Acting Mayor of the Dubbo Region Stephen Lawrence has encouraged all residents to consider whether they or someone they know might be interested in contesting the 4 September 2021 local government election.
“The election is less than five months away. I would like to encourage everyone to consider whether they, or someone they know, might make a good Councillor,” said Councillor Lawrence.
“Local government is a wonderful opportunity for passionate community-minded people to serve the community in a substantial way. It is different to other levels of politics and always should be. I really hope people see it as accessible to them. Councillors are elected to attend council meetings and vote on the strategic framework of council’s operations and to be community leaders. Our hard working staff then undertake the work of service provision.”
Councillor Lawrence said a strong list of candidates would lead to a strong Council.
“It’s so important that electors have as wide a range of candidates as possible. Democracy I think flourishes in such circumstances. And similarly government operates best with a real diversity of voices and perspectives at the table. For example I particularly hope that we see a range of Aboriginal, female and ethnically diverse candidates.”
NSW Local Government Elections will be held on 4 September 2021 and 10 Councillors will be elected to Dubbo Regional Council. Nominations will open on 26 July 2021 and close on 4 August 2021.
While 10 Councillors will be elected, residents will only vote for two Councillors who fall into the geographical area they are enrolled in, known as a ward.
“I would encourage people to also check what ward they are enrolled in. The region is split into five wards that elect two Councillors each. Wellington, North, South, East and Central. There is no doubt the wards can be a bit confusing, for example West Dubbo is in North ward and south Dubbo in central. Accordingly, it’s best to do some research beforehand,” said Councillor Lawrence.
People can go to https://www.elections.nsw.gov.au/Elections/Local-government-elections/Local-Government-Elections-2021 for more information.
Source: DRC