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Women in council

Fifty-one per cent of Victoria’s six million people are women, yet women are under-represented across local government – in both elected councillor and senior manager roles.

Research has shown that when women stand for council they are just as likely as men to be elected; however, they often don't stand for election.

Greater participation of women in local government as councillors and senior managers is encouraged to better reflect the views and needs of the Victorian communities they represent.

Support to increase the number of women participating in local government is being progressed by councils individually and collectively through their peak body, the MAV by:

  • Endorsing the Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter principles which are gender equity, diversity and active citizenship
  • Promoting the activities of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association
  • Promoting gender equity within local government to assist in the prevention of violence against women
  • Ensuring that events and training encourage people to stand for council election, and are welcoming and accessible to female participants
  • Encouraging councils to consider initiatives which will increase the participation of women at political and community levels.

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