Why is LGMA concerned about Women in Local Government?

It is important that women actively engage in all levels of leadership and decision-making, particularly within government. Diversity in government is important as governments whose composition reflects the diversity of the community have an enhanced understanding of the different needs of the community, which in turn leads to enhanced service provision.

In 2005 women comprised 14% of senior managers and 4% of General Managers in NSW. In 2008 only 5 of the 152 General Managers are women.

What is LGMA doing for Women Employed in Local Government in NSW?

LGMA has developed an Action Plan for Women Employed in Local Government in NSW, and this is in the Library on this page.

We run two Women in Local Government Forums a year. These Forums focus on the issues and challenges facing women working their way up the corporate ladder in Local Government, and the issues of skills shortages that face all councils. The November 2007 Forum attracted some 90 delegates.

Following the launch of the LGMA Action Plan for Women Employed in Local Government in NSW, at the very successful Women in Local Government Forum in November 2007 we shall be showcasing aspects of the Action Plan and the proposals being developed by the Ministers for Local Government, and Women.

Objectives of the Forums include:

• Assisting professional women in Local Government to network and gain support from their colleagues across NSW.

• Highlighting the challenges and opportunities for women aspiring to be leaders and managers, and of skills shortages in NSW Local Government.

• Engaging women in reflecting on their own personal and professional growth and development as learning opportunities for others.

We would like to know more about what women employed in local government in NSW would like us to deliver through our Action Plan and our Women in Local Government Forums that are being held on 26 March and 26 November 2008.