About Local Government

There are three levels of government in Australia - federal, state and local.

Local government is primarily concerned with matters of local significance such as:

• local roads
• garbage collection and recycling
• parks and sports fields
• building applications
• libraries
• local environment
• children's, youth and seniors' services

Read more about what Council does

Each local government area (LGA) is governed by a council. There are 152 councils in NSW. The interests of each LGA's residents and community members are represented by popularly elected Councillors, led by a mayor.

Read more about Ku-ring-gai's Mayor and Councillors

How does local government work?

Council powers and responsibilities are detailed in the Local Government Act 1993, a framework administered by the Department of Local Government.

The Act details a set of principles councils must adhere to when carrying out their functions, including:

• how councils should be administered
• how council finances should be organised
• procedures for levying and charging rates
• rules for holding elections
• how council meetings should be conducted.

Other state authorities such as the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources and the Roads and Traffic Authority also influence the operation of local councils.

There are also a number of others acts such as the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, the Roads Act and the Rural Fires Act that confer responsibilities and obligations on councils. These Acts are all accessible from the Australian Legal Information Institute website.

While all local councils have the same basic powers and responsibilities, the structure and services of each Council vary according to local needs.

How is the council elected?

Council elections in NSW are held every four years in September. If you have lived in Ku-ring-gai for over three months or own property in the area you are entitled to vote.

Ku-ring-gai Council comprises ten elected Councillors - two from each of the five wards. The Mayor is elected each year by the Councillors.

Read more about the role of the Mayor and Councillors

Working at Council

Councils employ staff members to carry out Council business. Ku-ring-gai Council has approximately 500 staff, organised under six directorates. The General Manager is responsible for day-to-day operations.

Other staff members employed by councils include librarians, engineers, garbage collectors, childcare workers, gardeners, accountants, information technology operators and road workers.

Local government information for schools

Council runs a school visit program for students from local primary schools. Classes visit Council Chambers to learn about how council works and participate in a mock Council debate.

For more information or to book a visit contact Council on 9424 0000.