An updated media policy will give ward councillors a greater voice on issues impacting Baw Baw Shire.

Councillors unanimously endorsed the updated policy at its recent meeting despite one resident objecting in a submission.
Roy Lindsay said the only significant update to the policy appeared to be who could act as a spokesperson.
"I would prefer to see the existing spokesperson rule remain," Mr Lindsay said. "I just feel this is just another attempt by the state government to dumb down councils and take back all the responsibilities to the organisation rather than to councillors and the mayor."
An officer report said the purpose of council's media policy was to ensure all media releases, statements and enquiries relating to council were "managed professionally, appropriately and in a way that benefits council's reputation."
"The policy provides a framework to promote timely, positive, consistent and accurate coverage of council through all media," the report said. "It also determines relevant spokespeople and sets expectations around responsiveness."
It includes a paragraph that council spokespeople should undertake media training or a refresher at the beginning of each council term. The mayor and deputy mayor are encouraged to undertake annual media training.
Cr Suzanne Allen said people wanted to be informed "about all things council" and having a media policy that evolves with community needs would help this happen.
"This policy is essential for maintaining and building strong relationships with both the media and our community," she said.
Cr Allen said she had recently undertaken media training to "represent Baw Baw Shire confidently and effectively", labelling it "extremely helpful."
Cr Paul Pratt said he expected this wouldn't be the last update to the policy.
Cr Pratt said the update intended to give ward councillors opportunity to be quoted in media releases. Previously, only the mayor or deputy mayor could be called on for comment, he explained.
"I expect this councillor group will continue to look at the best way we engage and communicate with the public as it is an important part of the role to be open and transparent with our community who elected us," he said.