News

Women encouraged to help shape local government

THE Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) NSW is delivering the ‘Getting Women Elected’ Forum on Saturday, June 1, ahead of Local Government elections in September.

The forum, hosted by Cumberland Council, will be taking place from 9.30am to 12.30pm and will cover a range of topics including campaign strategies, effective communication skills, navigating local government processes and balancing public service with personal commitments.
It aims to encourage more women who are passionate about their community to connect, learn and nurture the skills necessary for successful participation in local government, and promote representation of women as local Councillors.
Cumberland Mayor Lisa Lake said, “gender equality on local council is vitally important to ensure equality in decision-making”.
“Women Councillors often bring a different perspective to priorities for planning and development and capital expenditure,” she said.
“They also ensure that issues of particular relevance to women are not overlooked, such as issues around children and their care, homelessness impacting older women, support for seniors and those with disability and early intervention and support for families impacted by domestic violence.
“We have many women led community organisations in Cumberland who deliver services on a voluntary basis, build community capacity and promote cohesion. These organisations flourish with support from Council often delivered through our women Councillors.
“I encourage women to come forward and help make a difference.”
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experienced mentors and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for civic engagement and community advocacy.
ALGWA NSW is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive political landscape where women are equally represented and empowered to drive positive change within their communities.
For more information or to reserve your spot, RSVP to Council’s Governance Team by 5pm, Friday (May 24) via email: governance@cumberland.nsw.gov.au, phone: 8757 9419 and online: https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/event/algwa-nsw-forum-getting-women-elected