Want to make a difference? Consider running for your local council this September
Community members are called on to nominate as a candidate in the upcoming local government elections to be held on 16 October 2021.
The 2021 local government election campaign was recently launched by the department in partnership with the Western Australian Local Government Association.
People with diverse backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to come forward to be represented on local councils.
This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; women; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; people with disability; and young people aged 18 years and over.
In the 2019 elections, 35 per cent of people that nominated were women, while the average age of candidates was 54.
Anyone intending to nominate for election must first complete a free online induction course.
The induction course provides a basic understanding of the functions and responsibilities of a council member, and includes information on laws that govern the way an individual must conduct their election campaign.
The induction has been recently revised and updated with new and additional content, including information on the recently introduced Code of Conduct for candidates, council members and committee members.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to regularly check the department's website for updates about induction requirements and other matters related to local elections.
Nominations for the October elections open on 2 September 2021 and close at 4pm on 9 September 2021.