Profile Magazine - LGPro - 2021 Winter Edition

Local Government Professionals six-monthly magazine

WO ME N’S 2021

Winter 2021

Thursday 25 November 2021

Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Avenue, Richmond

Moving Forward

Building a new career

In a new league

Pedals power change

How women are shaping a new future

Kate Roffey on her rise to the top

How clever ideas bring people together

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To find out more, contact Talent Architects: t: (03) 9868 6565 e: ta@mcarthur.com.au w: mcarthur.life

CONTENTS 6-9 Women's Professional Development Forum Inspiring speakers, practical workshops, the forum in detail

12-13 Building a new career How a State Government program is expanding women's horizons

14-15 Tackling the top job

Above: LGPro's Emerging Leaders recently met with Local Government Minister Shaun Leane to discuss Local Government and the political context. See full story on page 54.

How Wyndham's Kate Roffey is rising to her latest challenge Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)

18 Put her name on it The women campaigning for signs of equality

LGPro, Level 3/58 Lorimer Street Docklands 3008 Ph: (03) 9268 6400 Email: info@lgpro.com Website: www.lgpro.com DEADLINES

20-21 Equality for all Meet the woman driving the gender equality transition

Deadline for submissions to the Summer edition of Profile is November 18, 2021. The magazine will be circulated in December 2021.

CONTRIBUTIONS

29-40 Corporate Partners Our directory of preferred providers with sector expertise

Story ideas and photographs are always welcome.

Contact info@lgpro.com ADVERTISING For information or to book advertising in Profile, contact info@lgpro.com

44-45 Cycle of change The clever ways libraries are tackling isolation

CREDITS Publisher: LGPro (03) 9268 6400 Graphic Designer: ADW Design Australia www.adwdesign.com.au

60-61 Professional Development Calendar Find your next professional growth opportunity this year

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT Several high profile sexual scandals were a catalyst for women taking to the streets in the March4Justice earlier this year. Hundreds protested about the many injustices women face, but at the heart of their public display was anger at continued sexism and sexual harassment in our workplaces.

Council offices are not immune from sexual harassment or

I for one believe things can only change with increased

discrimination and in this issue of Profile we investigate the

representation of women at all levels, especially in

road ahead and speak to people who are standing up for

Local Government.

equality and making great strides for change.

The Victorian Auditor General’s Sexual Harassment in

City of Casey director Jennifer Bednar has been appointed to

Local Government found more than one in four people

the State Government's Gender Equality Advisory Committee.

working at Councils said they had experienced workplace

This new committee will drive gender equality across our

sexual harassment in the past 12 months and that employees

79 Councils and provide advice to Local Government Minister,

from all roles and levels said they had experienced it.

Shaun Leane and Minister for Women, Gabrielle Williams on

It is only right that people take a stand and call for an end to all workplace power imbalances, whatever their role and wherever

how to achieve the Government target of 50 per cent female mayors and Councillors by 2025.

they work. You cannot assume harassment doesn’t take place

One way we can address the issue is gender equality, and

where you work; the only safe assumption is that it does.

LGPro – and our sector – are working to make improvements

As we move towards gender equality, the public sector is at

in this area.

the forefront of much-needed change, which is something

LIANA THOMPSON

to be proud of. I think we are increasingly aligned on that vision and the steps needed, some of which are outlined in

PRESIDENT, LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROFESSIONALS VICTORIA

the State Government’s Gender Equality Act 2020.

CEO NORTHERN GRAMPIANS SHIRE

In this issue, we also hear from Niki Vincent, Australia’s first Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner, on the next steps.

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Meanwhile, I am delighted to report LGPro Board member,

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

PROUD TO PUSH THE GENDER AGENDA Arriving from Canberra in February after three years as Director of National Events and Public Affairs at the Australian Local Government Association, I’ve observed that Victoria is at the forefront of positive change, especially when it comes to gender equality. But there is much more to achieve and LGPro is working towards equality. This not only benefits our members, but the Local Government sector.

Victoria holds a unique position in Australia, with Local

It is important that Councils create a safe environment for all

Government employing more women than men. In fact,

workers, including women. We are proud to push the gender

of the 60,000 Victorians employed by Councils, more than

agenda. LGPro is working proactively to foster positive change

60 per cent are women. Yet sadly, just one third of directors

for women across the sector.

and managers are women, including about 30 per cent of chief executives.

As American academic and author Brene Brown says, “There is no greater threat to the critics, cynics, and fearmongers than a

It’s not the worst performing sector for advancing women,

woman who is willing to fall because she has learned how to

but nonetheless, the statistics show many women are still

rise.” As more and more women find success, whatever their

reaching that “glass ceiling.” There are many factors at play, but

field, they will encounter resistance as they make their move.

LGPro is here to support and advance the cause of women in the workplace. Part of this commitment to foster female talent is our annual Women’s Professional Development Forum and Network Dinner, this year being held on Thursday 25 November.

JILL BROWN CEO, LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROFESSIONALS VICTORIA

The implementation of equality measures embedded in the Local Government Act 2020 and the Australian-first Gender Equality Act mean positive change is now enshrined in law.

The rules mean addressing inequity is a priority for Councils, and tackling the challenges identified by women who are Council employees.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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WOME

LGPRO WOMEN’S PROFESSIO

Thursday, 25 November 2021

MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND, BRUNTON AVENUE, RICHMOND. The LGPro Women’s Professional Development Forum addresses the issues, opportunities and challenges facing women working in the sector. It supports career development and provides personal growth strategies and shared approaches to addressing these issues.

This year we have two guest speakers, Jacinta Parsons and Catherine Fox.

Tickets: Members $400, Non-members $550

JACINTA PARSONS Jacinta began her radio-life at community radio station 3RRR over a decade ago, where she coordinated live music broadcasts and hosted several shows including Detour and Breakfasters. She made the move to the ABC in 2015, working with the Double J team and as Music Director for Local Radio. As well as presenting The New Music Show on ABC Radio, she has produced and presented a number of national broadcast events. Jacinta has lived with Crohn’s Disease for over 20 years and is an ambassador for the Crohn’s and Colitis Association and speaks and writes about the impact of living with chronic illness.

She is also an active member of the arts and music community and is a board member for Melbourne disability theatre company, Rollercoaster.

LINK

CATHERINE FOX Catherine Fox is a journalist, author and one of Australia’s leading workplace and leadership commentators. During a long career with the Australian Financial Review she wrote the weekly Corporate Woman column and was deputy editor of Boss magazine before leaving in 2012 to set up her own advisory business. Catherine has written several books, including “Stop Fixing Women: Why Building Fairer Workplaces Is Everybody’s Business” which was awarded the 2017 Walkley Award for Women’s Leadership in Media. Her latest book “Women Kind” examines how female solidarity and support is rebooting the global women’s movement. She was named in the Financial Review/Qantas 100 Women of Influence list for 2018 and is a member of the Australian Defence Force Gender Equality Advisory board, Australian Women Donors Network board, and co-founder of the Sydney Women’s Giving Circle.

LINK 6

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

#LGProWomen21

EN’S

MAJOR SPONSOR

Moving Forward

ONAL DEVELOPMENT FORUM EVENT PROGRAM

FOR

8.45am

Registration opens

9.15am

Program opening and Welcome to Country

9.45am

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

DET MORE AILS CL ICK

HER

E

Catherine Fox – Journalist and adviser on women’s issues

CONCURRENT SESSIONS 11.15am – 1.05pm

CHOOSE ONE SESSION TO ATTEND

SESSIONS A & E

Making a flexible work structure work for you What are your rights/opportunities for a flexible work environment? What has 2020 taught us about how we work and how/when we can work?

SESSIONS B & F

How to navigate with confidence through the $h!t that happens in work and life In this session you will have a heap of fun while learning practical, research-based strategies to help you flourish in your life and career regardless of its challenges.

SESSIONS C & G

How to join a board… no matter what stage of career you’re at In this workshop, you will learn about the types of boards, the benefits, and pathways to positions which best suit your unique set of skills and experience.

SESSIONS D & H

Recognise and effectively deal with self-doubt and imposter syndrome Further information will be available shortly.

2.15pm

PANEL DISCUSSION – You CAN ask that!

Female Councillors – Insights and perspectives of leadership and serving the community This facilitated discussion will provide an insight and give a ‘human face’ to the role of Councillors. You will gain a better understanding of what drives people to take up public office, the challenges and what they need from us.

Panellists to be advised.

3.40pm

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Jacinta Parsons – Broadcaster and writer LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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Thursday, 25 November 2021 MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND, BRUNTON AVENUE, RICHMOND. This annual event is a great opportunity to: • Network with colleagues • Hear from inspirational speakers • Celebrate the 2020 and 2021 winners of Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award.

This year we have two guest speakers, Dr Niki Vincent and Keely Walsh.

DR NIKI VINCENT Dr Niki Vincent is an experienced organisational and community leader with a keen interest in gender equality and human rights.

