The Local Government Act 1993 provides detailed information on the role of Council, and of Councillors as individuals. Following is a brief outline:
The Council:
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Is an elected body responsible for administration of its area in accordance with the applicable legislation. It must do that in the best interests of the local community, as well as the public in general;
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Directs and controls the Local Government's affairs;
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Performs the Local Government's functions;
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Oversees the allocation of the Local Government's finances and resources; and
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Determines the Local Government's policies
A Councillor:
- Represents the community;
- Provides leadership and guidance to the community and the district;
- Facilitates communication between the community and the Council;
- Participates in Local Government's decision making processes at Council and Committee Meetings; and
- Performs such other functions as are given to a Councillor by the Local Government Act 1993 or any other written law or Policy.
Councillors have agreed to a code of conduct, that is a statement of the standard of behaviour that Councillors should be demonstrated and which the community can expect to be demonstrated, when they are carrying out their roles and functions.