With the Western Australian State election to be held in March 2025 and a Federal Election to take place within the next year, WALGA has developed a guidance document for Council Members considering participation in State or Federal politics.
With a focus on the ongoing responsibilities of the Council Member role, the document identifies relevant requirements under the Local Government Act 1995 and Local Government (Model Code of Conduct) Regulations 2021.
Unlike some other States, Local Government in WA does not feature official political party affiliations and endorsement. As a result, community and media interest often arises when Council Members are publicly aligned with political parties, seek preselection, or nominate as candidates for a State or Federal election. Similar considerations are also likely to arise if a Council Member intends to run as an independent candidate in a State or Federal election.
In these circumstances, it is necessary to balance the rights of Council Members to participate in democratic processes with the responsibilities, obligations, and commitments of their role as a Council Member.
This document highlights and discusses possible scenarios and matters for consideration in managing these responsibilities.
Guidance Council Member State Federal Candidacy
For any queries, please contact the WALGA Governance team via governance@walga.asn.au
