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Councillor Expenses
The Councillors Expenses & Facilities Policy supports requirements of the Local Government Act 1989, with specific reference to sections 74 and 75 and provides an overview of how the Council provides assistance and support to the Mayor and Councillors in carrying out their civic duties as Councillors.
Council has determined that a summary of Councillor expenses be released at the end of each Financial year and at the anniversary of election day and be accessible on our web site. The following is a general guide to various inclusions within the table of expenses.
Functions Attendance
This category covers attendance by Councillors at functions for which an attendance charge applies. For example:
- Community and Business lunches
- Breakfasts
- Hospitality
- Associated child care
- One-off information sessions.
These are normally held by community organisations, local government related organisations, professional bodies and institutions, or private sector providers on areas and events which impact on the role of Councillors and the City in general.
Vehicle Travel
Costs incurred in the use of a Councillor's private vehicle to attend meetings, functions and other commitments within and outside the municipality are reimbursed in accordance with the Policy. Travel claims are reimbursed at the rates prescribed in the Local Authorities Victoria Award 2001.
Cabcharge
This category covers costs for use taxi services incurred in attending meetings, functions and other commitments within and outside the municipality. Councillors are issued with cabcharge cards enabling use of taxis within Victoria or interstate.
Corporate Costs
There are a variety of ad-hoc costs associated with the role of Councillors or their Portfolios. Such items include:
- Organisation membership
- Newspapers and publications
- Petty cash
- Stationery
- Office items.
Communication
We provide a range of communication levels to ensure Councillors are accessible and are able to communicate while conducting Council business.
This category comprises costs associated with use of:
- Mobile phones
- Home phones
- Facsimile machines
- Data services for internet access.
Rapidly changing technology has delivered a range of services to meet the different needs of Councillors. Consequently the type of services used may vary from one councillor to another.
Training and Development
Councillors are encouraged to participate in training courses, seminars, conferences and meetings which impact on their Portfolio or Councillor responsibilities. Many of these are conducted by Government bodies (Federal, State or Local), education or professional institutions.
Travel and Accommodation
Costs reported are associated with Councillors travelling interstate, overseas or outside the Geelong region on Council business as approved in accordance with Councillor Expenses & Facilities Policy.
This includes:
- Airfares
- Accommodation
- Visas
- Passport costs
- Car hire
- Meals and hospitality
- Ancillary expenses.
Conference registration fees are generally covered under Training and Development.
Table of Expenses
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Documentation
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