Ahead of the upcoming Council elections in October 2024, we’ve made some minor amendments to the existing Election Period Policy.
The objective of the policy is to ensure that the ordinary business of local government in the City of Bayside continues throughout the election period in a responsible and transparent manner, and in accordance with the legislated requirements. The Election Period will operate from the closure of receipt candidate nominations at 12pm, 17 September 2024, until Election Day, 6pm 26 October 2024.
The Election Period Policy prescribes actions and procedures the organisation will implement in observance of statutory requirements and established election period conventions in the interests of ensuring a fair election generally during the election period. This policy builds on the minimum statutory standards to enhance the accountability of the Council, Councillors and Council staff during the election period.
We’re seeking feedback to help us understand community sentiment around the amendments we have drafted for the Policy.
Have your say before consultation closes on 28 July 2024.
Proposed Amendments to the Policy
Certification responsibility amended from CEO to Manager Governance.
New section added outlining additional measures to be taken during Council meetings during the election period, including:
- CEO may reject Notices of Motion that contain electoral matter (though opportunity will be provided to the Councillor to re-word their Notice of Motion)
- CEO may reject Public Questions that contain electoral matter (though opportunity will be provided to the submitter to re-word their question)
- suspension of petitions and joint letters
- ensuring the absence of electoral matter in debate and commentary in the Council Chamber.
Information now included within Item 16.1
Clarification that requirement for candidates who are members of Council committees to take leave from the committee does not apply to candidates who are members of delegated committees of Council or regulatory committees
Have your say
Provide your feedback on the amendments to the policy by submitting your own written statement.
Upload a written statement
How to participate in this project
- Online via uploading a written statement on this page
- Ask a question in the Q&A forum
- Email Robert Lamb, Council
Business Lead rlamb@bayside.vic.gov.au
- Phone 03 9599 4691
- In person to the Corporate Centre at 76 Royal Avenue, Sandringham
- Post to Bayside City Council, PO Box 27 Sandringham 309
- Anonymously via the postal, phone or email details above
Please note: Materials can be provided in accessible formats on request.
Submissions close 5:00pm Sunday 28 July 2024.
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