As the Victorian Public Sector Commissioner for Gender Equality, she oversees implementation of the Gender Equality Act 2020, which sets mandatory reporting and other obligations for 300-plus public sector workplaces covering 11 per cent of the state’s workforce. Dr Vincent will speak about Council obligations under the Act and how to provide safer workplaces, particularly considering the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office Sexual Harassment in Local Government report.

KEELY WALSH Keely Walsh is a social worker specialising in the support of people using an advanced trauma-informed approach and integrated therapeutic methods to achieve holistic wellbeing. As a member and postgraduate of Harvard Medical School, Ms Walsh works as a Global Mental Health Practice Leader promoting human rights, gender equality and systematic change. With 15 years’ experience in the mental health and disability sectors, Ms Walsh has spent eight years helping victims of sexual assault. Ms Walsh provides her perspective on speaking out and what can be done to create a culture of acceptance and empowerment.

6.30pm: Pre-dinner drinks, 7pm: Dinner For more details, click here.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Since winning scholarship Siobhan looks to further study In 2019 Siobhan Hardiman was awarded the Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship. She is a Senior Project Officer with the Children, Youth & Families Department at Monash City Council.

It wasn’t long after being awarded the Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship that Siobhan Hardiman became a first time mother to Eleanor. She was soon juggling motherhood, work and study.

In 2020 we all had to hit the ground running with adaptability, so I focused a lot of my work on creating and maintaining connections with young people in the community. I was able to stagger work, parenting and study in a way that was manageable.

I have a Masters of Social Work I completed in 2018, and the unit I am a few weeks away from finishing my studies in is Designing and Conducting Health Research. This has really equipped me to feel confident in approaching my PhD. Study has been a luxury of looking at the landscape of interventions around gendered violence with young people: what are the strengths, what are the gaps and what can I do in my corner of the world to contribute to this improving for the community?

I want to be a role model to my daughter that there are no limits to what she can achieve if she is willing to work hard.

My proudest achievement at work has been writing and delivering the Monash Young Women’s Leadership Program. This program emerged out of my work with incredibly strong young women who were navigating challenging periods in their life. It led me to work with more than 150 young women across the region. I feel privileged that I get to walk alongside these future leaders and support their goals for making a better world.

I work alongside brilliant, progressive and determined women in my role in Local Government. They are inspiring just in their everyday performance. We need more of them at every single level of work. I also believe that we need to keep working and developing gender equity in Local Government. There is still work that needs to be done to create safe, inclusive and equitable spaces for everyone, and once change is achieved, we move into maintenance.

This work should never be thought of as ‘done.’

Without the scholarship I simply would not have been able to afford to take on additional tertiary research units to complement my Masters and make me eligible for a PhD. Importantly, winning felt like someone was putting their hand on my shoulder and saying, "Keep going."

When you’re working towards something big, you can question yourself, your motivation or even the point (of it).

What are her ambitions now? “I am closer to starting my PhD and it is looking more like a reality than a dream.

Study has also increased my knowledge about my own practice in the gender violence space and I have a big idea that I am refining to be of better support for our community.

Siobhan Hardiman with daughter Eleanor.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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Camms.

Why reporting cyber risks is essential to combating cyber crime

According to an article from Andrew Tillett, Political Correspondent for the Australian Financial Review, the Australian Government, along with the Australian Cyber Security Centre, believe that the best way to reduce cyber incidents is to report and share them.

“To counter the proliferation of online threats – which range from crudely worded criminal scams exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic through to persistent attacks by foreign governments – the Morrison government has unveiled a $1.7 billion cyber security strategy,”

If you were following the news over the last year or so, and let’s be fair, who hasn’t, you may have noticed – between the headlines of US election drama and burgeoning pandemic numbers – that cyber crime is well and truly on the rise.

Andrew Tillett, Political Correspondent at Australian Financial Review

From Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison’s alarming announcement last June, that a foreign government had been discovered undertaking “malicious” cyber attacks against Australian government agencies; to the numerous hacking scandals plaguing the 2020 US election race.

But it’s not just the largest organisations who are at risk of cyber attacks – many organisations and businesses moving to work-from-home arrangements early last year fell victim to opportunistic cyber criminals, making the most of easy access to remote IT systems.

Last September, global IT and tech news site ZDNet, reported that there had been a “sharp rise in sophisticated hands-on hacking campaigns” in 2020, with the first half of the year showing more incidents than all of 2019.

Incident management

Analytics and reporting

Audit management

The findings came from a report from cyber security company Crowdstrike, and were based on “potential hands-on intrusions” identified by their research team.

“The first half of 2020 saw 41,000 intrusions, a higher figure than the 35,000 detected during all of 2019, according to the company,”

Stakeholder dashboarding

Camms.Risk IT & Cyber Risk Management

Compliance management

APIs

Risk treatment and control management

Danny Palmer, Senior Reporter at ZDNet

Danny continues, "It used to be that this type of sophistication was reserved for nation-state-backed hacking groups, but now it’s regularly demonstrated by cyber criminal gangs too.”

But even before remote working became the norm last year, business experts were acutely aware of the increasing risks of cyber crime. However, in recent times its rise to outranked Business interruptions “the most important business risk globally”, for the first time in the reports’ history has put it at the top of all board and executive meetings.

Adam Collins, Chief Product Officer at Camms, identified that to make everyone aware of cyber risk, organisations need an integrated system, like Camms.Risk, that can provide large organisations with a consistent view of how all risks, including cyber and IT, are maintained and controlled.

Camms.Risk is an intelligent and flexible risk management software that provides critical insights and decision-making in a fast paced, ever-changing business environment. It’s the best tool to manage risk, including cyber and IT risks.

FIND OUT MORE

But how can businesses stay on top of these risks, to reduce the regularity and severity of incidents?

Alex Kerr-Grant Head of Customer Success, Asia Pacific

www.cammsgroup.com

NO TWO DAYS THE SAME FOR YOUNG ACHIEVER Kate James, Youth Engagement Officer at Banyule City Council A lot has changed for Kate James since she was named a Young Achiever in the LGPro Annual Awards in February 2020. She has gone on to win a national title and welcome a new addition to the family.

After being named Young Achiever in the 2020 LGPro

space, so would love to take part in more initiatives that allow

Annual Awards in February, Kate James went on to earn

neighbouring Councils to work together to offer programming

national recognition at the Federation Awards in August.

and opportunities for young people and their families.

Now on maternity leave following the arrival of baby Sonny, Ms James fills us in on what it was like to earn recognition for her work with young people, particularly from the Somali Australian community and initiatives to address gender inequity for young people.

On another note, women continue to be underrepresented in senior leadership roles across the sector. I would love to see Local Government be a leader and example for other levels of government by changing this.

Each day of work for me is unique and I am grateful to have a role that allows me to work with such a diverse group of people. I am motivated by the young people I work with, their direction and knowledge of what is best for them.

It is a privilege to work alongside them, supporting them

I would love to expand my skills by taking on more leadership opportunities in the future...

to create the changes they want to see in their communities.

(I enjoy) the ability to be creative, undertake new initiatives regularly and to work directly with young people to develop the sorts of programs and opportunities they feel they need most.

(Winning the) awards has given me some amazing opportunities to connect with people that I wouldn’t regularly meet in my work, both internally at my Council and also externally in other organisations.

I would love to expand my skills by taking on more leadership opportunities in the future. I am also very passionate about cross-Council collaboration when working in the community

Kate James and baby boy Sonny.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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PROUDLY SUPPORTING MORE WOMEN IN BUILDING SURVEYING The Women Building Surveyors Program supports 40 successful candidates from Victorian Councils to begin the pathway to becoming a Municipal Building Surveyor.

This year the State Government established the Women Building Surveyors Program which commits $6.3 million over two years to give 40 women new opportunities to become Building Surveyors with Councils across Victoria.

LGPro is proud to partner with Local Government Victoria to support participants into relevant training courses and provide ongoing professional development opportunities.

Most participants have commenced their studies, with an even spread across both the Bachelor and Advanced Diploma pathways (leading to an Unlimited or Limited registration, respectively). LGPro has been working with Local Government Victoria, industry bodies, Councils, training providers and professional organisations affiliated with building surveying to ensure that successful candidates are supported through regular networking events, professional development advice, and educational and industrial guidance.

You can follow their progress via: Women Building Surveyors Program.

KATE STEPS UP WITH THE WOMEN BUILDING SURVEYORS PROGRAM With a little help from a Victorian Government grant and coordination from LGPro, long time Hume City Council employee Kate Pirani is taking the steps to build her career.

Enforcement of building compliance, safety and building

Building Surveyor and we’re very supportive of her journey

standards has been a responsibility of Councils through

towards qualification and registration as a Municipal Building

Building Surveyors for close to 30 years, but the number

Surveyor of the future,” said Mr Jolly.

of registered Building Surveyors and Building Inspectors in Victoria has changed little in two decades.

