Model code of meeting practice

The model code of meeting practice for local councils in NSW prescribes a uniform set of rules to ensure council and committee meetings are open, accessible, orderly, effective and efficient.

Councils must adopt a code of meeting practice that incorporates the mandatory provisions of the code, under section 360 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.

The code applies to meetings attended only by councillors. Council committees whose members include persons other than councillors may adopt their own rules for meetings, unless the council determines otherwise.

Following extensive consultation, the new 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 423 KB) will be prescribed. A key focus of the changes made to the 2025 Model Meeting Code is to ensure meetings are conducted in a dignified and orderly way befitting to a chamber of democracy and to promote community confidence in councils and their decisions.

For further information about the new 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW, read the frequently asked questions (PDF, 155 KB).

The 2025 Model Meeting Code has 2 elements, mandatory provisions and non-mandatory provisions.

The non-mandatory provisions covers areas of meeting practice that are common to most councils but where there may be a need for some variation in practice between councils based on local circumstances. These provisions also operate to set a benchmark based on what the Office of Local Government sees as best practice for the relevant area of practice.

The 2025 Model Meeting Code also applies to meetings of the boards of joint organisations and county councils. The provisions that are specific to meetings of boards of joint organisations are indicated in blue font.

Councils must adopt a code of meeting practice that incorporates the mandatory provisions of the 2025 Model Meeting Code no later than 31 December 2025. Councils are required to consult with their communities prior to adopting a code of meeting practice. For more details on the guidance on adoption and implementation of the new code, read the frequently asked questions (PDF, 155 KB).