Overview
For more than 15 years the VLGA has been demonstrating leadership around the issues affecting women councillors and their participation in local governments. In 1999, VLGA became an active member of the Women’s Participation in Local Government Coalition (WPILGC) and has undertaken the Secretariat role for this Coalition since 2000. The VLGA also hosts the
WPILGC webpage.
In 2005, the VLGA appointed what was possibly the first peak local government Women’s Policy Officer. On 2nd November 2006, the VLGA Board approved the creation of a Working Group to support the Board in developing policies and actions relating to women in Local Government.
The VLGA is a major signatory to the
Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter which has three principles: gender equity, diversity and active citizenship.
Strategic Plan
The VLGA’s Women’s Policy activities support strategies towards strengthening local governments, in particular those of showing leadership and supporting good governance. Women's Policy is also ingrained in strategies to connect communities and local governments.
VLGA Approach
The VLGA is a key signatory to the
Victorian Local Government Women's Charter.
In 2001, a Centenary of Federation Project created the
Victorian Womens Petition which is a vision for the 21st century. Through its
Women’s Policy Working Group and the position of the Women’s Policy Officer, the VLGA seeks to respond to members' interests and take a proactive role in supporting women’s representation in local governments and communities.
Current Activity
Current VLGA activities in Women's Policy include activities to increase the local civic and political participation of women and their diversity; supporting local governments' roles in preventing violence against women; responding to concerns and issues raised by members; and providing the Secretariat for the
Women’s Participation in Local Government Coalition (WPILGC).
Contact
Women’s Policy Officer
Linda Bennett
T: +61 3 9349 7904
E:
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