Resources
On this page you’ll find links to a range of resources, social media groups and other content that candidates may find useful.
Please note that all links open in external websites that are not owned or managed by Rainbow Local Government.
Local council elections – key dates
Elections are held every 4 years for all Victorian councils. The next council elections will take place this October for all councils except Moira Shire Council.
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Tuesday 20 August 2024 – Candidate Helper available
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Monday 9 September 2024 – Candidate nominations open at 9 am
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Tuesday 17 September 2024 – Nominations, candidate statements, photographs, and questionnaires close at 12 noon
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Wednesday 18 September 2024 – Ballot draw
Mandatory training
The Victorian Government provides mandatory training for anyone wishing to nominate as a candidate in any council elections.
The training can be accessed here: https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/candidate-training.
Victoria Electoral Commission (VEC)
Becoming a local council candidate
Candidate information video series
MAV Citizen to Councillor Guide
The MAV Citizen to Councillor Guide is a comprehensive resource to becoming a local government councillor in Victoria.
From understanding the role of a councillor to navigating the election campaign, the Guide covers every aspect of becoming a local government representative, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges and rewards of public office.
Women candidates
Women For Election
Women for Election (WFE) is a non-partisan, for purpose organisation with a mission to achieve gender equality at all levels of government in Australia.
WFE inspires and equips women and non-binary folk to run for public office through place based and online training events that address the barriers to women’s political participation.
More Women in Local Government
The More Women for Local Government (MWFLG) Facebook Group supports women standing for Victorian Local Government elections. It is a forum for potential women local government candidates, their supporters, elected women councillors and those who support the increase in numbers and diversity of women in local governments.
MWFLG is a closed Facebook Group, owned and administered by three community-minded volunteer women moderators who are passionate about encouraging women in local government.
Candidate resources
Run for it
We support young people who are leaders in their communities to run strategic and strong campaigns to get elected to local councils across Australia.
Politics in colour
Featuring Australia’s diverse politicians and candidates, we discover inspirational stories of how every day people overcome barriers and challenges to get elected.
Designed specifically to address the challenges and barriers facing people from under-served communities, our online workshops assist diverse Australians considering a career in politics.
Stand for Council
In partnership with Victorian councils, the Muncipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is delivering a number of information sessions for the community and prospective candidates. These sessions can be attended either in-person or online.
Ruth McGowan: Get Elected
Ruth McGowan supports new and emerging leaders in the Local Goverment sector to manage the pressures and master the politics of exceptional leadership.
- Get Elected: A step-by-step campaign guide to winning public office: local, state, and federal.