5 May 2008

The New South Wales Electoral Commission (NSWEC) will this week begin the first round of its information sessions for candidates considering standing at the September local council elections.

Some 5,000 candidates are expected to contest more than 300 individual elections in 149 council areas across the State on Saturday 13 September.

“This is an initiative to ensure candidates standing for local government are fully aware of their obligations and responsibilities under the law,” said NSW Electoral Commissioner Colin Barry.

“Anyone thinking of becoming a councillor is encouraged to attend a seminar to learn first hand about the electoral process, including how to nominate, form groups, register how-to-vote material and declare donations.

“The public expects high quality, informed candidates to stand for local council so we are also urging current councillors who intend to run again to brush up on the electoral laws.”

The free seminars will be held at 29 locations across NSW, including 21 regional centres
between 7 May and 28 June.

The schedule for May includes:

07 May Burwood
10 May Wagga Wagga, Albury
14 May Chatswood
17 May Tamworth, Armidale, Young
20 May Hurstville
21 May Gosford, Goulburn
22 May Kiama, Newcastle
24 May Narooma, Taree
29 May Penrith
30 May Lismore
31 May Bathurst, Byron Bay

More information on the candidate information sessions, including times and venues is
available at www.elections.nsw.gov.au or by calling 1300 135 736.

Media Contact: Adrian Kerr, Corporate Communications
(02) 9290 5954 adrian.kerr@elections.nsw.gov.au