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Making a run for Local Government can mean as little as publicly declaring your candidacy through to a full-blown election campaign. It will depend on your budget, time, personal style, networks and support and commitment. Candidates seeking election to their local council usually consider using a combination of strategies depending on their circumstances. These may include:
In some instances, it can include:
Most Local Government candidates hope to run effective campaigns using limited funds and the support of family, friends and like-minded individuals.
An effective campaign is one that doesn’t overstretch you or your family but has the essential elements that will:
Develop a campaign strategy and stick to it, despite the bumps and knocks you might take along the way. Think about the core community issues you wish to represent and build your campaign around them. Try to be topical and timely, positive in your approach and constructive in your ideas. Choose your issues carefully and don’t buy into public debates unless they are consistent with your campaign strategy.
The components you choose to include in your campaign will depend on your circumstances and the people you can call on to support you. Local council candidates, who already know their community well, have strong community networks and a public profile are off to a good start. If you are relatively ‘unknown’ in your community, the earlier you start building your public profile, the better.
It is essential that you are familiar with, and abide by, electoral requirements (ie spending limits, authorisation, etc.). These are set out by the Tasmanian Electoral Commission.
This webpage was prepared by the Department of Premier and Cabinet's Communities, Sport and Recreation Division and Local Government Division.