The Victorian Government has put up funds to support gender equality in local government.

Minister for Local Government Adem Somyurek has announced a $50,000 grant to support the Victorian Local Governance Association’s (VLGA) Local Women Leading Change campaign.

He also announced that the Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams will chair the Local Government Ministerial Women’s Roundtable.

Local Women Leading Change will support potential female candidates, including those from Aboriginal and culturally diverse backgrounds, in the lead up to the 2020 local government elections.

In addition, funding of $5,000 will be provided for the HART Awards, which recognise initiatives by local governments and community organisations that are advancing reconciliation in Victoria. Reconciliation Victoria and the VLGA work in partnership to present these awards.

Also, over $150,000 has also been delivered through Local Government Victoria’s Listen, Learn and Lead Program, which is helping councils implement strategies to improve outcomes for women in leadership positions.