You have been chosen by the people of your municipality, because they believe you will give them the best voice. 

You are there to advocate and lead on their behalf and you now hold the power to make decisions that will impact on their lives.

It is indeed an exciting and perhaps overwhelming time for you. 

But with that comes responsibility.

You are now expected to have an understanding of what is expected of a councillor, and good governance. 

You are required to be honest, ethical, reliable, approachable and knowledgeable.

The Municipal Association of Victoria says good governance exists when a government governs for, and on behalf of, its community.

This exists when the government is participatory, consensus oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective, efficient, equitable, inclusive and law abiding.

We have seen what happens – locally and across the state – when some of these principles are not followed.

We expect you to bring your views, and those of the residents of the municipality, to the table.

But we also expect you to have considered, respectful debate when a range of views are put forward.

Your job is not to persuade others to share your views, although there may be times when strong leadership is required. Your role is to listen, learn, understand. To connect and engage. Only then can you make sensible decisions about what is in the best interest of our city without prejudice.

You must decide early in your term how you will resolve disputes and then stand united.

As a councillor, your ambition should be to see our region grow and prosper; to build a stronger community.

For the south-west to move forward, we require councillors who respect each other and feel safe and comfortable to put forward different views. 

We need you to focus on making thoughtful decisions and not get distracted by personalities.

You have been trusted to set the strategic direction and policies for our region. 

Your community will hold you accountable if you don't do this – and so too, will this newspaper.