Characteristics of good governance

a) Accountable:

• Accountability is a fundamental requirement of good governance.

b) Transparent:

• Able to follow and understand the decision-making process.

c) Follows the rule of law:

• Decisions are consistent with relevant legislation or common law and are within the powers of council.

d) Responsive:

• Local government should always try to serve the needs of the entire community while balancing competing interests in a timely, appropriate and responsive manner.

e) Equitable and Inclusive:

• A community’s wellbeing results from all of its members feeling their interests have been considered by council in the decision-making process.

f) Is effective and efficient:

• Local government should implement decisions and follow processes that make the best use of the available people, resources and time to ensure the best possible results for their community.

g) Is participatory:

• Anyone affected by or interested in a decision should have the opportunity to participate in the process for making that decision.