Why we're consulting

Wodonga Council is seeking community feedback on the Draft Councillor Expenses Policy.

The policy outlines how councillors may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred while performing their duties as elected representatives. These expenses may include travel, accommodation, childcare and other necessary costs associated with fulfilling their role.

Councils are required to maintain a policy that clearly outlines how councillor expenses may be reimbursed. The policy helps ensure transparency, accountability and responsible use of public funds.

The existing policy has been reviewed to ensure it continues to meet legislative requirements and reflects good governance practices. While the policy must comply with legislative requirements and governance standards, community input helps ensure the policy reflects local expectations regarding accountability and responsible use of public resources.

We invite you to review the Draft Councillor Expenses Policy and share your feedback.

The draft policy was tabled at the Council meeting on March 23, 2026. Councillors endorsed that the draft be made available to the community for feedback. After the community engagement period, the policy and any feedback received will be presented to Council to consider adopting. This is likely to occur in May or June 2026.

Councillors perform a range of duties representing the community, including attending council meetings, community events, briefings, conferences and other activities connected with their role.

In some cases, councillors may incur reasonable out-of-pocket expenses while undertaking these duties. The policy outlines which expenses may be reimbursed and the processes that apply.

Examples of eligible expenses may include travel costs, accommodation, childcare or carer expenses where required to perform councillor duties.

The policy also outlines approval processes, reporting requirements and transparency measures to ensure expenses are appropriately managed.

Thank you for participating in this consultation. Remember, if you would like to be kept informed, please click to follow this project.