2020 Victorian local government elections confirmed, following COVID concerns

RESULTS will be declared for some local council elections at least one week late, due to social distancing during vote counting activities.

Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately said the situation was fluid and the VEC might need to adapt to the evolving environment.

"The election program is complex, and all participants are asked to be patient during the various stages of the elections and respectful of all involved," Mr Gately said.

"Short notice changes to processes may be required."

There will be no counter service for replacement ballot packs and unenrolled votes during the 2020 council elections.

The VEC said requests could be made over the phone and replacement packs would be sent by mail.

Voters would still be able to hand deliver completed ballot papers to the election office if they missed the mail collection times, with strict social distancing measures in place.

Further COVID safe measures included increasing distancing in election offices, limiting face-to-face contact, enforcing mask wearing where mandated, and moving operational activity online whenever possible.

"The situation remains dynamic and the VEC continues to actively monitor conditions and restrictions," Mr Gately said.

He said postal voting was safe and of high integrity.

Bendigo residents have until 4pm on August 28 to register to vote.

For more information about registration, click here.

Earlier

COUNCIL elections will proceed in October, Victoria's local government minister has confirmed.

"There are no compelling public health grounds for the elections to be delayed," Shaun Leane, the minister, said.

The confirmation comes on advice from the state's Chief Health Officer, Professor Brett Sutton.

Mr Leane said he also sought advice from the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office.

"The Chief Health Officer has advised that October represents a period when risk is likely to be substantially lower than at present," the minister said.

He said Professor Sutton had also worked closely with the Victorian Electoral Commission and was satisfied that appropriate physical distancing, cleaning and hygiene and workforce planning had all been considered and integrated into its COVIDSafe plans.

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The Victorian Electoral Commission had advised there were no administrative or procedural barriers to the elections proceeding, and Mr Leane said preparations were already well underway.

"This decision was not made lightly and is based on the best public health advice available" he said.

"I am pleased Victorian communities can have their say on their local government representatives at democratic council general elections as planned."

Elections will take place via postal vote on October 24.

More news: Six fewer active COVID-19 cases in Bendigo

Mr Leane said the government had launched a mandatory online training course for candidates.

Guidelines had been established for safe campaigning.

Mr Leane said candidates would also be able to provide a 300-word statement in their ballot packs to voters.

"I wish prospective candidates all the best for the upcoming campaign period, and encourage all Victorians to make their vote count," he said.