Women step up for 2024 council polls

The Women Leading Locally program, a two-year Victorian Government-funded effort, targeted the 32 local government areas (LGAs) with the greatest gender imbalance.

More than 120 women from a variety of backgrounds have graduated from the free intensive program run by the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA), following a ceremony on August 10.

Each was provided with the skills, knowledge and confidence to take the plunge at the October polls.

Among the graduates who have chosen to run is Emilie Flynn, who only dabbled with the idea of taking a political tilt “down the line” until the course gave her the confidence to run, with its focus on fine-tuning potential candidates’ existing capabilities.

The ex-schoolteacher turned project manager soon realised she might have what it takes.

“Teaching prepares you for everything,” she said.

She’s now turned a passion for climate action and an interest in queer politics into political action and will run as a candidate in the City of Greater Geelong elections.

Another graduate to join the fray will be Divya Pasupuleti in the City of Casey in Melbourne’s southeast. Ms Pasupuleti already had corporate experience and a strong interest in social justice, community and gender equality dating back more than 20 years, but the course made her see that “real change happens by getting involved in government”.

The program built her confidence to cope with public scrutiny and cultural expectations. “This is what I want to do,” she said.

Youth advocate Emily Greco will run in the Hume region, which has just three women on its 11-member council.

“The program has been gearing us up to do that, and it has given me the confidence and skills to do it,” said Ms Greco.

“I don’t feel that my council currently reflects me or my local community, and I think we can do a lot better.”

While Victoria had the highest percentage of women councillors in Australia coming out of the 2020 elections, the Victorian Government aims to increase gender equality in 2024.

The program was delivered by the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA) and Women for Election and targeted a diverse array of women with a focus on youth, First Nations, women with a disability, diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and those who identify as LGBTIQ+.

The workshops for the Women Leading Locally fellowships covered campaigning, leadership, and governance.

ICDA general manager Adele Stowe-Lindner said the long-term impact of the Women Leading Locally program would be enormous.

“This program will literally change the face of local government,” she said.