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Wellington Shire Council's 'Election Period' from 17 September to 26 October 2024 ensures neutrality, focusing on routine services

From 17 September to 26 October 2024, Wellington Shire Council's 'Election Period' will enforce neutrality under the Local Government Act 2020, limiting communications to routine services and avoiding election influence.

By news@gippsland - 10th September 2024 - Back to News

From Tuesday 17 September until Saturday 26 October 2024, Wellington Shire Council will enter the 'Election Period' as part of preparations for the upcoming local government elections. During this time Wellington Shire Council must adhere to the requirements of the Local Government Act 2020 and council's Election Period Policy, ensuring all communications remain fair and neutral.

Local council elections occur every four years in October, run by the Victorian Electoral Commission. Our next Election Period starts 24 September 2024, with policy reviews required each term

Election period communication

While most council services will continue as usual, the most significant change is that no major decisions will be made that could either bind the incoming council or influence the election outcome. Throughout the Election Period, council's communications, including distribution of newsletters and posts on Facebook and Instagram, will focus exclusively on regular council activities.

These will be limited to information about ongoing services and responding to enquiries unrelated to the election or its outcomes. Importantly, there will be no mention of current or prospective councillor candidates, nor will any council or councillor achievements be highlighted during this time.

Additional changes during this period include restrictions on community engagement, major planning scheme amendments, community grant allocations, media and communications, and policy adoptions. These rules are designed to maintain neutrality and fairness, in alignment with the expectations of the Local Government Act 2020.

Election period policy

As a precaution, starting from the announcement of the ballot draw for running candidates on 18 September, council will manage and monitor any comments on its communication platforms that may be perceived as attempting to influence the election.

To read more, visit Wellington Shire Council's Election Period Policy website. For more information, contact council's governance team on 1300 366 244.

Pictures from Wellington Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com