KINGSTON residents are being asked for feedback on changes to Victoria’s local government electoral regulations in the lead up to the October council elections.
Last changed in 2005, the current regulations will expire in August and the state government is inviting input from the community and local government sector to update them.
“We want to implement changes that will be best for voters, best for candidates and most importantly, best for democracy to ensure we have councils that truly represent their communities,” Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins said.
“Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy and it’s important we have robust rules in place to deliver those elections for Victorians.”
A number of suggested changes will be discussed over the coming months, including whether or not candidates should be required to disclose more information before nominating.
Another topic for discussion during the consultation phase is whether or not the VEC should be distributing candidates’ how-to-vote cards in postal ballot packs, which make up the majority of Victorian council elections.
Council elections to elect councillors are held every four years in Victoria and will take place on Saturday 22 October this year.
To have a say on the rules governing Victoria’s council elections, email local.government@delwp.vic.gov.au
Submissions close Friday 6 May. Further information is available online at delwp.vic.gov.au/local-government
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 13 April 2016