OPINION PIECE: Female representation in councils
December 17, 2015
OPINION PIECE
Sandy Zubrinich
Chair, Sunshine Coast Business Council
Women represent over half of the Sunshine Coast’s working population and yet less than 20 per cent of local councillors are female, and the Sunshine Coast has only had one female mayor in its long history.
This is in stark contrast to state level politics where we see women representing just over half of Queensland’s ministry positions. This is unprecedented in Australian state politics and a positive change as we look to achieve gender equality across all facets of society.
Over the past four years the Sunshine Cost region has only elected two female councillors, namely Cr Jenny Mackay in Division 5 of the Sunshine Coast Council and Cr Sandy Bolton in Noosa Council.
This is not only disappointing but also out of step with what is happening in other Queensland regions where we see a far better representation of female councillors. For example, on the Gold Coast female councillors make up over 46 per cent of the council including the position of Deputy Mayor. Logan sits at 38 per cent and Townsville 36 per cent – both of which have a female mayor. Brisbane City Council has female representation of around 37 per cent per cent and Ipswich sits at 27 per cent.
Why is it then that at a time when there is so much focus on gender equality in the private and public sectors —with quotas even applying in some cases —there have been so few women willing to make the move to local government in this region? It begs the questions:
- Why aren’t our talented women prepared to enter local government?
- Are we exhibiting unconscious bias against women when we vote?
Regardless, we need to do something about achieving more gender balance in Sunshine Coast local councils particularly when research highlights that gender diversity is good business practice and good for business performance.
So how do we encourage more women to put themselves forward for local government? Should we, as the community, all do more to support and encourage experienced women to take up the challenge? Should our sitting mayors and councillors seek out talented and committed women to mentor during their term to encourage them to consider running for local council?
This week Cr Sandy Bolton announced she will be running for mayor in Noosa at the March council elections. I have had the opportunity to work with Cr Bolton briefly during the recent Sunshine Coast Business Council think-tank sessions. Her participation was noted for her balanced views and her understanding of the importance of strong regional partnerships and relationships, particularly between councils if we are to achieve the best possible outcomes for this region. I hope Cr Bolton maintains this thinking should she be elected as we desperately need leaders who are both willing and capable of acting locally and regionally.
In March 2016 we have another opportunity to get the right local government leadership and balance in place to drive our region forward: economically, environmentally and socially. It is an opportunity that should not be wasted and I call on residents to consider their options carefully before going to the voting booth.
We need political, business and community leaders with vision and commitment, who can expertly engage with the community; who are prepared to reach out and build relationships; and who work together for the long-term prosperity of the region.
Let’s hope we see more of the inspirational women in our community step up to the challenge.
// Ends.
Media contact
Maya Gurry, Fresh PR & Marketing
0410 109 102
maya@freshprm.com.au
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