Regional collaboration provides benefits through collective procurement increased advocacy and alignment for major projects.

While on some matters that are worked on in partnership it’s possible for the participating Councils to make their own decisions and determinations in some circumstances it may be beneficial to hold Joint Council Meetings as are provided for in the Act.

1. Council may resolve to participate in a Joint Council meeting to consider:

1.1	Collaborative projects;
1.2	Collaborative procurement; and/or
1.3	Emergency Response.

2. If Council has resolved to participate in a Joint Council meeting the Chief Executive Officer will agree on the applicable governance rules for the meeting with the participating Councils before the meeting starts.
3. Where the Greater Geelong City Council is the lead Council on a matter to be brought for consideration at a Joint Council meeting the Mayor will be nominated to Chair the Joint Council meeting
4. At a majority of Councillors will be appointed to represent Council at a Joint Council meeting Consistent information will be provided to Councillors prior to any Joint Meeting and every endeavour will be made by the Chief Executive Officer to facilitate a joint briefing.
5. A joint briefing arranged in accordance with this Rule may be held electronically.