The Policy has been updated for currency and consistency in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and complies with the Office of Local Government’s Guidelines for the payment of expenses and provision of facilities to Mayors and Councillors in NSW.

This Policy applies to all Councillors, including the Mayor.

This Policy aims to:

• Allow Councillors to be fairly reimbursed for expenses to help them complete their official duties.
• Provide Councillors with suitable facilities to help them perform their roles.
• Ensure the process is transparent and provides accountability.
• Make sure that the support given to Councillors meet community expectations.
• Supports diverse representation.
• Fulfil our legal responsibilities.

The Policy has been developed to reflect Council’s commitment to these principles:

• Proper conduct: Councillors and staff acting lawfully and honestly, being careful and diligent in their duties.
• Reasonable expenses: Councillors to be reimbursed for reasonable expenses as part of their role.
• Participation and access: people from diverse backgrounds, underrepresented groups, caregivers and those with special needs should have the opportunity to serve as Councillors.
• Equity: there must be equitable access to expenses and facilities for all Councillors.
• Appropriate use of resources: providing clear guidelines of what is an appropriate use of Council resources according to legal requirements and community expectations.
• Accountability and transparency: clearly stating and reporting on the expenses and facilities provided to Councillors.

The Policy lists conditions relating to general expenses and facilities for all Councillors.