There is nothing more rewarding than serving in the level of government closest to the community. Local councils need leaders who reflect the diverse nature of their communities and understand what matter to local people.

If you have a keen sense of community and desire to make a difference in your local area, then you should consider becoming a councillor.

Visit Become a councillor for more information.

The NSW Electoral Commission also publishes a range of guidance materials for candidates in the Local Government elections, including advice on eligibility, nomination, election campaign finances, voting and other election process. Go to the NSW Electoral Commission’s website at www.elections.nsw.gov.au.

Pre-election Guide for Councils

• Pre-Election guide-for councils – PDF – 604kb

Post-election Guide for Councils, County Councils and Joint Organisations 

• Coming soon!

Councillor Induction and Professional Development

To support amendments made to the Local Government Act 1993 in August 2016, regulations have been made requiring councils to provide induction training and ongoing professional development to mayors and councillors.

Visit Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines for more information.

• 22-35 Councils’ decisions on the administration of their September 2024 ordinary elections
• 23-05 Ward boundary and name changes
• 24-01 Constitutional referendums and council polls
• 24-04 New local government elections webpage launched on the Office of Local Government’s website
• 24-10 Resources for candidates standing at the local government elections

The NSW Electoral Commission has a range of general information about local government elections and advice on enrolment and voting in the elections. Visit the NSW Electoral Commission’s For Voters page for more information.

• Empowering women to run for council – Friday, 24 May 2024

Special arrangements can be made for our publications to be provided in large print or an alternative media format. Additionally, a translation service is available. If you need any of these services, please contact Client Services on 02 4428 4100. Visit Accessibility for more information.