23 February 2021

Walkley Award-winning journalist set to inspire women in council

One of Australia’s favourite political commentators, Walkley Award-winning journalist Annabel Crabb, will be the guest speaker at an International Women’s Day event designed to inspire women to get more involved in local government.

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Linda Scott said the association would once again host its annual International Women’s Day lunch on March 8 to celebrate the achievements of women in NSW councils and effect grassroots change in their communities.

“Councils should reflect the communities they serve, which is why we are committed to ensuring equal representation of women in local government. Women can provide valuable insight and input and are an essential voice on every council,” Cr Scott said.

“We have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.

“NSW has the lowest percentage of female representation on council – they make up less than a third of councillors. And just one fifth of council general managers and chief executives are women. We need to continue to press for more equitable representation.”

Cr Scott said councils across NSW had supported LGNSW efforts to push for State funding for targeted programs to encourage more women to run as candidates in the upcoming local government elections in September this year.

As a result of advocacy efforts, the NSW Government recently announced $150,000 funding to support workshops and training for women candidates.

“We were pleased when Minister for Local Government Shelly Hancock responded to our call by establishing an Election of Women to Local Government Action Plan,” Cr Scott said.

“This includes free workshops for women considering standing for election, advice and guidance for potential candidates, promotional materials and, from LGNSW, mentoring for new and returning councillors and mayors.”

Cr Scott said LGNSW’s International Women’s Day Lunch was yet another practical way the association was supporting female participation in local government.

“This year’s event features one of Australia's most beloved journalists, Annabel Crabb,” she said.

“Annabel has long been an advocate for women, through her insightful writing and other media work challenging the status quo that is often weighted against the involvement of women in business and leadership.

“Her credentials are well suited to the theme of this year’s luncheon, ‘Choose to Challenge’, a call to challenge incidents of gender bias and inequality and effect positive change.”

More information

Media Enquiries
Scott Maclean: 0448 718 892 

 

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