Local government policy

Councils operate under a wide array of legislation. These Acts both empower and set out some expectations of councils.

The Department of Internal Affairs administers three of the key Acts under which councils operate. These are -

• Local Electoral Act 2001 sets out the processes for the conduct of council elections.
• Local Government Act 2002 sets out the general powers of councils, the community outcomes process, and planning and accountability requirements.
• Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 sets out the powers councils have to raise revenue by way of different rating tools.

Councils also operate under other local government legislation, which sets out specific responsibilities for functions and activities to be delivered locally.

For a look at the latest in local government policy development activities, visit the Local Government Policy page on the Department of Internal Affairs website.