The elected Council is made up of twelve councillors and the Lord Mayor. In Newcastle, the Lord Mayor is elected on a 'popular' vote for the entire four-year term of the Council. The next Local Government Election will be held in 2008.

The Newcastle Local Government Area is divided into four wards, with each ward having three councillors.

Under the Local Government Act 1993 councillors have a responsibility to:

• Participate in the determination of the budget
• Play a key role in the creation and review of Council policies, objectives and criteria relating to the regulatory functions of Council
• Review its performance and the delivery of services, management plans and revenue policies.

A councillor represents the interests of the residents and ratepayers, provides leadership and guidance to the community and facilitates communication between the community and the Council.

Do you want to be a local councillor?

The Department of Local Government produces a brochure called "So you want to be a local councillor?" that gives you all the information you need if you are interested in becoming a Councillor. To get copy go to the Department of Local Government's website and search their publications list.