Council
17 September, 2024
From citizens to councillors
Nominations are open for the October council election in Victoria, and the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is helping citizens to step into local leadership and stand for council.
MAV offers Victoria’s 79 local councils services and supports to create cities, regions, and towns that are thriving, resilient and inclusive.
Ahead of this year’s council elections, the MAV delivered 25 Stand for Council information sessions across the state with a terrific turnout .
MAV chief executive Kelly Grigsby said she’s seeing a wave of active citizenship, which is exactly what is needed to bolster effective local democracy.
“Councils are the closest level of government to their communities,” said Ms Grigsby.
“In Victoria, community expectations are evolving, underscoring the significant role of councillors who understand and champion the interests of their areas.”
Women rising up
MAV said the number of female councillors has been rapidly increasing over the last three electoral periods, with 34 per cent representation in 2012, to 38 per cent in 2016 and 43.8 per cent in 2020.
The last election saw Victoria lead the country in terms of the proportion of female councillors, and female representation is expected to rise again, with 50 per cent attendance at MAV’s Stand for Council sessions.
Diversity for democracy
In Victoria, 79 municipalities represent more than six million people, with populations varying from 4000 to almost 400,000.
“Ensuring the diverse needs and interests of Victoria are represented at a local level is incredibly important to our democracy,” said Ms Grigsby.
MAV has hosted information sessions with First Nations candidates, young people, LGBTIQ+ and CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) community members across the state to encourage diversity and boost candidate numbers from under-represented groups in local government.
What to expect
Whether you’re a music teacher, small business owners, or farmer, councillors are bringing a wide range of skills and knowledge to their roles and many continue to work in other sectors alongside their role in local government.
“If you have a passion and drive for your community, coupled with a willingness to learn and collaborate to make a positive difference, I encourage you to consider standing as a candidate for your local council,” said Ms Grigsby.
Nominations to be a Council election candidate are open until Tuesday 17 September 12pm noon.