
How to become a councillor
Everything you need to know to stand at the next council election
Course overview
This short course is a crash introduction to local government and what you need to do to become a councillor.
If you are elected, you will need to work within a set legislative framework and to certain rules. It is important to understand these before you nominate as a candidate.
Being a councillor is also a complex and demanding job which requires a unique mix of skills, knowledge and personal qualities. This course will help you identify what you need know to succeed in your bid to be elected.
Who should do this course?
The course is for community leaders thinking about running as a candidate in the local government election in New South Wales in September 2021. This free mini course will help you decide if nominating for the election is the right decision for you.
It will also help you to identify where your skills and knowledge may fall short so that when you are elected, you can have a plan in place to plug those gaps as soon as possible.
Course content
This course will cover the key steps you need to action to become a councilllor:
Step 1: Check your eligibility and suitability
Step 2: Understand the role of local government
Step 3: Know the role of a local councillor
Step 4: Nominate and register as a candidate
Step 5: Campaign for your election
Get started now!
Your facilitator
Your instructor for this course is Emma Broomfield, the Founder and Chief Educator at Locale Learning. Emma is a trained lawyer and nationally accredited mediator with a passion for helping communities work better together. She strongly believes in the power of local leaders to transform local communities.
Over many years, Emma has worked with local councillors in a range of different capacities. This includes as a Code of Conduct reviewer, coach, trainer, legal advisor and conflict resolution specialist. Emma is known for her warm engaging style and practical training workshops.
What people say about Emma’s training style
"Very professional and astute."
"Informative, knowledgeable, presented well"
"Very engaging – thorough but not overwhelming"

Benefits of online learning
Flexible schedule – Fit your learning in around your busy schedule and personal commitments. Take the course at any time of the day or night from your laptop, tablet or phone.
Learn from anywhere – It doesn’t matter where you live. Sign up for the course, start from anywhere and save on precious travel time to the big smoke or commuting time in the city.
Learn at your own pace – Learn from relevant and engaging experts at your own pace. Move as fast or as slow as you like through the course. You get to set the pace.