The former mayor of Ballarat, who nominated herself for the Central Ward encompassing the central urban area of Ballarat, said it was important to show she was serious about her commitment by nominating early.

"We've had plenty of time to make a decision and now I'm keen to start the very active work on the ground," she said.

Ms Verlin said it was a critical time for Ballarat and new councillors would need to hit the ground running.

She urged the community to take the time to see what each candidate stood for.

"People are looking for a change, but also looking for experience," she said.

"The people standing need to have the skills to operate in a very big business."

Each weekday during the nomination period at 6pm the VEC will publish a list of candidates on its website, as well as twice on Tuesday October 28 after nominations close at midday.

On Tuesday afternoon each council's returning officer will conduct a ballot draw to determine the order candidates' names appear on the ballot paper.

Last night Jon Stanger, Gary Fitzgerald, Herman Ruyg and Andrew Faull also nominated in the Central Ward.

In the South Ward Cheryl Bromfield and Peter Innes have put their hands up but, as yet, no one has nominated for the North Ward. Nominations close on Tuesday.

People interesting in nominating should contact the Ballarat City Council returning officer Ray Martin on 5331 1182 or visit the electoral office at 17 Armstrong St Sth.