The Department of Communities and Justice has launched a new promotional campaign to encourage more women to stand for their community at the next Local Government elections.
Launched by the Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock and Minister for Women, Bronnie Taylor, the campaign is spearheaded by 10 former and current female councillors.
“Currently, women represent just 31 per cent of all NSW councillors, which in 2020 is just not good enough,” Mrs Hancock said.
“While we have made steps towards equality in other parts of society, the gender gap in local government is real and we can do better,” she said.
“To inspire a new generation of leaders, we’ve called on 10 prominent women to share their passion for local government and encourage more women to make a difference to their community and run for Council at the 4 September 2021 elections.”
“We’ve also secured $100,000 for a series of workshops and programs for potential female candidates.”
Mrs Hancock said the video campaign featured Lucy Turnbull, Clover Moore, Linda Scott, Marianne Saliba, Katrina Humphries and Kristy McBain who speak about the positive experiences they’ve had and their achievements in local government.
Mrs Taylor said strong, effective Councils were those that reflected the diverse communities they served and represented.
“Which is why we must do all we can to increase female representation,” Mrs Taylor said.
“You don’t need any formal qualifications to stand for election – all you need is a strong will and a desire to make a difference in your local community,” she said.
Further information about the Election of Women to Local Government campaign, including campaign videos, can be accessed on the Office of Local Government’s website at this PS News link.