At the same time, Victoria’s population has increased by around two million people and workloads have increased considerably.

Ms Pirani was a Building Surveyors Assistant and had worked in the building industry for 19 years in an administrative role.

“In 2019 I started thinking about studying the Advanced Diploma of Building Surveying as it was offered for free as part of the TAFE priority courses program. But working full

The Victorian Government recently acknowledged the

time and maintaining a work-life balance made it difficult to

shortage and announced a Women Building Surveyors

commit the hours to the course,” said Ms Pirani.

Program to encourage more women into the profession.

The Program launched as part of the 2020/21 State Budget and committed $6.3 million over two years to give 40 women new opportunities to become Building Surveyors within Local Government across Victoria.

Hume City Council adopted the program and nominated one of their own to become a qualified Building Surveyor to help prop up and diversify the industry.

With the support of Hume City Council, Ms Pirani is on track to complete her course and become a qualified Building Surveyor. She looks forward to continuing her career journey within the building industry and is eager to get out on site with fellow surveyors and inspectors to get some further practical experience.

Hume City Council congratulates Ms Pirani for her courage to take the next step to further education and career growth

Peter Jolly, Hume’s Municipal Building Surveyor said:

with the support of the Victorian Government. The Council

“There is a significant shortage of Building Surveyors in

values and encourages continuous growth and career

Victoria, and as with many occupations related to the

progression to create a valuable and knowledgeable

building and construction industry, building surveying is

workforce to better serve

a very male-centric profession. In response to concerns

their community.

raised with (the) Government about the shortages, we had to get on board and nominate one of our own.”

Kate Pirani, who had worked in administrative support at the Council’s Municipal Building Surveyors office for nine years, earned a place. “It is very exciting for us that Kate was approved by Local Government Victoria for the funding allocation. Kate has now commenced in her role as Cadet

Being stuck at home last year due to COVID-19 encouraged me to reevaluate my future and gave me the push to enrol for the course part-time over four years. It’s now offered online, giving me the opportunity to study the Advanced Diploma of Building Surveying through Melbourne Polytechnic two nights a week after work.

Kate Pirani

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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KATE ROFFEY TACKLES A TOUGH JOB HEAD ON By day Kate Roffey works at Wyndham City Council, but it was when she was elected President of the Melbourne Football Club that her part time role made news headlines. Here she tells us her story.

Local Government wasn’t a sector I ever really considered

I always believe you turn up in the right place at the right

working in, but when I first was approached by our former

time for whatever reason, so really for me taking the role at

CEO Kelly Grigsby to come to Wyndham, I realised that there

Wyndham was about going with my gut instinct. When Kelly

was a big opportunity to make a significant impact on the

asked me to come and work in the west there were a number

future of a local community, so long as you have the right

of other opportunities I was considering, and while my mind

attitude toward visionary change – and are willing to push

kept saying pick one of the others – my gut instinct kept telling

the traditional boundaries.

me there is a reason to go to Wyndham. One new A-League

I always want to push the envelope – I have never been someone who was really interested in just kicking a can down

team and stadium later – I guess I now know the reason I was supposed to be here.

the road; so I choose to work in areas where people with my

Being a part of the A-League project from the day dot is

sort of working background may not usually go, but where

right up there. To start with a dream to win one of two new

they are probably most needed, to help bring about change.

A-League team licences and to build our own football stadium

Encouraging change and doing things that will make a long-

using a value-capture funding model is totally unique in

term difference for our community have by far and away been

Australia. To see our very own team of the West take to the

the most rewarding aspects of working in Local Government

field and play in the A-League and to continue to tick off the

for me.

long list of things we need to do to start building our stadium

I have only been at Wyndham (as Director – Deals, Investment

and training facility is almost still totally unbelievable.

and Major Projects) for about 4.5 years. I was the CEO of the

Of course, being critically involved in securing a $1 billion

Committee for Melbourne and before that I completed the

deal to redevelop the tennis centre and going to Wimbledon,

negotiations and masterplan for the $1 billion redevelopment

the French and US Opens and spending time with leading

of Melbourne Park for Tennis Australia, so my work history in

international sports clubs like the New York Yankees, the Mets,

the sector has been very brief.

the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston Astro’s, Manchester United

I grew up on a farm in the country, so I was riding horses by

and Barcelona FC amongst others wasn’t too bad either.

the time I was seven and motorbikes by nine. As a country kid,

Cheekily, I would have to say the most enjoyable thing about

you are always outside running around and being active; and

my Council role is most definitely annoying everyone else

in the country every kid pretty much plays Saturday morning

by starting every conversation with ‘DO NOT tell me no!’

sport of some sort.

Too often we just say it can’t be done because it hasn’t been

I think growing up outside gave me a really good fitness base – in my school years I was an 800m and cross country runner; and being blessed with pretty good athletic abilities,

done before, or it seems too hard. There is so much that can be done of huge importance at the Local Government level – but you have to make an effort to push that boundary.

I probably spent more of my time at school away on sporting

There is a huge area of opportunity in the space between what

trips than in the classroom. Playing and watching sport

we can’t do because it is not allowed under legislative and

and understanding how the mind and body worked always

legal requirements, and what we usually do – because that’s

fascinated me, so it is no surprise that I went off to university

what has always been done. I get the greatest satisfaction in

and studied sports science and psychology.

my work life from taking on a challenge no-one believes is possible – and doggedly pursuing it to make it happen and I have certainly been doing that at Wyndham.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

Being President of Melbourne Football Club wasn’t so much a case of wanting to lead the club, as being asked to lead.

These aren’t roles that you wake up one day and choose to do they are roles that others have to ask you to do or choose you for. Again, it is so much about being the right person at the right time in the right place.

As a Board we sat down and had a very open and honest conversation about who we felt was the best person at this time to lead the club. I am hugely honoured to be the person that my colleagues felt was the best person to lead at this time, and I am incredibly respectful of the fact that the Board and the Club have placed their faith and belief in me to be their President.

For me it is as much about being a woman as it is about

No doubt

being a President. I am the first female President of the oldest

there are still

professional sporting club in the world and that is something

many more times

unusual. It is really important for me to do as much as I can

we will have to fight and bang

to encourage everyone else to be the best they can be. It

the door down – I don’t know any female in a leadership role

shouldn’t matter if you are a female; in fact, it shouldn’t matter

who hasn’t had to do the ‘misogyny speech’ at some stage

what your ethnic background is, where you went to school,

in their career – but hopefully the need for that will continue

how much money you have in the bank – but unfortunately

to diminish over time until, one day, equal representation on

to some it does. So, I will chip away at the glass ceiling where

boards, or in any other forum, is not unusual anymore.

I can and hope that others come along and chip away with me – and if I can encourage another person, and another, and another to chip away at the barriers that prevent diversity, equity and inclusion, then it is all worthwhile.

To me this is about reflecting contemporary society. We have men and women in the workplace, we have men and women who stay at home to look after the family, we have men and women playing sport – so why would we not have men and

It took a long time to learn that my definition of ‘up’ or ‘progression’ is not the same as anyone else’s. I have been a CEO, I am a Chair of Boards, I’m now a President of an AFL club – so what’s next?

Who knows? I certainly haven’t finished my work – there are plenty more things I want to do and I will always be a work in progress.

women on boards? There are growing numbers of women being represented – but we need to do a lot better.

And I will note that this is not a gender war – men vs women.

My male colleagues around the board table are some of my best supporters and are absolute advocates for more female representation amongst other diversity aims – but that sadly isn’t the case with everyone. We subconsciously learn a lot from good role models, so the women in these roles have

I will just have to wait for that sign that shows me an open door and my gut instinct says don’t think about it – just walk through it; to see what happens next...

an important job to do to encourage and support others.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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OVERVIEW OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CONFERENCE Conference previously called the Customer Service Conference has been rebadged to the Customer Experience (CX) Conference.

To be held on Thursday 26 & Friday 27 August at Novotel on Collins, 270 Collins Street, Melbourne.

The LGPro Customer Experience Conference (previously the Customer Service Conference) is held on a biennial basis and is an important event in the sector’s calendar. The theme of this year’s Conference is ‘Outside In’ – How to build and scale customer centricity. Technology and a shift of customer attitudes has propelled Councils to put customers at the forefront of everything they do. In doing so, Councils are focusing on redefining and elevating customer experiences by evolving their practices in line with modern consumer demands to bring about greater customer experiences at every stage of the journey. This conference will explore what constitutes best practice in driving this change with

The first day's program will commence at lunchtime with workshops. The second day's program to consist of a full day conference incorporating keynote presentations, concurrent interactive sessions and a panel session.

Click here to register for CX Conference.

case studies covering a mix of CX maturity levels.

We would anticipate that between 100-120 directors, managers, coordinators and team leaders working in Victorian Local Government will attend over the two days.

