Councillors will now be able to claim child care or family expenses incurred while performing councillors' duties, as part of a new support package.

They will also be able to claim reimbursements for travel and other out-of-pocket expenses and include the supply of computers and mobile phones.

This had been up to the discretion of individual councils.

Chief executive officer Kaylene Conrick said the more clearly defined resources and support for councillors were, the better.

"Councillors need the right `tools' to do the job well and it is only fair and reasonable that they are appropriately compensated for out-of-pocket expenses when performing their civic duties," she said.

"The new guidelines aim to support councillors and encourage candidates to step forward for the upcoming elections.

"For instance, traditionally people with young families have been reluctant to stand for council, concerned about the family expenses, such as child care."

The Councillor Expenses and Resources Guidelines has replaced the shire's existing Councillor Expenses Protocol.