Circulars

What’s new or changing?

• The Office of Local Government (OLG) has issued a 2024 edition of the Councillor Handbook to assist and inform new and returning councillors in the exercise of their functions.
• The Councillor Handbook is a “how to” guide to being a councillor and provides comprehensive guidance to councillors on all aspects of their role and responsibilities.
• The Councillor Handbook can be accessed under ‘Key Resources’ on OLG’s Being a councillor webpage.

What will this mean for council?

• Councils are encouraged to include the Councillor Handbook in the induction packs for new and returning councillors.
• Holding an induction program for councillors each council term is a mandatory requirement under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.
• OLG has issued Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines to guide councils on how to develop and deliver induction programs for newly elected and returning mayors and councillors.

Key points

•  The Councillor Handbook provides guidance and information on a range of topics including:
  • an overview of local government in NSW
  • a councillor’s role, responsibilities and relationships
  • the code of conduct and guidance for acting ethically
  • how to make the most of meetings
  • strategic planning and reporting
  • financial management
  • support for councillors.

Where to go for further information

• For more information, visit the ‘Key Resources’ section on OLG’s Being a councillor webpage.
• For more information on inducting new and returning councillors, see the Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines on OLG’s website.
• For further information please contact OLG’s Council Governance Team on 02 4482 4100 or by email at olg@olg.nsw.gov.au.

Brett Whitworth

Deputy Secretary

Office of Local Government