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Putting the ‘local’ in local government

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Official duties: Five City of Greater Shepparton councillors, Greg James, Anthony Brophy, Geoff Dobson, Seema Abdullah and Dinny Adem, attending the opening of the Maude St redevelopment, just one of the many duties they have undertaken during their term. Photo by Murray Silby

There are some common stereotypes for local government, and councillors in particular, but how many people would put up their hand to take on the task themselves?

Greater Shepparton residents open to becoming councillors are invited to attend an information session that will provide them with an insight into what the job actually entails.

Greater Shepparton City Council will host the session on Thursday, July 20 to give residents a feel for what being a councillor looks like, including time commitments, responsibilities and general requirements under the Local Government Act 2020.

Local government elections will be held in Victoria in 2024 and the information session is designed to give attendees a greater understanding of the role of a councillor and whether they themselves would consider standing for election.

“Attendees will also hear from Bendigo City Council Mayor, Cr Andrea Metcalf, who will be sharing her journey to council and her personal experience in the role as a councillor,” Greater Shepparton City Council chief executive Peter Harriott said.

The 2020 Victorian local government election results set a new national record for female representation, with women making up 43.8 per cent of elected councillors, as the third tier of government continues towards its goal of gender equality by 2025.

“Council is an inclusive and safe space, and Greater Shepparton councillors represent the bold, multicultural community which our region is known for,” Mr Harriott said.

“Everyone is welcome to attend the information session, with women from the Greater Shepparton community encouraged to come along.”

Details

The candidate information session will be held at the North Shepparton Community and Learning Centre, 10-14 Parkside Dve, Shepparton on Thursday, July 20 from noon to 1pm.

Residents interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP before Friday, July 14 at shepp.city/candidateinfo

Light catering and tea and coffee will be provided.