Skills, knowledge and ongoing learning

Useful skills for council members include:

  • listening and communication
  • collaboration and teamwork
  • time management
  • analytical and strategic thinking
  • timely and considered decision-making
  • managing difficult conversations
  • public speaking and community engagement
  • ability to use computers, mobile devices and other communication tools.

If you are elected, you will be required to complete a mandatory training program, Council Member Essentials, within twelve months of your election. This training is designed to assist you to fulfill this unique and challenging role.

In addition, each council is required to adopt a policy on continuous professional development (CPD) under which council members should engage in ongoing development opportunities to build relevant skills and knowledge.

The CEO must publish an annual report on council member training and CPD on the local government's website within one month after the end of the financial year to which the report relates.

A presenter standing at a lecturn engaging an audience

Progress 63%

 
Page reviewed 30 June 2023