Election time: temporary changes to how Council communicates

Beginning today, Monday 5 August 2024, Federation Council is subject to a regulated period and must observe certain restrictions for the 40 days prior to the Saturday 14 September 2024 local government election.

These restrictions mean there will be changes to how Council communicates until after the election.

During this period, Council and its employees are prohibited from using Council resources, property and facilities for any activity that assists the election campaign of any candidate running in the local government elections.

While this may appear to be a pretty limited and specific restriction, what may be considered a so-called electoral matter is – from a legal perspective – a broad classification that covers much of the Council’s regular communications activities.

“Electoral matter” is defined under clause 356A of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, and broadly includes any matter that is intended or likely to affect voting in an election. The name, photograph and likeness of a candidate fall within the definition of “electoral matter”.

Due to these restrictions, from Monday 5 August 2024 until election day, Council will: • Replace the regular “Mayoral Column” in the Urana District Newsletter; • Change the format and layout of our monthly Community Conversations Newsletter; • Reduce the issue of media releases and only quote Council staff, not the Mayor as key spokesperson; • Amend and reduce social media posting as required and as relevant; • Cease any scheduled and decline any new radio and TV interview opportunities coordinated by Council that feature the Mayor as key spokesperson.

Council asks for the community’s patience and understanding during this time and will continue – within the limits of these regulations – to provide our community with up-to-date news and information.