Print Version PDFExpectations of Councillors
So what do councillors actually do?
Councillors need to demonstrate effective leadership if their communities are to meet challenges and develop long-term visions and goals that guide the future of their municipalities.
Personal characteristics and attributes that the community expects from its councillors include:
- Honest and ethical behaviour;
- Motivated to perform the role;
- Reliablility;
- Knowledgeable about the community;
- Influenced by community concerns;
- Good communication.
Councillors are required to participate in a wide variety of activities, both as elected representatives of the community and as members of the governing body of council. These include:
- Responding to requests, explaining actions and defending council decisions;
- Advocating issues and balancing competing obligations;
- Debating issues and decision making;
- Developing the Council Plan and reporting back;
- Budget and financial overview;
- Supporting economic development;
- Consideration of development applications;
- CEO Performance review.
The Local Government Act requires councillors to perform their duties with a high level of probity, especially when dealing with matters that may affect their material well-being. The community is entitled to expect that:
- The business of the council is conducted with efficiency, effectiveness and impartiality;