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

E T A R O P ERS CORA N N L P TWORK NE WARD A

1 2 0 2

CELEBRATE THE SUCCESSES OF OUR SECTOR'S PLANNERS INCLUDING A ONCE EVERY FOUR-YEAR AWARD Nominations are now open for LGPro’s annual Corporate and Community Planning Award and the four-yearly Best Practice and Innovation in Council Plan Development.

FOR DETAILS CLICK HERE

FEMALE ATHLETES IN BAW BAW GET A SPORTING CHANCE With gender equity firmly on the Local Government agenda for 2021, Baw Baw Shire Council is committed to amplifying the voices of local women and celebrating their achievements.

This year’s International Women’s Day event in March –

This was the second year that Council partnered with

a successful partnership between Council and non-profit

Women in Gippsland to deliver an International Women’s

Women in Gippsland – will likely leave a lasting impact, with

Day event.

all female Councillors invited on stage to accept a dozen nominations for the Council’s Sporting Walk of Fame.

The Sporting Walk of Fame was created in 1999 to recognise the region’s champion athletes. Since then, 19 local athletes have been immortalised with a commemorative plaque on the walk – with just three of them women.

In addition to a capacity audience within the theatre, the event was broadcast live on Facebook, reaching more than 20,000 viewers.

The stage was shared by 15 diverse Gippsland women, including Aunty Vera Briggs, Victorian Farmers Federation President Emma Germano, entrepreneur and author Sarah

Women in Gippsland – a network established in 2014 to

Davidson, multicultural leader Farhat Firduos, documentary

empower and inspire women – collected the stories of

filmmaker Danielle McAlpine Johnson and Baw Baw’s youngest

12 Baw Baw Shire women who have excelled both nationally

Councillor, Cr Tauru, who was elected last year aged just 21.

and internationally in sports as diverse as underwater hockey, archery, and para-dressage.

The Council’s involvement includes both financial support and officer resources to make the event happen. All profits

The symbolism of Council receiving the nominations on

are donated to Women in Gippsland to fund their advocacy

stage in front of an audience of 500 people was fully supported

work, including the #puthernameonit campaign.

by CEO Mark Dupe and Baw Baw’s three female Councillors Tricia Jones, Annemarie McCabe, and Jazmin Tauru. The nominations were also submitted through formal channels for Council consideration later this year.

The momentum continues, with Public Sector Gender Equity Commissioner Dr Niki Vincent giving a free address open to local businesses and public sector organisations from across Gippsland.

Baw Baw Shire Council is continuing to seek opportunities to advance the cause of gender equity within the community.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

17

GIPPSLAND CAMPAIGN AIMS TO ACKNOWLEDGE WOMEN’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO COMMUNITY A campaign which aims to address the place names gender gap is building on the work Bass Coast Shire Council has been doing to acknowledge local, notable women when naming new streets and places.

The Put Her Name On It campaign, spearheaded by Women

Ms Wastie said the Committee was also working on a Gender

in Gippsland and local Councils, is gaining momentum. It aims

Audit, with 1,500 road names to be assessed, as well as an

to acknowledge the achievements of women by having more

unknown number of named features to be searched for.

locations named in their honour.

Warragul resident and campaign co-founder Kerry Wilson

pavilions are named after men, and while this project is not

has lobbied Gippsland's Councils to conduct audits of the

about undoing history, it is about taking the opportunity when

region's streets, locations, and landmarks in a bid to shed

we can to acknowledge the women who helped make Bass

a light on the gender gaps in Victoria's place naming system.

Coast what it is today,” Ms Wastie said.

“Having so few public places named after women is an

“It is a lengthy and difficult process to re-name existing streets

alarming example of gender inequality and sends a dangerous

or places, so we are taking the approach of naming new

message that women (and their contributions) are not as

streets and new places after women as part of this campaign.

important as men,” Kerry Wilson said.

“The research we are doing is great, but the most important

“We want to see that change and are calling on the State

thing is to start seeing the names of women in the community

and Local Governments to prioritise the acknowledgment

for all to recognise. This is where the change will be made,”

of women in public place naming and commemoration.”

Ms Wastie said.

Bass Coast Shire undertook an audit and found under-

The campaign is also focused on naming places after

representation of female place names for localities, roads

First Nations people and working with the Bunurong Land

and streets. Bass Coast Shire CEO Ali Wastie said that the

Council Aboriginal Corporation aiming for greater indigenous

#puthernameonit campaign was important to address the

acknowledgement.

under-representation of women in place names, right across Gippsland.

“At Council, our Place Names Committee aims to work with local historical societies and community groups to identify local, notable women who we would like to honour and recognise by ‘putting her name on it,’” Ms Wastie said.

“In recent years, Gilmour Track in Cape Paterson was named in honour of Annie Gilmour, a valued member of the lifesaving club who taught many to swim and survive in the ocean, and Davidson Place Wonthaggi was named in honour of Ruby May Davidson, who owned and ran the farm ‘Mayfield’ from 1935, supplying the local community with her hand made produce.”

18

“The reality is, the majority of places, buildings, ovals and

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IN AN AUSTRALIAN FIRST GENDER EQUALITY IS NOW LAW FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR The Gender Equality Act came into effect on 31 March 2021. It requires local Councils to take positive action towards gender equality within their organisation and in their public programs, policies and services. Here Dr Niki Vincent, Commissioner for Gender Equality in the Public Sector outlines progress of the Act and its implications.

What does the Gender Equality Act 2020 mean for Victorian Councils and what areas of their operation does it apply to?

Organisations must undertake comprehensive workplace gender audits across seven key indicators and based on this data, consult with their employees, governing body and employee representatives to develop Gender Equality Action Plans every four years. They must publicly report on progress every two years. In addition, gender impact assessments are required for all new public-facing policies, programs and services, as well as those under review.

What other public employers are covered under the Act? The Gender Equality Act applies to 300-plus Victorian organisations – including the Victorian Public Service, public entities, special bodies, Court Services Victoria, and the Office of Public Prosecutions. All up, it will cover around 380,000 employees – some 11 per cent of Victoria’s workforce.

Why is the Act important?

There is a plethora of economic and social research evidence that demonstrates the problems of gender inequality. There is currently a 10.7 per cent gender pay gap across the Victorian public sector. As one of Victoria’s largest employers, the public sector must lead by example and address the systemic drivers of gender inequality within the workforce.

KPMG analysed the components contributing to the gender pay gap in Australia in their She’s Price(d)less Report on the economics of the gender pay gap in 2019. Their results showed that the most significant component contributing to the gender pay gap in Australia continues to be gender discrimination, accounting for 39 per cent. This is conscious and unconscious bias against women in the workforce.

Taking time out to have babies is an important contributor to the pay gap at 25 per cent, but it is blitzed by gender discrimination. Importantly, as KPMG noted, gender discrimination and stereotyped gender norms also influence the other factors that drive the gender pay gap – such as industrial and occupational segregation, which together contribute to 17 per cent of the gender pay gap.

This is why it is very important to target gender discrimination through legislation that really has teeth, such as the Gender Equality Act. Every organisation covered by the Gender Equality Act will be required to publish their data on inequality and demonstrate they are making reasonable and measurable progress in addressing this. When each organisation is transparent about where they need to improve, it means their staff, my office and the broader community will be able to hold them to account.

What do you see as the main reasons for the Act? The Act will address the drivers of gender inequality.

It will increase workforce participation rates – including by reducing discrimination experienced by carers and parents and increasing flexible work arrangements. It will increase women’s economic security – including by addressing the gender pay gap, gendered segregation in the workforce, and structural inequalities preventing women from accessing leadership positions. It will improve health and wellbeing outcomes – including by reducing rates of sexual harassment in the workplace, and improving access to flexible working arrangements, appropriate return-towork arrangements and family violence leave. There will be economic outcomes such as increased GDP and economic productivity through addressing workforce participation, the gender pay gap, and increasing retention. Public policies, programs and services will be more effective and efficient as a result of designing and reviewing them with the needs of all community members in mind.

Women make up 68 per cent of the public sector workforce, but they are significantly over-represented in lower paid roles. Even in leadership positions, the gender pay gap persists for women in the public sector.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

Workplaces, and communities, are evolving all the time, why do we need legislation to change the role of women?

According to the World Economic Forum, based on current pace of change, gender equality won’t be achieved for a century. This change has been glacial because it requires new learning, changes in people’s values, priorities, beliefs and loyalties – in their sense of identity. It also creates a fear of loss for those who hold power and privilege.

These are slow and painful adjustments.

This is why this legislation is needed. It has put in place the framework to break down outdated stereotypes and systemic inequalities – to achieve what organic change hasn’t. You can’t manage what you don’t measure, and this legislation makes that happen, so organisations can understand where gender inequality exists and focus attention and resources on doing something about it. This will clear the way for workplaces and communities to evolve much more rapidly to achieve gender equality for all.

What is your sense of how Councils are going with meeting their obligations?

What is the Commissioner’s role in the Act’s rollout across the public sector?

