The Office of Local Government (OLG) continues to add to its suite of governance guidelines and model policies. Each one is informed by best practice approaches used in the local government sector. The guidelines and policies are not mandatory. They can be implemented as is, used to supplement existing governance documents, or adapted to suit particular requirements.
Upcoming consultations
Consultations on future governance topics to develop guidance and policies around will be announced soon. Details will be posted on this page.
Latest policies
The latest polices cover matters as broad as social and traditional media, councillor and staff interaction, councillor expenses and facilities. They are available for councils to download as Word documents.
We will also be issuing a Model Councillor Lobbying Policy.
Latest guides
Free speech in local Government in NSW
Our Guideline on Free speech in local Government in NSW (PDF, 2.9 MB) provides practical guidance on what free speech means in council contexts. It has been adopted under section 23A of the Local Government Act 1993. Councils are required to consider the guidance when exercising their functions.
Guidance for councillors on corruption risks associated with overseas travel
The Independent Commission Against Corruption has issued Guidance for councillors on corruption risks associated with overseas travel (PDF, 204 KB). This guidance has been adopted as a guideline under section 23A of the Local Government Act 1993. This means that councils are required to consider the guidance in the exercise of their functions.