Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy review 2025

A Model Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy was released by the Office of Local Government in 2018. Council’s policy mirrors this.

Proposed changes

• Updating wording to reflect the title General Manager (not CEO) and Director (not Portfolio General Manager)

Background

The Local Government Act 1993 includes a responsibility for Councillors ‘’to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills necessary to perform the role of a Councillor.’’ Further, Part 8A Clauses 183-186 Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 outlines the obligations of the General Manager, Mayors and Councillors for professional development.

An amount of $88,000 is provided in the Operational Plan for Councillors’ training and professional development with up to $8,000 available per Councillor per year. This amount can be adjusted according to Council requirements with the quarterly budget review process. Expenditure will be monitored and reported in the quarterly financial reviews, and included in the Annual Report.

Council’s induction and professional development programs consists of three elements:

• Pre-Election Candidate Sessions

To ensure prospective candidates are aware of what will be expected of them if elected (these are not mandatory but are encouraged).

• Induction Program

To equip Mayors and Councillors with the information they need to perform their role effectively over the first few months, with a particular focus on building positive, collaborative relationships between Councillors and with staff.

• Professional Development Program

To be developed in consultation with all Councillors and delivered over the term of the Council to build the skills, knowledge and personal attributes necessary to be an effective Mayor or Councillor.

Have your say