What type of expenses can councillors claim under their expenses policy?

Councillors can claim reasonable costs incurred by their position as part of their expenses policy. This typically includes expenses that are directly related to their duties and responsibilities, such as travel costs for attending council meetings, office supplies, and other necessary expenditures that enable them to fulfill their roles effectively. The expenses must be justifiable and proportionate to their work as public officials.

In contrast, general living expenses do not usually qualify because they are personal costs, not tied to the councillor's official duties. Public relations expenses may also be narrowly defined and could depend on specific circumstances or guidelines set forth by the council; they are not universally accepted as claimable. Campaigning costs are typically not covered under councillor expenses during their term in office, as they relate specifically to election activities rather than the responsibilities of serving as a public official.