In the spirit of reconciliation, The Australian Local Government Women’s Association WA Branch acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land. We acknowledge and respects their unique ability to care for Country, and their deep spiritual connection to it. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging.
What a busy few months! In June we saw a strong delegation of women from WA Local Governments attending the National General Assembly in Canberra. It was great to catch up with the National Australian Local Government Women’s Association committee and network with other women from Councils all across Australia. The team are working hard to progress women in Local Government, advocating for a national mentoring program for women in Local Government and addressing gender equity issues.
In July, we officially launched our MentorNet program at the City of Perth and were joined by Hon. David Scaiffe MP on behalf of Minister John Carey, Director General of Local Government Lanie Chopping and her Deputy Erin, Tim Fraser and Johnathon and Pia from LGIS. It was great to catch up in person and network whilst launching this important program that will help participants broaden leadership skills and knowledge. We have 14 participants currently enrolled in MentorNet which runs over the next 12 months and look forward to following their journey.
We are about to start advocacy on mandatory Superannuation for elected members, starting with a join Equal Pay Day event on Friday 16th September at City of Canning. Superannuation is a known barrier for women nominating for Local Government, one that we hope to remove in the coming months. We hope you can join us at this event.
Also coming up in October is our annual networking breakfast at the WALGA Local Government Convention, reflecting the theme of ‘Embracing Change’. We have amazing speakers lined up and can’t wait to see everyone in person.
Just a quick reminder that WAWA Membership for 2022/23 are now due. Joining as a member of WAWAs strengthens our position and helps us to advocate on behalf of women in Local Government. Its only $50 per year and some LGAs will cover this, please speak to your CEO to check if yours can be covered.
Cr Chontelle Stone ALGWA WA President
