Are you thinking of running in the next council election? 

We help candidates prepare to run for civic office. If you are still sitting on the fence, we can also help you decide whether to take the plunge.

Free resources for candidates

We’ve created a range of free resources for aspiring local government candidates in NSW. These tools and guides are tailored to help you in your candidate journey. Not in NSW? While many of our resources are universally valuable, be sure to check local requirements in your area.

 Already a councillor? Explore leadership programs designed for your next chapter.

Candidate checklist

Before you dive in the deep end, download our free checklist for candidates. This is a list of must-do activities for community members thinking about running in the local government election in New South Wales in 2024.

It will help you decide if running for civic office is right thing for you right now. 

Political skills reflection tool

Being a local councillor requires universal and specific leadership skills. The self-led process covers the positive and negative behaviours related to six skill areas of political leadership. It will give you a solid gauge of where you are and where you can grow.

Take 30 minutes now to gain the valuable insight you need to be a successful candidate and councillor.

Podcast: diary of a candidate

Tune into our monthly fireside chat with a real life candidate as we explore the questions that are top of mind of every candidate. This six part podcast series goes behind the corflute signs to follow the journey of a courageous community member putting her hand up for election. 

Discover answers to 'front of mind' candidate questions - listen along in the car, on your walk or with your cuppa.  

Diary of a candidate | Podcast | Locale Learning
7 day candidate launchpad challenge | Locale Learning

Candidate launchpad challenge

Get crystal clear on your readiness to run in the upcoming local government election and set-up yourself for success. This complimentary seven day challenge will help you decide if becoming a councillor is the right fit for you at this point in your life.  

Gain clarity about your motivations, values and vision and how this aligns with being a local government councillor.

Coaching for candidates

Deciding to run for council is a big decision, and we’re here to help you make the right choice. Our tailored coaching service for aspiring candidates guides you through the process.


Through a series of self-reflection exercises, you’ll assess your strengths, knowledge, and readiness to meet the requirements of being a councillor in New South Wales. In a one-on-one coaching session, we’ll help you identify areas of growth and support your journey.


We’ll also explore your motivations for wanting to serve your community, helping you align your passion with the responsibilities of civic leadership.

More information for candidates

The information on this website is general in nature. It is your responsibility as a candidate to understand all aspects of the conduct of local government elections in your particular jurisdiction including whether you need to complete mandatory training as a candidate. For detailed guidance on regulations and legislative requirements: 

 If you are candidate in the Queensland local government elections, check with the Queensland Electoral Commission and the Department of State Development and Infrastructure 

 If you are candidate in the New South Wales local government elections, check with the NSW Electoral Commission and the NSW Office of Local Government

 If you are candidate in the Victorian local government elections, check with the Victorian Electoral Commission and Victorian Government 

 If you are candidate in the Northern Territory local government elections, check with the Northern Territory Electoral Commission and Northern Territory Local Government Association

 If you are candidate in the Western Australia local government elections, check with the Western Australian Electoral Commission and the Electoral Education Centre.

 If you are candidate in the Tasmania local government elections, check with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission and Department of Premier and Cabinet

 If you are candidate in the South Australia local government elections, check with the Electoral Commission South Australia and LGA South Australia.
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Training for councillors with a difference

We are changing the game in training and support for our elected leaders. Humans first is our motto. Support for the whole leader is our ethos. From ethics, governance, mindset, wellbeing and technical know-how about the local government system, we teach the big and little skills needed to effectively lead and govern as a local councillor. And most importantly, to be impactful leader for the community you serve.

Learn, lead and succeed

Explore articles and webinars packed with leadership skills, practical tools, and technical knowledge — everything local councillors need to lead their communities with confidence. Check out our latest insights and resources, and start building your impact.

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