Communications Allowance 

Councils can provide an annual allowance to elected members using their own devices to communicate with local authorities or ratepayers.

Whilst the Authority has a strong preference for direct provision of equipment, the decision on whether elected members can use personal devices and the nature of the technology required will be a local decision.

Councils should provide equipment

Councils are responsible for deciding the equipment elected members need to carry out business effectively and efficiently.

The Authority believes Councils should provide each elected official with a:

  • phone (mobile or landline)
  • computer, tablet and/or a laptop
  • scanner, and
  • printer

Equipment should remain the property of the council and be replaced or updated at least every 3 years.

The council should also cover the costs of any consumables required.

Allowance for member-owned equipment 

The total allowance to a member for the use of their own equipment and services must not exceed $1190 per year.

Elected members may claim:

  • $200 for the use of a personal computer, tablet or a laptop, including any related docking station,
  • $40 for the use of a multi-functional or other printer,
  • $150 for the use of a mobile telephone
  • $400 for the use a home internet or broadband connection, and
  • up to $400 for the use of a personal telephone plan.

In approving allowances in expenses documents, the Authority will seek confirmation of a formal decision by the council around the use of technology.

Landlines and mobile phones

Where the council provides a mobile phone plan, the portion of the cost to be paid by the member to cover personal use will be agreed with the council. The Authority recommends that councils look at current practice in central government for models and we can supply examples if requested.

Where regular landline or mobile coverage is not available councils may put a costed recommendation to the Authority for approval to install appropriate technology. The council may apply for reimbursement or an allowance for on-going maintenance and support reflecting the costs involved. It is anticipated this allowance will normally reflect no more than 75% of the costs involved.

Home internet or broadband services

The Authority assumes councils will not provide plans for home internet or broadband services as household use is growing significantly, and it is unlikely official use by the elected member will be a high proportion of the cost.

Councils should contact the authority if it wishes to supply the entire plan to an elected member.