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Guide to Councils

Guide Index
What councils do
How councils work
Council elections
Finance and planning
How councils make decisions
Consultation and complaints

Our comprehensive guide will help you understand the role of local councils and how they work

What councils do Councils provide a wide variety of services to their municipalities and enforce various federal, state and local laws for their communities. Read more about What councils do
How councils work Local government is the level of government closest to the people and gives people a say in matters affecting their local area. Read more about How councils work
Council elections Local Government elections are the largest government elections run in Victoria. Around 2,000 candidates contest more than 250 different elections across 79 councils. Read more about Council elections
Finance and planning Councils manage substantial finances to enable them to provide a wide range of public services and maintain considerable public infrastructure. Read more about Finance and planning
How councils make decisions Councils are empowered by law to make decisions on many matters of importance to their local communities. Read more about How councils make decisions
Consultation and complaints Councils are responsible for a wide range of activities. They make significant decisions that affect their municipality and will often consult with affected residents on these decisions. Read more about Consultation and complaints

Information in this guide has been provided as a general guide only, and may not take into account all of the local circumstances. This guide should also not be regarded as representing professional or legal advice. You should seek your own professional or legal advice before acting on any matter.