Different organisations are at different stages. So, while

My role has distinct education, monitoring, research, dispute

ahead of the game and already have strategies in place to

resolution and enforcement functions under the Act.

promote gender equality. A majority of Councils (73 of 79)

some are still very much in the early stages, others are well

have opted-in to the Victorian Public Sector Commission’s

What assistance does the Gender Equality Commission provide to Councils? Is support available? If so, what?

We published detailed guidance materials on undertaking workplace gender audits, gender impact assessments and Gender Equality Action Plans. These are fantastic,

People Matter survey, which will provide important data for the workplace gender equality audit, which is the first step in developing a Gender Equality Action Plan.

What action can you take if an organisation is found to be in breach of the Act?

detailed resources and will be really helpful for anyone

My role as Commissioner enables me to enforce

involved in these areas.

compliance. This may include an informal resolution,

We have also established a Panel of Providers that organisations can engage for specific assistance to meet their obligations under the Act. They will deliver support services across the following areas: workplace gender auditing, gender impact assessments, strategies to improve gender equality, evaluation, and IT services. We are providing

issuing a compliance notice, or recommending that the Minister takes action with the organisation. If all else fails, I can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for an order directing the organisation to comply.

Who can Councils contact with their inquiries?

free workshops, tailored to individual sector needs through

We have comprehensive information on our website and

the Panel, so Councils can access training on how to audit

while there, you can also subscribe to our newsletter. Visit

their workforce and how to conduct a gender impact

www.genderequalitycommission.vic.gov.au or email us

assessment on a new policy, program or service.

at enquiries@genderequalitycommission.vic.gov.au

COMMISSION FOR GENDER EQUALITY IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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WOMEN MAKING GREAT STRIDES WITHIN COUNCILS Janelle Bunfield, Greater Shepparton City Council Manager Works and Waste Women are increasingly stepping into roles that were once the traditional domain of men. At Greater Shepparton City Council one woman is leading the charge.

As a female manager, Janelle Bunfield has faced her fair share

Starting out as an Administration Officer within Rates

of challenges. But she has proven gender is no barrier when

and Valuations, Ms Bunfield worked her way up the ladder

it comes to rolling up your sleeves and getting the job done.

before taking the opportunity to transfer to the Infrastructure

Ms Bunfield has been in the role of Manager Works and Waste

Directorate when a position became available.

for the past two and a half years and oversees a range of key

Bringing a fresh face and a unique perspective, Ms Bunfield

areas at the Council, including all of Greater Shepparton’s

has overcome a number of obstacles to get the department

outdoor staff who maintain roads, footpaths, traffic facilities

to the flourishing position it is in.

and bridges.

“Coming in with a new set of eyes and ideas, and a desire

She also manages the municipality’s landfill, transfer stations,

to build a strong culture and streamline processes, it can be

kerbside rubbish collection and waste education. And if

difficult and confronting for the team,” she said.

that’s not enough, Ms Bunfield also oversees the day to day operations of the Shepparton aerodrome.

“It’s a pretty big portfolio but I enjoy it,” Ms Bunfield said.

“It has its moments and it can be very challenging, but I think that’s what makes it exciting. No two days are the same.

“The biggest challenge is the size of the portfolio. At the minute waste is evolving rapidly and there is a lot to be on top of, but we pride ourselves as being leaders in this space.”

“However, there are a lot of good staff in the department with lots of experience and knowledge, who also have the best interests of the organisation at heart.”

With experience as a racehorse driver from the young age of 15, Ms Bunfield said she already had experience working in a male-dominated field, which has served her well in her role.

With a wealth of experience under her belt, Ms Bunfield encourages all woman to put their hands up in the workplace, take any opportunities and push themselves to take on new challenges.

She hopes to see more women filling roles across government organisations, in particular more senior roles, with an end goal of working to remove gender divides in Australian workplaces.

“I’m very much a doer so this environment suits me, I’m happy to roll up my sleeves and get my hands dirty,” Ms Bunfield said.

I think times are changing and we are seeing females in traditionally male dominated work areas and vice versa.

It’s been a journey but it’s been one that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I’ve always been very proud to work for Council, especially in this role.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

Local Government Victoria Local Government Victoria works in partnership with councils to support a respected and resilient local government sector that delivers to all community members.

Here are just some of the ways we’re doing that:

Gender Equity in Local Government Program

Rural Councils Transformation Program

Supporting an increase in women in local government leadership positions to better reflect the communities they serve.

Transforming regional service delivery and boosting the financial sustainability of rural councils to contribute to liveability and productivity.

Outdoor activation

Funding Community Infrastructure

Supporting councils through grants to activate outdoor dining and entertainment to help local economies recover.

Councils & Emergencies Project and the Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program

Supporting councils in providing vital community infrastructure through programs such as Growing Suburbs Fund, Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme.

Supporting local government capability and strengthening community recovery following an emergency.

To find out more about support available to councils, visit: localgovernment.vic.gov.au

MEET BAYSIDE’S KRISTY GREEN Manager Sustainability and Transport for Bayside City Council, Kristy Green is paving the way for women in leadership roles in Local Government, challenging traditional gender narratives and inspiring her team to achieve.

When a pending merger on the horizon in the shrinking

Ms Green was considering an industry change when she

paper industry presented the possibility of redundancy,

saw the position of Manager of Sustainability and Transport

Kristy Green made the decision to go to night school to

at Bayside City Council advertised on LinkedIn.

study business and make herself indispensable.

“What interested me in the role was the closeness to the

With a two-year-old at home and working full time, Ms Green

community and the impacts of your work – essentially your

managed studying nights and developed a strong passion for

sole purpose is to make where you are working a better place

sustainability. “Studying Business really opened my eyes to

for residents, and rather than being driven by profit outcomes,

the fact that our resources are finite, and that I needed to do

you are focusing on the creation of a thriving community

something to try to secure some kind of future for the next

and a better future for the people who live in Bayside.”

generation,” Ms Green said.

Ms Green’s experience in the private sector transferred

Ms Green stayed at the paper company and worked her

seamlessly to her new role and she was appointed to the

way up to Business Development Manager. When legislation

position in June 2019. “In my role as Manager of Sustainability

changed around illegal logging and paper imports, she

and Transport I’m responsible for the Environmental

established a Sustainability Department within the business.

Sustainability, Transport Planning, Traffic Management

“I began studying Sustainability at Swinburne, and within

and the Recycling and Waste Management teams.”

two months I found myself juggling a full-time job, part-time

In just under two years, Ms Green has already led her team

study, a four-year-old, a new national department and a

to a number of commendable achievements including

pregnancy - but I loved my job, and the business continued

the declaration of a Climate Emergency by Bayside City

to thrive, despite a declining market.”

Council in December 2019 and leading the Council to being

Two years later, now with two children, Ms Green was headhunted by Coles supermarkets into the Position of Sustainability Program Manager where she worked for three

certified carbon neutral in its operations in December 2020 – the first Council in the South East of Melbourne to achieve the milestone.

years. She was responsible for the team delivering waste and

“The best part is the collaboration. In all the places I’ve worked,

recycling, food donation programs and the REDcycle soft

I’ve never seen an organisation function so collaboratively,

plastics program nationally, as well as consulting throughout

with teams willing to listen to each other and work together

the business on various initiatives and projects.

to get the best possible outcome for residents.”

“The sheer size and scope of Coles allowed me to learn so much about myself, about business, and about the challenges that can be faced in the pursuit of embedding sustainability into the core operations of a large FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) organisation,” Ms Green said.

During this period, Ms Green had her third child and her husband took on the role of full-time carer, as she managed a large team, long hours and lots of travel for work.

“We made the decision that it would be best for our family if my husband could stay at home with the kids. He has taken the role on like an absolute champion, although there was definitely a period of blu tack coloured whites and some pretty questionable dinners,” Ms Green joked.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

My favourite thing about working at Bayside City Council is the culture – everyone is welcoming, friendly and helpful and super passionate about what they do. There are great systems in place which mean picking up the ways of working was very easy for me transitioning from my previous role in the private sector.

Ms Green took part in the 2020 Local Government Pro Australasian Management Challenge with the team coming in a strong second. She loved the Challenge so much she decided to become a mentor in 2021 for the next group of emerging leaders coming through.

“The LGPro Challenge was a great experience and has created so much value for the organisation through skill expansion, cross functional collaboration and lasting relationships as well as some great new ideas that were created through the pre-Challenge tasks.”

Not one to grow stagnant in her professional selfdevelopment, Ms Green was one of 24 Local Government leaders to be accepted into the 2021 LGPro XLP Executive Leadership Program.

I think my skills do lie in being a people leader and eventually I would like to work as part of an Executive Team and, one day, as a CEO. I want to make an impact in the industry and be an example of strong female leadership in the Local Government sector.

“The program has been so valuable for me, from creating a strong network of likeminded individuals across the sector, to enhancing the way I approach issues that are really relevant to Local Government leadership, and gaining exposure to some fantastic speakers and industry experts”.

