September 13th, 2024Important steps for council candidates

Candidates ready to stand in the upcoming Hepburn Shire Council election are being urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’s newly refreshed  Candidate Helper to get their applications ready for submission as nominations opened this Monday, September 9.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said there were several important steps candidates must complete before nominating.   

“If you want to represent your local community, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training through Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination,” he said.

“This rule applies to all candidates including those who are currently, or have previously been, a councillor.”   

The VEC’s online Candidate Helper at www.vec.vic.gov.au/council-candidate allows intending candidates to pre-fill their nomination forms before submitting them at their nomination appointment.

Candidates can also watch a series of videos on key topics such as the nomination process, including the rules and procedures that apply.

More information is available   online at www.vec.vic.gov.au. The Candidate Handbook is also available on the VEC  website.

Prospective candidates had also been encouraged to attend the candidate information sessions held in each electorate before this week’s opening of nominations.   

Prospective candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250 fee in person during business hours.   

They must provide evidence that they have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will be shown on each candidate’s nomination form.

Candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination form in person at the election office.

From Monday, September 9 candidates can call 131 832 and they will be directed  through to the relevant election office.

Nominations close at noon on Tuesday, September 17. Late nominations will not be accepted.

More information on nominating is available at www.vec.vic.gov.au