Local Councils
Local Government Victoria
In Victoria there are 79 councils representing around 4.6 million people. Each council varies in size, population, rate base and resources, but all must operate in accordance with the ‘Local Government Act 1989’. Local Government Victoria works in partnership with local councils to build stronger communities and strengthen transparent and accountable democracy. Visit Local Government Victoria.
Guide to Local Government
The Guide to Local Government is a great way for Victorians to learn more about this vital part of our government as well as coming to understand how much their council is doing in their local community every day. The Guide includes information about how councils work, how they make decisions, how they are funded and how councillors are elected. It also includes advice about making complaints. Visit the Guide
Find your local council
Identify your local council area, access lists of councillors, and view metropolitan and rural area maps -- it's all here at Local Government Victoria.
Local Government Inspectorate
The Local Government Investigations and Compliance Inspectorate (Local Government Inspectorate) is responsible for ensuring that Victoria’s local government sector meets the highest standard of accountability and transparency according to the Local Government Act 1989.
Public libraries
The Department of Planning and Community Development administers the Government’s funding for Victoria’s libraries. Access the contact details of local libraries, including links to library websites. Visit Local Government Victoria.
Neighbourhood houses and learning centres
Neighbourhood Houses are not-for-profit community-based organisations, managed by volunteer representatives of the local community. To find out more, visit Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres.
Grants and funding
The Department of Planning and Community Development administers grants based on three features of strong communities: planning, strengthening communities and building community infrastructure. Local councils are eligible for a range of DPCD funding programs. To find out more, visit Grants@DPCD.
Sport and recreation
Sport and Recreation Victoria provides greater participation opportunities for Victorians. This is achieved by improving the quality of community and international sport and recreation facilities, strengthening the capacity of sport and recreation organisations, supporting world-class sporting events and reinforcing the role that sport and recreation plays in building stronger communities. Find out more by visiting Sport and Recreation Victoria.
Heritage
The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) has two agencies responsible for managing Victoria’s rich cultural heritage, including Aboriginal cultural heritage and post-contact (non-Indigenous) heritage. Learn more about the vital role Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and Heritage Victoria play in managing and protecting Victoria’s heritage.
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