During pandemic restrictions and work from home advice from the State Government, like many families across Victoria, Ms Green navigated working from home and parenting challenges.

“Home Schooling made me want to hide in a cupboard, and my team soon got used to regular appearances from

“When I first came in to Local Government and began managing a team (Traffic and Transport,) that was not based within the spectrum of my traditional technical skills, I found I had to develop new skills as a leader and trust in my team to be that technical expert, so I could work to support them to deliver the organisational goals.

It helped me to understand that those skills are fundamentally transferrable and can be applied across different areas. When the opportunity came up with Libraries Arts and Culture it was a step right outside my comfort zone, and a great chance to stretch myself.”

“It’s a great way to build on the skills I will need to progress in my career, particularly if I was to take on an area outside my usual area of expertise.”

And what does the future hold?

Between a rich and fulfilling career, Ms Green still prioritises her work life balance, spending time with her family and planning for the future.

“I would like to move my family regionally. The country is a great place for kids to grow up and it would allow me to explore opportunities at an executive level.”

Zaylee (my two year old) in our meetings, but it was such a fantastic growth experience for all of us. With the organisation’s support, the team remained engaged and kicked goals throughout both lockdowns.“ Most recently, Ms Green has taken the opportunity to fill an internal six-month secondment as Manager Libraries, Arts and Culture where she is familiarising herself with a much different part of the organisation.

My absolute best moments are when my three kids are playing together – giggling, roughhousing and just generally being adorable.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

25

TEAMS BATTLE IT OUT IN MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE The Victorian heats of the Australasian Management Challenge were held in Ringwood in May and won

by Maroondah City Council who will go on to represent Victoria at the Australasian finals in August.

Congratulations to all the teams that competed.

SPONSORED BY

HUME CITY COUNCIL IS MOVING ALONG THE PATH TO GENDER EQUALITY Roslyn Wai, Acting CEO, Hume City Council Hume is not alone in having gender imbalances in certain areas of the organisation, particularly in areas like community care or outdoor work. One of the requirements of the Gender Equality Act is to undertake a workforce audit to better understand these imbalances. Our next step from there will be to determine if there are any barriers to participation for certain people and, if so, take action to address them.

Hume has a strong commitment to gender equality through

organisational settings. As a public-sector organisation and

measures that facilitate equality, including equal pay, equal

prominent local employer, Hume is a role model and leads

opportunities, equal recognition, flexible work practices

by example.

and specific Enterprise Agreement clauses that support equitable outcomes.

Our Gender Equity Working Group was established in 2019.

It is made up of staff from across the organisation that are

Further to this, we support increased gender equity and

passionate about progressing gender equality initiatives and

proactive leadership to reduce inequity through activities

inclusive work practices at Hume. Membership is representative

such as White Ribbon Day events, Women’s Leadership Forums,

of the organisation, with involvement across a mix of banding

staff gender equity awareness training and ‘Women in Front’

levels, work sites and Directorates.

business events (promoting the importance of economic independence for women).

The Working Group meets monthly to discuss opportunities for progressing inclusive work practices and provide valuable

We recognise that even with our equal opportunity practices

insight from their many work areas. It helps guide and oversee

embedded in Council systems and processes, unequal outcomes

the implementation of our Gender Equity Action Plan and

may still occur. To further improve gender equality, to date

actively supports the implementation of Gender Equity Action

we have been concentrating our efforts inward to make sure

Plan initiatives.

our recruitment practices and uniform options are completely unbiased. We also recently held a five-part series of ‘Women in STEAM’ events to promote and celebrate the achievements of our female staff in traditionally male dominated industries.

As an organisation, we have an ongoing commitment to ensuring that all staff are able to receive and enjoy the same rewards, resources and opportunities regardless of gender identity. We have much to gain by committing ourselves to

Our new focus is on ensuring our compliance with the new

achieving gender equity. By fully tapping into the resources

Victorian Gender Equality Act 2020.

of every member in our organisation, this will eventually result

Councils are uniquely placed to play a strong leadership role in advancing gender equity within their governance and

in a larger, stronger and more effective organisation, and as a result a strengthened community.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

27

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MORE WOMEN RETURNING TO WORK IN VICTORIA Recent employment figures show women are leading the way in the return to work across Victoria.

This follows last year’s job losses which hit women hardest particularly in hospitality and retail.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics confirmed last month

Victorian workers were front and centre of the state’s

that 243,000 jobs were created in Victoria since September

recovery and were central to the Government’s unprecedented

2020, with 147,000 being jobs for women.

investment in job creation for those hit hardest by the

Women are leading the return to the labour force, with

coronavirus pandemic.

female participation rates increasing 4.4 percentage points

“We know that women’s employment was hit hard during

since September 2020, helping Victoria reach a record

the pandemic, so these figures are reassuring to see as our

high overall participation rate of 66.9 per cent.

economy continues to bounce back,” Treasurer Tim Pallas said.

Female employment is booming in professional services,

“We’re driving gender equality and we know that employment

retail trade and hospitality, showing the Government’s

plays a crucial role in that – that’s why we’ve invested heavily

targeted recovery strategy is working.

in jobs, education and training opportunities for women.”

The State Government is investing $250 million to create around 10,000 jobs, with at least $150 million going towards getting women back in work – with extra assistance for women over 45 who face additional barriers.

The State Government maintains its pioneering Gender Equality Act is continuing to break down barriers, with $13 million going towards reducing inequality in the workplace and creating opportunities for women.

The latest ABS figures show Victoria’s recovery is well on track with 6,200 people finding work in March.

MCKINNON LIBRARY POPS UP AT THE STATION During a $6.2 million Bentleigh Library and Youth Hub redevelopment, the Glen Eira community will find their library and youth services at a temporary location next to McKinnon train station.

Bentleigh Library was constructed in 1965 and further upgraded in recent years. It is a popular library receiving more than 200,000 visitors annually and provides information, materials, services and programs for the community. However, it had reached capacity, specifically in terms of space.

"Bentleigh Library will be transformed from an undersized, congested facility into a vibrant new civic centre, which will also be the new home for our Youth Services,” Mayor Margaret Esakoff said. “The new Bentleigh Library and Youth Hub will include flexible multipurpose spaces that can be adapted to deliver a range of services, programs and events for young people, adults, and families through to senior citizens.”

Due for completion in 2022, the library will include support services and programs for young people, a teen lounge, training room and a recording and editing suite.

SHOPPING FOR A BIGGER, BETTER LIBRARY IN ROSANNA In what is believed to be a Victorian first, Banyule City Council is partnering with supermarket chain Woolworths to deliver a new library for Rosanna. The public/private partnership will save the Council an estimated $10 million and deliver a new library by 2024.

The plan will double the library’s size providing expansion to the children's area as well as co-working and study spaces.

The Council is consulting with the community over the proposal and maintains the partnership provides an opportunity to deliver a new and improved library much sooner than anticipated.

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NEW LIBRARY WILL HELP INVIGORATE COMMUNITY’S HEART Moira Shire Council will receive $1 million from the State Government towards construction of Yarrawonga’s new library and community hub.

Mayor Libro Mustica said this funding would help transform the town hall site into a vibrant community precinct, with not only a state-of-the-art library, but a customer service centre, meeting spaces, and a commercial kitchen to service major events at the town hall.

“This $1 million grant from the State’s Living Libraries Program is additional to the $3.75 million from the Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme, which offers low-interest, subsidised loans to Councils for infrastructure projects,” Cr Mustica said.

“We aim to create a vibrant and diverse community hub and have been working closely with user groups of the existing Community Hall and precinct to incorporate, where possible, the services and facilities they need into the new designs.”

Cr Mustica said he was confident the Council could achieve a wonderful civic precinct development that would reinvigorate Yarrawonga’s most prominent public building and serve the whole community for many years to come.

WOMEN LEADERS IN VICTORIA’S PUBLIC LIBRARIES Victoria’s public library sector boasts many outstanding women leaders — not surprisingly, given the overwhelmingly female nature of the workforce.1 Women in public libraries are typically at the forefront of innovative planning and dynamic programming designed to meet the changing needs of communities.

Two exemplars among women leading libraries in very different parts of Victoria are Leanne Williams and Felicity Macchion. See page over for the full story.

The Wificycle Yarra Libraries continues to run a weekly free community Market with fresh food, clothes, and books, at one of the local housing estates. With the COVID-19 experience having highlighted the disadvantage faced by these communities due to lack of wi-fi and access to digital help, Yarra Libraries is also pioneering a new kind of remote access. “We have fitted out our library bike with wi-fi, enabling over 30 people to connect and providing staff on hand to help with all IT,” Felicity explains. “We call it our WiFicycle.”

