Are you one of those people who are guilty of criticising local councils? Or one of the many residents in our region who are passionate about what happens in your local community?

Either way, very soon it will be time to "walk the walk" not just "talk the talk".

With the 2024 New South Wales local elections scheduled to be held on September 14 this year, some local shire councils are already urging residents to consider nominating when the time comes.

There are 126 local government areas (LGAs) in New South Wales, and the last elections were held in 2021.

"Take the opportunity to have an impact on your community by standing to become a councilor," Warrumbungle Shire Council urges. "Residents should start thinking now about their involvement in the process."

The Warrumbungle Shire is just one of several local shires looking for community minded people to come on board.

"Being a councilor is an important role and a great opportunity to make a difference. Councils are responsible for making significant decisions that have a far-reaching impact on their community," Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor Ambrose Doolan said.

“Becoming a councilor is a great opportunity to get involved in the local community. If you have been thinking about becoming a councilor, now is the time to put your hand up to represent your local community.”

“Communities get the best outcomes from Council when their diverse nature is represented to give a range of perspectives and experience."

Another local government heavyweight encouraging residents to consider entering local politics is Narromine Shire Mayor, Craig Davies. But his advice comes with a caveat.

"I'd encourage people to get onto Council, but for the right reasons," he said. "We don't want people coming on with single agendas. To put it simply, we don't need people who come on with a single aim like getting the town roses trimmed to six inches not nine and a half."

Mr Davies said he was aware of some local interest in nominations for Narromine Shire council even this far out from the election.

"At the last election in Narromine, we didn't even need one as we only had enough nominees for the places we had," he said. "I encourage people to get involved, but you definitely don't want the wrong people on council. Unfortunately, some people are bad for local government and the reputation of local government."

Nominations to stand in the local government elections will be received by the NSW Electoral Commission in August 2024.

"Before then, the Office of Local Government and Electoral Commission websites will contain an array of information for candidates and the Electoral Commission will also host webinars for interested parties to gain further knowledge about being a councilor,” Mr Doolan said.