Nominations are now open for the Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, striving to recognise and celebrate the significant contribution that women make to councils throughout New South Wales.
The awards are in their 16th year with recipients to be announced at a ceremony at Parliament House on Wednesday October 4 2023, co-hosted by Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoeing, and Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison.
The awards categories include the following:
- Alternative Pathways Award – a female staff member who is breaking down gender stereotypes
- Champion of Change Award – a general manager or senior manager (male or female) who has excelled in supporting and encouraging women’s participation at their council
- Elected Representative Award – a councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives
- Young Achievers Award – an outstanding trainee/apprentice (aged 25 and under)
- Employment Diversity Award – a successful council program to increase female participation in senior leadership roles or at the elected representative level
- Woman of Distinction Award – a woman who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, integrity and initiative, or who has a positive influence on others
- Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award – nominations not required, winner will be determined by the minister to recognise and honour the dedication and tireless work of a female council staff member
New South Wales State Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoeing, explained the importance of recognising women in government roles.
“It’s important that we recognise and celebrate the accomplishments of women in the sector and hopefully these awards will inspire more women to consider nominating when the local government elections are held next year,” Mr Hoeing said.
“The number of women elected to councils rose from 31% to 39% at the last local government elections and I’d like that percentage to continue to grow, along with an increase in the number of women in leadership roles in councils.”
New South Wales Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, hopes that the award will encourage communities to recognise women making a difference.
“Having come from local government myself, I know that there are women across NSW making a difference in local government every day as elected representatives and council staff,” Ms Harrison said.
“I encourage everyone in the local government sector to consider nominating a talented female colleague or elected representative for the Women in Local Government Awards.”
Nominations for the 2023 Ministers’ Women in Local Government Awards NSW close on 17 August.
