We are committed to making it easy for everyone to participate in our engagements. If you have specific requirements or any questions please contact the Community Engagement Team on 9298 8000 or email HaveYourSay@knox.vic.gov.au.

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Click the language drop-down in the top right corner of this page. It will have a picture of a world globe next to it 🌍.

If you do not speak one of these languages, contact Council through TIS on 131450.

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A text document of this page content is available upon request if your screen reader is not compatible with this webpage.

If you have any other questions, concerns or requests to ensure this engagement is accessible for you, contact us at haveyoursay@knox.vic.gov.au or call 9298 8000.

Have your say on draft Policy updates

We are reviewing parts of the Councillor Expenses and Support Policy to ensure it continues to meet community expectations and legislative requirements under the Local Government Act 2020.

The proposed updates aim to improve equity in access to resources, clarify entitlements, and strengthen accountability and consistency in how support is provided to Councillors. They also address emerging issues and opportunities so the Policy remains fit for purpose, transparent and aligned with contemporary governance and engagement standards.

This Policy was last reviewed in 2023–2024 and adopted by Council in June 2024. Now, we want to hear from you — share your feedback and help shape the way Council supports its elected representatives.

Have your say before engagement closes midnight Thursday 30 November 2025.

Proposed updates to the draft Policy include:

Councillor listening posts would aim to create direct opportunities for residents to connect with Councillors on local and municipal issues. This model would be flexible and include formats such as drop-ins, forums, and ward-based sessions to foster open dialogue and transparency. To support these activities, an annual budget allocation is proposed for reasonable costs such as venue hire, engagement tools, and light catering.

Councillors would retain access to shared printers but gain a capped reimbursement amount for additional printing needs like paper and toner. This change would promote equitable access while encouraging use of centralised, cost-effective printing facilities.

The draft Policy simplifies attendance provisions for Councillor attendance at the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly by requiring Council approval if more than three Councillors (excluding the Mayor) seek to attend. This ensures transparency and equitable access to national advocacy and networking opportunities without relying on individual development budgets.

Councillors would have an annual allocation to access Council-branded clothing from the standard staff range, with items embroidered to identify their role. This promotes consistent branding and professional presentation.

How to have your say

Share your feedback before midnight Thursday 30 November 2025. You can share your thoughts online, in person, in writing or by chatting over the phone.

In person
  • Pop-up session: Monday 24 November, 6pm-7pm

Knox Civic Centre, 511 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South 3152

Email
Phone
  • Make a time for a one-on-one conversation with the Governance team by calling 03 9298 8000.
In writing
  • Mail your submission to: Councillor Expenses and Support Policy consultation, Knox City Council, Reply Paid 70243, Wantirna South 3152
Online
  • Complete the survey below.


Council will review community feedback and present the final Councillor Expenses and Support Policy for adoption by Council in December.

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Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - complete

    Council requested a review of the Policy

    March 2025

  • Timeline item 2 - complete

    Council approval to start community engagement

    13 October 2025

  • Timeline item 3 - active

    Community engagement period

    Wednesday 5 November - Thursday 30 November 2025

  • Timeline item 4 - incomplete

    Council considers adoption of Policy

    Monday 15 December 2025

Engagement Plan

To ensure proposed updates to Councillor entitlements and expenses aligns with community expectations and delivers value for ratepayers.

In finalising updates to the Policy, Council will consider:

  • Feedback received through the draft Policy community engagement.
  • Legislative requirements under the Local Government Act 2020.

Feedback is sought from:

  • Ratepayer residents interested in Council rules and processes.
  • Broader Knox community, including non-ratepayers.

For this project we will be engaging our community at the level of Consult on the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum. This means we will listen to what you say and consider it when we make a decision.

  • Proposed updates to the Policy
  • Budget allocation for Councillor expenses (set by Council)

Entitlements and provisions set out in the Local Government Act 2020:

  • Councillor entitlements for reimbursement of reasonable expenses.
  • Carer provisions within the Policy.

Contact us

Find out more about this engagement.

Contact Information
Name Governance Team
Phone 03 9298 8000
Email governance@knox.vic.gov.au