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Leanne Williams

Leanne Williams has been CEO of West Gippsland Libraries for four and a half years and has worked in Local Government for over 11 years. Under Leanne’s leadership, West Gippsland piloted the state’s first 24/7 library service in the town of Foster. Operating just like a 24/7 gym membership, the Foster Library enables locals to access services at their own convenience. Leanne describes the 24/7 Library Service as “our most significant innovation, one which has attracted worldwide attention. We are now expanding our 24/7 services to more libraries, providing greater access to more people at their convenience.”

Leanne’s

Yarra Libraries, where Felicity Macchion has been manager

vision for women

for four years, is also implementing the “Open Library” concept,

in the library sector and in

providing extended staff and unstaffed hours of public access

society more broadly “is that they are empowered to progress

to library branches in Richmond and North Fitzroy.

their careers. We need to support each other and work together

Under Felicity’s leadership, Yarra Libraries were “busier than ever supporting our community” during Melbourne’s extended COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Building on new and existing

to enable more women to achieve positions of leadership.

I am very passionate about supporting other women to achieve great things, which is why I volunteer my mentoring services.

partnerships with organisations such as Open Table, Cultivating

“I have learned that we can’t do it alone,” she says. “We need

Community and local Neighbourhood Houses, the library

a cheer squad and a pit crew.”

team packed and delivered fresh fruit and vegetables, pre-

Felicity is committed to supporting the professional

made meals, pre-loved books and family activity packs to

development of all her staff, “giving women in the Library

people across the City of Yarra. “In 45 weeks, this amounted

team the confidence to put their hands up and to try new

to 18,000 deliveries, 81,000 mouths fed during the pandemic,”

roles within libraries and across Council.

Felicity says. “Our Library team also packed food parcels for our homeless community for St Mary’s House of Welcome, resulting in 3,148 meals a week and 12,592 meals per month

“We may not have all the answers, but we know where to find them – that is what librarians

being served to 18 motels and seven group homes.”

do best,” she says.

Leanne also leads a team committed to social equity,

“Libraries are forever changing,

supporting organisations to help prevent violence against women, protect mental health, champion work-life balance, and provide mentoring support to students and emerging

and we need to change alongside our community.” Having worked for 26 years in public libraries,

women leaders.

Felicity has witnessed this change

Another innovative program, “Books By Us,” turns primary

better connecting with what

school classrooms into publishing centres. West Gippsland

the community needs

Libraries works with schools and their classrooms to write

and how we can

a book and have it published. “Students get to walk the red

be inclusive of

carpet at the launch event, attended by their families and

everyone. Libraries

the media,” Leanne explains. “Their books are then catalogued

change lives

and available for loan from the public.”

every day.”

firsthand. “I think librarians are

I am really proud of the way we continue to stay connected to our community more than ever through the COVID-19 pandemic. We kept our libraries at the heart of our community in time of need.

– Felicity Macchion

1. The Australian Libraries and Information Association Workforce Diversity Trend Report 2019 showed the Galleries, Libraries and Museums sector to be 82% female in 2016, compared with a 47% female total labour force.

Felicity Macchion

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JOIN A SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP

Tap into a wealth of knowledge from people working in your own field.

To keep up to date with information and expertise, click here.

WHY WORK IN ISOLATION WHEN YOU CAN JOIN A SIG? Geelong City Council Community Infrastructure Planner Genevieve Cooper explains why she loves working in Local Government and why there’s value in being a member of an LGPro Special Interest Group, or SIG. My Local Government career has given me the opportunity

The SIG has

to engage with a myriad of diverse communities, and

provided me

seek to understand community values and need, lived

with a vast network

experience in accessing services and public space.

of colleagues to learn

Social equity has been a critical consideration in place-based planning, delivery of community services,

from and provide support and assistance in the evolution of Social Infrastructure Planning.

programs, and assets ranging from Sport, Recreation

My motivation is to support my community to realise their

and Open Space, Community Development, Community

vision and aspirations for Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula

Facilities, Arts and Culture along with Social Planning

and to positively impact the lives of my family, friends and

and Investment.

local community.

The Social Infrastructure Planners SIG creates a community

I love the intrinsic value of and role that community services

of practice and provides vibrant, stimulating and relevant

and infrastructure play in people’s lives and I get the most

conversations to support practitioners. We are acquiring

joy in the knowledge that what I do has a positive impact

knowledge, challenging (each other) and being innovative

on all members of the community. I aspire to make a

in addressing issues pertinent to the industry.

significant impact in addressing social inequity, influencing

It has been an honour to be co-convenor of the Social Infrastructure Planners Group. I wholeheartedly encourage

climate outcomes, making places people love, celebrating the uniqueness of our local communities.

all members to actively participate in the SIG network to

I have had the pleasure of working with many local

create connections, learn from each other and collaborate

communities to help to realise their vision and aspirations

for the benefit of all.

for the place that they live, the services and activities that they access and the social interactions they seek.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

HOW ARTISTS, AND SOME OLD CARDBOARD, ENGAGED THE CASEY TEAM Occasionally, a change and engagement opportunity arises that excites, inspires and far exceeds expectations. While developing their new Organisation and Transformation Strategies, the City of Casey saw the need to engage their people and did so in an innovative and creative way.

In collaboration with internationally acclaimed artists Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan they created the Evolve Home/Land installation and virtual tour.

People from across the organisation contributed by making a cardboard model and sharing their contributions into how they wished to see their organisation evolve over the next five to 10 years.

“Our world and communities are changing and we need to evolve with them to be here for them in the long term,” says Jen Bednar, Director Customer and Business Transformation (also LGPro Board member), while CEO Glenn Patterson says the Evolve Home/Land engagement program has been “hugely impressive.”

their own strategic foresight. A tie in with the health and wellbeing program provided reassurance that it was fine to work this way. After each workshop, the insights were sent to the program teams who built them directly into their strategy work. Being 100 per cent recyclable, with cardboard

COVID-19 added significant challenges with participants

materials sourced from around City of Casey workplaces,

working remotely and kits being delivered to their homes.

the project showed that with a little creativity “waste” can

However, the resulting conversations were inspiring, the

be turned into something with strategic value.

models are amazing, and have come together to create a

The project saw cross organisation collaboration with

world-class installation representing how the City of Casey, as an organisation, is evolving.

Many workshops were Auslan interpreted, ensuring everyone had opportunities to have their opinions heard and contribute

David Arnold, Penny Teale, Catherine Bennetts-Cash, Sarah Lyons and Jess Moody from the City of Casey’s Change Management and Bunjil Place Gallery teams jointly develop and deliver Evolve Home/Land.

“This project demonstrates that by involving people in change, they can fully contribute their ideas, have their voices heard and shape the future of an organisation. The models are remarkable and the strategic foresights are sharp, insightful and perceptive.”

David Arnold Change Management Lead, Casey City Council

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COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

KINGSTON INVESTS IN LOCAL SPORT TO BRIDGE GENDER DIVIDE The City of Kingston is one step closer to bridging the gender divide in sports participation with the recent opening of the Ben Kavanagh Reserve netball courts in Mordialloc.

The new development, which was supported by the Victorian Government, provides two netball courts alongside the football facilities at the reserve, enabling the football/netball club’s teams to all compete at the same home venue on match day.

This is the fourth netball/football facility installation within the City of Kingston, with courts opened alongside football ovals at Chelsea Recreation Reserve and Bonbeach Sports Reserve in 2018, and the Regents Park Reserve in Aspendale in 2020.

Dales Park in Clayton South also had eight courts rebuilt and an additional warm up court is planned to be constructed later in the year. Preliminary investigations are also underway for a fifth netball facility at the Roy Dore Recreation Reserve in Carrum.

Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said the Council knows that participation rates among women and girls remain lower than males within the community sport and recreation club setting.

“Providing facilities that not only cater to but encourage female involvement will go a long way to delivering more gender equitable sporting environments,” said Cr Staikos.

The local sports clubs are also thrilled with the new developments and have expressed their excitement at the prospect of increased participation rates within both sports, as families are able to come together in the one venue.

STATION PROVES A GREAT PLATFORM FOR NEW BUSINESSES Start-ups, community groups, or individuals looking for a space to work away from home are being encouraged to set up at a newly opened Central Gold fields Co-Working Space at the Maryborough Railway Station.

The redeveloped high-tech space comes equipped with a meeting table, high speed internet, printing/photocopying/scanning, 3D printing, video conferencing and a kitchenette.

The Council has also contributed $67,500 to the project and the Committee for Maryborough have made an in-kind contribution of $10,000 for mentoring of start-ups/small businesses by experienced business operators who are Committee for Maryborough members.

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LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

COUNCILS LEADING THE CHARGE IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE UPTAKE When it comes to cutting emissions, many Councils are already embracing new technology. It’s an exciting time for electric vehicles in Australia, with more charging stations and a larger range of models.

Moreland Council’s newest public electric vehicle charging

saving approximately 2.5 tonnes of greenhouse emissions each

hub in Brunswick is attracting the highest number of charge

year and improving air quality where the cars are being used.

sessions per month of any charging station in Australia.

