while the average age of candidates was 54.
Anyone intending to nominate for election must first complete a free online induction course, which is available on the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ website at https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/local-government
The induction course provides a basic understanding of the functions and responsibilities of a council member, and includes information on laws that govern the way an individual must conduct their election campaign.
The induction has been recently revised and updated with new and additional content, including information on the recently introduced Code of Conduct for candidates, council members and committee members.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to regularly check the department’s website for updates about induction requirements and other matters related to local elections.
Nominations for the October elections open on September 2, 2021 and close at 4pm on September 9, 2021.
As stated by Local Government Minister John Carey:
“From my personal experience as Mayor of the City of Vincent, I can vouch that representing your community as a local council member is an amazing experience and a real opportunity to make a difference.
“If you have ideas to make your community a better place to live and do business, I strongly encourage you to consider putting yourself forward – especially those people from groups historically underrepresented on local councils.
“In 2019, only 35 per cent of people that nominated for council were women, while the average age was 54.
“I’d like to see more women, young people, those living with disabilities and people from culturally diverse backgrounds putting their hands up.
“Having more diversity in local government can bring enormous benefits, including better decision-making and the ability to draw on a wider range of experiences and skills.
“These local government elections are significant in that they are the first Ordinary Elections since the commencement of the pandemic.
“We’re looking for local council members who can play an active and important role in assisting their communities to recover from the impact of COVID-19.”
