Home » Conference on the Peninsula

Conference on the Peninsula

The Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) may have been created more than 70 years ago, but its goal of encouraging female participation in local government continues to be relevant and essential today.

Which is why the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, together with the Victorian ALGWA branch, are proudly hosting ALGWA’s 2023 National Conference from 17-20 May at the stunning RACV Cape Schanck Resort.

A forerunner in female representation on council, Mornington Peninsula Shire has six female councillors out of its 11 positions on council.

The aim for the conference is to “bring together councillors and officers from across Australia to put a spotlight on issues facing women in the sector”, said Mayor Cr Steve Holland.

“We have already secured several inspirational and thought-provoking speakers for the event, including the Hon. Julie Bishop as our keynote speaker. As one of Australia’s most recognised and respected politicians, we are sure she will be a highlight of the event.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Debra Mar recognises the peer support and benefits offered by ALGWA.

“This is a really fantastic opportunity for women working in local government to come together, learn from the experiences of our broad range of speakers and panellist, participate in meaningful and career-focussed workshops – and to network and enjoy the beautiful Mornington Peninsula,” said Deputy Mayor Mar.

Other speakers and panellists announced by the shire include cross-cultural consultant Tasneem Chopra, demographer Simon Kuestenmacher, motivational speaker and author Gill Hicks, leadership coach Maree McPherson OAM, Kristy McBain MP and TV and radio commentator and former Australian cricketer Mel Jones.

Over the four days, guests will be treated to a range of additional functions and opportunities to connect with peers, including a welcome function at the resort, a networking dinner at a locals’ favourite The Epicurean Red Hill and a gala dinner on the final night.

There will also be time to savour some of the Peninsula’s finest attractions on Friday afternoon, making sure guests experience a taste of the Mornington Peninsula.

“On behalf of my fellow councillors, we are very much looking forward to welcoming delegates to the Mornington Peninsula to connect, inspire and thrive,” said Deputy Mayor Mar.

Digital Editions


  • A creative future for Kingston

    A creative future for Kingston

    The community has been invited to help shape Kingston’s creative and cultural future. Kingston residents are being invited to help finalise the city’s cultural roadmap,…

More News

  • Council take on much-loved garden

    Council take on much-loved garden

    Glenorchy City Council will take on the administration of the Chigwell Community Garden, securing the future of the much-loved community space and supporting continued shared use by local groups. Glenorchy…

  • Fuel prices hurt country LGAs

    Fuel prices hurt country LGAs

    The fuel crisis is hitting remote, rural and regional communities hard, with farmers, freight carriers, tourism operators and local government all expressing concerns about the lack of supply and the…

  • Navigating grants

    Navigating grants

    How Administrative Complexity Is Eroding One of Local Government’s Most Powerful Tools Local government grants exist to create impact in communities. Yet across the sector, that purpose is increasingly being…

  • Looking to the future

    Looking to the future

    Flinders Lane will be abuzz for two days this month with Townsville Youth Council – supported by Townsville City Council – set to deliver a free festival focused on the…

  • WA leads the way as people to the regions

    WA leads the way as people to the regions

    Ten million people now call regional Australia home, and Western Australia is leading the way with its regional population growing faster than the cities, according to a deep dive into…

  • Sewer grant sought

    Sewer grant sought

    Fraser Coast Regional Council will seek Queensland Government funding for two major water and sewerage projects with capacity to support more than 11,000 new homes across the region. At its…

  • Mayors call for waste levy

    Mayors call for waste levy

    Mayors across NSW have called for waste levy to soften the blow of fuel price increases. More than 60 Councils from across NSW have issued a call for the NSW…

  • Lismore four years on

    Lismore four years on

    Four years on: How Lismore is building back and setting a national benchmark. When the 2022 flood inundated Lismore, it was not simply another extreme weather event. It became Australia’s…

  • A golden celebration

    A golden celebration

    Cockburn Libraries will mark a major milestone in 2026 – 50 years of serving, supporting and connecting the community. Spearwood Library opened its doors on 23 March 1976 as one…

  • Local Governments vital for fuel supply

    Local Governments vital for fuel supply

    Fuel supply constraints and rising costs are putting councils and communities under increasing pressure across Australia, with implications for essential services and community infrastructure. The Australian Local Government Association is…