“If it’s good enough for federal and state MPs to go live to the nation, then there is no reason why local councillors should be exempt,” Local Government Minister Gabrielle Upton said.

“The reality is that residents and ratepayers who want to know what is going on at their council can get online and be informed.

“In 12 months it will be mandatory for all councils in NSW to webcast their meetings to ensure everybody can benefit from this initiative.”

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The new Model Code of Meeting Practice is the first uniform set of meeting rules for NSW councils.

“The code includes optional time limits on meetings, a five-minute limit on councillor speeches, uniform rules of debate, and limits on mayoral minutes,” Ms Upton said.

“From now on, meetings will be more transparent, informed, inclusive and respectful.”

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