During last night’s meeting, Campaspe Shire Council endorsed an updated Election Period Policy, ahead of the upcoming 2024 election. Aligning with the Local Government Act 2020, the revised policy introduces minor adjustments to support governance practices, and confirmed the date for the Campaspe Shire Council election will be Saturday, 26 October 2024.
The election period will apply from 24 September 2024 until 6pm on election day, Saturday 26 October 2024, inclusive. Commonly referred to as ‘caretaker period’ it is observed by all three tiers of government and the updated policy sets out the procedures to be applied by Council during this time.
Campaspe Shire Council CEO Pauline Gordon said the policy has been developed to ensure that elections are conducted in a manner that is ethical, fair, and equitable.
“The policy ensures that general and by-elections for Council are conducted with integrity, allowing the ordinary business of local government to continue during elections.
“Importantly, it sets parameters to prevent inappropriate decisions, actions, or resource usage during the election period.”
The policy aims to guarantee equal access to Council information for all candidates and specifies the procedures intended to prevent Council from making inappropriate decisions, taking inappropriate actions, or using resources inappropriately during the election period.
“It provides a framework for newly elected Council members and ensures the incoming Council is not unduly constrained by decisions of the previous Council.
“This policy underscores the commitment to fair and transparent governance, providing clear guidelines for Council operations during election periods,” Ms Gordon added.
