Alf Della Monica – Regional Manager VIC/TAS
The 2024 Victorian Local Government Elections will be held on the 26th October 2024.
Of the 79 Victorian councils, 39 will have multi-member wards replaced with single-member wards because of the Local Government Act 2020.
New Councillors will also be elected in Casey and Whittlesea for the first time since 2016 after councils were dismissed in February 2020 and March 2020 respectively. Moira’s council was dismissed in March 2023 and will not elect another council until October 2028.
Caretaker Period commenced on Tuesday 24th September (midday) and ends on Saturday 26th October at 6pm (Election Day). During the Caretaker Period, the Council will not make decisions that:
- Are significant in nature.
- Would unnecessarily bind an incoming Council.
- Appoint or revise the remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer.
- Commit Council to expenditure exceeding one percent of council’s income from general rates, municipal charges and service fees and charges.
Following the elections, all Victorian councils will be required to do the following by 31st October in the year following the general election (by 31st October 2025):
- Review the 10 Year Council Vision in accordance with its deliberative engagement practices.
- Develop and adopt a 4-year Council Plan in accordance with its deliberative engagement practices.
- Develop, adopt and keep in force a 10-year Financial Plan in accordance with its deliberative engagement practices.
- Develop, adopt and keep in force a 10-year Asset Plan in accordance with its deliberative engagement practices.
This all opens opportunities for CT Management Group in that councils with resourcing issues will require assistance with the delivery of these important tasks. Not only that but lead up tasks such as:
- The review and update of Asset Management Plans including renewal modelling.
- The review of Asset Management Policies and Strategies.
- Long Term Financial Planning assistance and possible requirement for our expertise and products.
Financial sustainability in the current cost of living climate will further provide opportunities as councils tackle this issue as well as years of rate capping also affecting their bottom lines and current cash flows and will provide us with further opportunities promote core services such as:
- Service Planning and linking this with Asset Management.
- Service Reviews.
Our Associates are a very important part of our business development. If you hear of opportunities while placed in a position or working on a project, please let us know, it could lead to your next placement or project with us!