The conference, titled ‘The Future of Local Government — Resilience, Resolve and Relationships’, set about challenging some of the more traditional forms and roles of local government in Australia, particularly in terms of women’s participation.
Hosted by Ipswich City Council, a highlight of the conference was the inaugural ‘State of the Nation – Gender Equity’ address, presented by the Hon. Margaret Reynolds, Chair of the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG).
Margaret’s speech chronicled her own extensive involvement in local government and in addressing the status of women in Australian politics and society, celebrating both the accomplishments of the past 20 plus years and recognising the hard work still required to achieve gender equity.
“We know there remain challenges in both areas. Women have reported that some councils have refused to send delegates to this conference, while others limit training opportunities. Debates about maternity and carer leave remain on the agenda,” said Margaret.
“Despite having women in the most senior positions nationally, some attitudes to women in local government are unchanged since I launched a paper on ‘Equal Opportunity in Local Government’ in 1990!
“We need to work together to monitor key reforms and work for change. We must encourage young women to work in local government. Career paths must be developed and we need to support each other to insist that women in local government get a better deal.”
Margaret concluded her speech by saying, “This is not just related to equal opportunity. It is in the best interests of our communities to benefit from the skills that women bring to decision-making and policy implementation.”
The ALGWA also held their elections during the conference, with Queensland representative Ms Kathy Bensted elected as National President.
“I am honoured to be selected by my peers to continue in the role of the previous President, Councillor Darriea Turley,” said Kathy.
“Darriea has paved the way for acknowledgement of the presence women need to have both in elected and employed positions in local government.
“If governments are to be a true reflection of their communities, ensuring equal representation of women and men as elected councillors and Mayors, and in senior management positions, should be paramount,” said Kathy.
ALGWA is a national organisation, with branches in every state and the Northern Territory, which supports, encourages and educates members, both elected representatives and council officers. Membership is also open to allied industries that encourage and support women’s participation in local government.
