Latrobe City Council has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to launch the Stand for Council campaign. This campaign is being delivered by 77 councils across the state to inspire and support potential candidates to nominate themselves to stand for council before the Council election in October 2024.
As the level of government closest to the community, it is important to find quality candidates who represent the needs, values, and aspirations of Latrobe City's community. Latrobe City Council is looking for people to Stand for Council who are committed and motivated and have a passion to create positive outcomes for the Gippsland region and its future.
To support potential candidates, three hybrid (in-person and online) Candidate Information Sessions are being held across Gippsland:
- Wednesday 24 July: Bairnsdale - Host: East Gippsland Shire Council
- Thursday 25 July: Leongatha - Host: South Gippsland Shire Council
- Monday 12 August: Morwell - Host: Latrobe City Council
These sessions will provide further information and inspiration about the nomination process. The MAV will also provide a Citizen to Councillor Guide 2024 - a guide for prospective candidates to further understand the roles and responsibilities of a councillor and the importance of this elected position.
Latrobe City Council CEO Steven Piasente said the significance of strong local leadership could not be understated in local government.
"As a Councillor, you are the link between Council and the community. Latrobe City Council has a proud history of community representation, which relies on community leaders to put their hand up and become a candidate.
"Standing for Council is a unique opportunity for an aspiring leader to contribute to a better community for everyone. I encourage anyone thinking about standing to come along in-person or join online to one of the Gippsland information sessions and utilise the resources of the MAV Stand for Council campaign. Our democracy is only as strong as the people who are in it."
MAV CEO Kelly Grisby said the MAV Stand for Council campaign is designed to encourage and support a diverse range of candidates from across the Victorian community including first nations, and new and emerging communities.
"If you are thinking of nominating for council as a candidate, these sessions and resources will help you to further consider the broad responsibilities of a councillor, the wide range of issues you will be required to make decisions about and the time commitment," Ms Grigsby explained.
