12Sections 28AB and 28AC inserted

12 Sections 28AB and 28AC inserted

After section 28AA of the Principal Act , the following sections are inserted in Division 3:

28AB.   Mandatory core learning and development activities for councillors

(1)  In this section –

immediately preceding term of office, in relation to a councillor, means the last term of office held by the councillor that ended before the commencement of the councillor’s current term of office.

(2)  The Director may approve one or more courses of mandatory core learning and development activities for councillors.

(3)  Without limiting subsection (2), the Director may approve different courses, or different requirements, for –

(a) councillors who have not served as a councillor in the immediately preceding term of office; and

(b) councillors who have served as a councillor in the immediately preceding term of office.

(4)  A course approved under this section is to consist of learning and development activities relating to the roles and responsibilities of councils and councillors.

(5)  The Director is to, within 28 days of approving a course under subsection (2) –

(a) ensure that notice of the approval is issued to each council; and

(b) cause a copy of the course of mandatory core learning and development activities to be published on a website maintained by or on behalf of the Department.

(6)  The regulations may prescribe requirements for the learning and development activities required under this section.

(7)  A councillor must, within 12 months after the councillor’s election, complete any course of mandatory core learning and development activities applicable to the councillor under this section.

(8)  The Director may extend the period referred to in subsection (7) if satisfied that it would be appropriate in the circumstances.