Role of an elected member
As elected members of the City of Clarence you have a central role in representing the diverse needs of the community and providing leadership on behalf of the municipality.
Elected members, known as Councillors, are elected to represent the interests of the community and contribute to council’s decision-making processes, including setting the strategic direction and priorities for the council, and for making decisions that reflect the long-term interests and wellbeing of the community as a whole.
However, it is important to remember that no individual Councillor has the authority to make decisions on behalf of the City of Clarence.
Decisions are made collectively by the elected body and only take effect when resolved at a formal Council or committee meeting.
Councillors also have a stewardship role in overseeing council’s performance, financial sustainability and accountability, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and that council remains focused on delivering agreed outcomes.
In undertaking your role, you’ll work collectively and within the legislative framework of local government, maintaining a focus on good governance, transparency and the best interests of the community and the council.
Councillor Responsibilities
Councillors are responsible for representing the community and contributing to the effective governance of the City of Clarence. In practical terms, this includes:
- attending and participating in Council and committee meetings prepared and informed – more about meetings
- making planning decisions as a planning authority, having considered proposals against planning laws and policy, as well as the interests of the community – more about planning
- making decisions on Council policies, strategies, budgets and key priorities
- representing the interests and perspectives of the broader community, not just individual viewpoints
- engaging with residents, stakeholders and community groups to understand issues and feedback
- considering reports, officer advice and relevant information before making decisions
- acting in accordance with relevant legislation, codes of conduct and Council policies
- contributing to the development and review of Council’s strategic direction and plans
- monitoring Council’s performance and financial sustainability at a strategic level
- supporting transparent, respectful and accountable decision-making processes
- working collaboratively with other Councillors to achieve collective outcomes for the city
- appointing and reviewing the Chief Executive Officer.
Representing Council
As a Councillor, you will have many opportunities to represent the City of Clarence at community events, ceremonies, meetings, functions and other engagements. These occasions are an important way for Councillors to connect with the community, build relationships and demonstrate Council’s commitment to the people and organisations it serves.
When representing Council, you are expected to act professionally, respectfully and in a manner that reflects positively on the council. Your conduct contributes to the community’s perception of City of Clarence and can help build trust and confidence in local government.
It is important to remember that representing Clarence does not necessarily mean speaking on behalf of council. Unless authorised to do so, Councillors should avoid presenting personal views as official Council positions.
The Mayor is Council’s principal spokesperson and is responsible for communicating Council’s adopted positions on behalf of the elected body – see media and communications section.
Where and how elected members represent Council
Councillors may represent Clarence in a variety of settings, including:
- community events, celebrations and commemorations
- citizenship ceremonies and civic functions – see Citizenship Ceremonies and awards
- meetings with community groups, businesses and stakeholders
- Council committees
- conferences, workshops and professional development activities
- regional, state and national local government forums
- official openings, launches and public events.
When attending events or engagements in an official capacity, Councillors are encouraged to:
- be respectful, approachable and professional
- listen to and engage constructively with community members
- promote Council’s strategic priorities and positive community outcomes
- respect the roles of fellow Councillors, staff and event organisers
- be mindful of confidentiality and Council’s adopted positions
- clarify when expressing a personal opinion rather than an official Council position.
Representing Clarence is an opportunity to strengthen relationships with the community. By engaging positively and professionally, Councillors help foster community confidence and demonstrate Council’s commitment to serving the municipality.