Did you know that your local government Councillor is a volunteer?

5 August 2008 | Lynne Dalton, The Centre for Volunteering

Many people think that Councillors are like State and Federal Members of Parliament and that they get paid for the work that they do. Actually most Councillors merely receive an allowance to help cover some of the costs that are involved with having to have a phone, write to constituents, or make visits to community groups and events.

Having been a Councillor for nearly 8 years I know it cost me a lot of time and money just for the privilege of representing my community.

The four yearly Local Government Elections will be held on Saturday, 13 September 2008 and this is your opportunity to vote for one of those people volunteering their time and resources to represent you.

As a service the NSW Electoral Commission has introduced a newsletter to assist people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds understand how the system works.

Remember, to be eligible to vote, you must be correctly enrolled. If you've changed address you'll need to update your enrolment. Or if you've turned 18 or become an Australian citizen, you'll need to enrol to vote for the first time. Remember, voting is compulsory and all enrolment forms must be received by 6pm, Monday, 4 August 2008.
To check your enrolment or for an enrolment form visit www.elections.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 135 736. Enrolment forms are also available from any Australia Post office.