The Andrews Labor Government has delivered the most significant reforms to the local government sector in more than 30 years, ensuring councils can best serve the communities they represent.

The new Local Government Act 2020 introduces wide-ranging reforms to improve democracy, accountability and service delivery across Victoria’s 79 councils.

This new Act is the result of extensive consultation with councils, ratepayers, stakeholders and communities to reform how local government works in Victoria.

The first phase of the reforms will improve community confidence in their councils by introducing mandatory training for candidates intending to stand at the October local government elections.

Other reforms that will be introduced in the first phase include measures to improve community engagement, public transparency, strategic planning, financial management and service performance.

Local Government Victoria is continuing to work closely with councils and the sector to guide the reform and the implementation of the Act.

Information on the Local Government Act 2020 is available at localgovernment.vic.gov.au.