Wins Award for Women in Local Government

Fourteen years on, the now Team Leader for the council’s Diversity and Inclusion unit, has taken out a top honour at the 2023 Minister’s Awards for Women in Local Government.
Renee was awarded the ‘Woman of Distinction Award – Metro’ for her outstanding achievements in fostering an accessible and inclusive City.
“I’m absolutely honoured to be recognised for my efforts in working with our community. I’m surrounded by such passionate people who drive and motivate each other every day to bring joy, support and empowerment to our community,” she said.
“I look forward to continuing to work towards a more diverse and inclusive community where everyone has a sense of belonging and feels included.”
Appointed Team Leader of the Diversity and Inclusion team in 2019, she has been instrumental in a number of community initiatives, including establishing the council’s annual Say NO to DV Tug O’ War Cup, planning CBCity’s 2023 Domestic Violence Summit, developing a First Nations Cultural Hub and Resource Centre, Reconciliation Action Plan and initiating a Social Justice Charter.
A career highlight for Renee was presenting the Canterbury Bankstown Disability Abuse Prevention Collaborative as a best practice example for other councils to a Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability in 2022.
She was also congratulated by the council CEO Matthew Stewart who commended her efforts to empower the community.
“Renee has always gone above and beyond to improve the lives of community members,” Mr Stewart said.
“She is a shining example to all women and young people looking to start a career in community service.”