Nominations for South West ward by-election to open for Northern Grampians Shire Council 2020 elections

The South West ward by-election nominations will open on Thursday, October 22, and close at 12pm Wednesday October 28.

Electoral commissioner Warwick Gately encouraged anyone interested in representing their local community to nominate and reminded prospective candidates to check their eligibility before nominating.

"The eligibility requirements for candidates have changed," he said.

"If you are thinking about standing for election, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training before lodging your nomination.

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"This includes candidates who are currently or have previously been a councillor."

Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to attend the online candidate information session.

The candidate session will be held online via Cisco Webex at: 7pm on Tuesday October 20.

A link will be available at vec.vic.gov.au before 6.30 pm on Tuesday 20 October.

Candidates must make an appointment with the Election Manager during business hours in order to lodge their nomination form and pay their $250 nomination fee.

They must have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will need to be confirmed on each candidate's nomination form.

Candidates may make a nomination appointment with the Election Manager by calling 1300 128 940.

Candidates can also pre-fill their nomination and other candidate forms using the online Candidate Helper at candidatehelper.vec.vic.gov.au, available from 15 October.

Late nominations cannot be accepted.More information on nominating as a candidate is available at vec.vic.gov.au, and Candidate Information Kits can be downloaded from the VEC website or requested from the Election Manager.

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