Meanwhile, at Glen Eira, the Council’s fleet of electric vehicles

The new charging hub, which opened in May 2020, brings

continues to grow. A charging station at Glen Eira Town Hall

Moreland’s total tally of public electric vehicle chargers to 16.

uses renewable energy from the building’s solar panels.

Moreland has the highest number of free-to-use public EV chargers owned and operated by Council of any municipality in Victoria. All electricity used to charge vehicles is renewable, sourced from the Crowlands Wind Farm.

The popularity of electric vehicles in Moreland is rapidly growing. In 2018, the Council’s network of public chargers saw less than 10 charging sessions per month. March 2021

"Electrifying our fleet is just one way that we’ll meet our ambitious new target of zero net emissions for Council operations by 2025,” Glen Eira Mayor Cr Margaret Esakoff said.

There are now 28 electric vehicle passenger models in Australia. By the end of 2021 it’s expected another six models will be available.

saw 725 charging sessions across the network.

According to the Electric Vehicle Council, Australia could eliminate 6% of its total greenhouse gas emissions if everyone drove an EV operating on renewable energy.

ChargeFox, which partners with Moreland Council to manage the EV stations, confirmed that the Brunswick hub is the busiest hub in Australia by number of sessions per month.

Moreland Council’s Vehicle Policy sets out a zero-emissions procurement priority. Council added its first electric vehicle to its fleet in 2013. There are now 25 electric vehicles in the fleet, each

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COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ACCESSIBLE PLAY SPACE MAKES A SPLASH The City of Whittlesea’s much-anticipated all abilities play space in Mill Park has proved popular with people of all ages and abilities, who have flocked to the new park since it opened in February this year.

The water play area at Mill Park Recreation Reserve is a highlight with its accessible water play tables, shooting water jets, misting rings and manual water pumps.

Careful consideration was put into the design of the park, with multiple areas developed within the site to cater to different ages groups and abilities.

The junior play area, which opened in December 2018, is suitable for younger kids from babies up to the age of six.

A teen to young adult zone includes a full-sized basketball court while agility equipment will test and improve the skills and coordination of seniors. A quiet and sensory play area has also been created and will act as a retreat within the wider reserve.

The centrepiece of the park however is a towering 4.5 metre multi-level climbing tower featuring accessible ramps and bridges.

50

A double flying fox with an accessible seat, trampolines,

The all abilities play space is located on Morang Drive, Mill Park.

inclusive swings and slide, picnic and barbecue facilities,

The City of Whittlesea has invested $3.5 million into this project

toilets (including a Changing Places facility), shelters and lawn

and has received $1 million in funding from the Victorian

areas are perfect for enjoying all that the park has to offer.

Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

TOURIST PASSPORT CAMPAIGN 2021 Moira Shire Council is promoting local tourism by launching a campaign called the Local Tourist Passport to attract residents.

Moira Shire Council’s campaign began in May with a mailout of special offers sent to households. As Mayor Libro Mustica explains, the “passports entitle residents to special offers when they bring a full-fee paying visitor to participating attractions, experiences, accommodation, retail outlets and cafes throughout Moira Shire,” Cr Mustica said.

“The Passport initiative will run from May through to October and we hope this will (encourage local residents) to invite family and friends from outside the region to visit and together enjoy what Moira Shire has to offer.”

Cr Mustica said as a region offering attractive COVID safe experiences, the “visiting friends and relative market” was expected to play a significant role in regional recovery after a year of lockdowns. “This concept has been successful in other key tourist regions around Australia, and we look forward to championing it here in Moira Shire,” he said.

Experiences include:

CACTUS COUNTRY FREE entry for a local with each paying adult guest.

RICH GLEN FREE extra virgin olive oil soap with each $50 spend.

NUMURKAH CARAVAN PARK 2 nights’ cabin accommodation for 2 people at a discounted price.

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Moira shire residents will receive discounts with local tourism, hospitality and retail businesses when they bring full fee paying visitors between May and October.

Every mail box in Moira Shire will have a Tourist Passport delivered between 1-15 May 2021.

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

MORELAND TRIALLING A SHARED ZONE FOR SAFER AND BRIGHTER STREETS Moreland Council is trialling a shared zone in Albert and Victoria Streets, Brunswick East alongside Fleming Park, striding towards making walking and cycling safer in the COVID environment.

During the Victorian COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in

“We’re getting really constructive feedback from the

people using local walking tracks and cycling paths, alongside

community on this new shared zone, and where people

reduced public transport capacity, prompted the Council to

have concerns with the design, we are taking that on board

invest an additional $1.68 million in transport improvements

during the trial, so we can make adjustments or improvements

in the 20/21 budget.

before any permanent decisions are made.”

The shared zone seeks to encourage walking, improve access

The project is being delivered as a trial and using materials

to a local park and reduce traffic on residential streets, making

that can be modified or removed depending on the outcomes

the area safer to move through but still allowing vehicle access.

of the trial, which is expected to run up to two years until

A shared zone is an area that all road users can use, but where

March 2023.

vehicles and cyclists must give way to pedestrians.

A Council survey conducted in September 2020 during

Carla Gottgens, inspired by various sports played throughout

COVID-19 restrictions showed 45 per cent of respondents

the history of Fleming Park.

agreed their use of Council walking tracks and cycling paths would likely increase when restrictions eased.

The area has new speed humps to slow down traffic and pavement markings to distinguish them from the regular road.

Moreland Mayor, Annalivia Carli Hannan is encouraging the

Entry signs are provided on both sides of the road and include

community to provide feedback on the shared zone trial,

the regulatory 20km/h speed limit. The shared zone also

which was installed in March.

has new tree planters, bench seating and tables made from

“Creating walkable and bikeable neighbourhoods encourages

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The shared zone’s eye-catching design is by local artist

recycled wood.

healthy and active lifestyles, builds community connections,

A larger suite of pedestrian and cycling improvements being

promotes overall health and wellbeing in our community

pursued around Moreland includes new zebra crossings,

and supports local businesses through improved access to

pedestrian thresholds, separated bicycle lanes and cycling

local amenities. It’s also great for the environment and can

improvements, reduced speeds on residential streets, and

significantly reduce our carbon footprint,” said Cr Carli Hannan.

turn bans at key intersections on tram corridors.

Moreland Mayor, Cr Annalivia Carli Hannan at Moreland's new trial shared zone in Brunswick East.

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

KEEPING MIND, BODY AND SOUL ACTIVE IN SENIOR YEARS People aged 65 years and over have been busy keeping active in the Shire of Golden Plains. The “Active Body, Mind and Spirit” physical exercise program is held most weeks and includes walking the Skipton Rail Trail, yoga moves for bone health, meditation, chair exercises and stretching just to name a few.

It is all about connecting with people in the community

and Centres Association in collaboration with Musculoskeletal

and increasing people’s understanding of the many and varied

Australia and the University of Sydney with an Australian

benefits of having regular physical activity as part of their

Government Grant through Sports Australia’s ‘Move it AUS –

everyday lives, while also making new friends. The project

Better Ageing’ initiative.

operates through the Australian Neighbourhood Houses

MODERN MAKEOVER FOR MARYBOROUGH RAILWAY STATION INCLUDES BUSINESS HUB Built in 1890, Maryborough Railway Station is a fantastic reminder of days when train travel was king. The station has been recently transformed into a bustling small business hub and popular business, visitor and tourist hub, thanks to a $1.8 million investment from the State Government.

The second round of the fund’s program is due to open for applications from 16 June. Under this competitive round, local regional and rural councils will be invited to apply for grants.

Golden Plains Shire has moved its Maryborough Visitor Information Centre to the revamped station and opened its first co-working facility thanks to a further $50,000 investment from the Stronger Regional Communities Program.

The Regional Infrastructure Fund is part of the State Government’s flagship $156 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, helping businesses create more jobs in regional Victoria, supporting community projects and backing councils to build the infrastructure that locals and visitors need.

The fund is key to the Government’s $8 billion investment across regional and rural Victoria unveiled in the Victorian Budget 2020/21 to support communities to come back stronger than ever.

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REGIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS SUPPORT FUTURE FEMALE LEADERS

Tammy Smith

The State Government is backing women’s professional development with scholarships for three women from small rural councils to participate in LGPro leadership programs.

Clare Pepin

The Local Government Victoria scholarship is supporting Emerging Leaders Program participant Clare Pepin of Pyrenees Shire Council, Tammy Smith of Yarriambiak Shire Council and Lisa Letic of Golden Plains Shire Council, who are both undertaking Executive Leadership Program “This is part of LGPro’s commitment to provide professional development opportunities that are affordable and accessible for women from regional/ rural Councils,” said LGPro President Liana Thompson.

“We are so grateful to Local Government Minister Shaun Leane for continuing

Lisa Letic

to support women’s professional development, and LGPro,” she said.

EMERGING LEADERS GAIN VALUABLE INSIGHTS FROM THE MINISTER LGPro's Emerging Leaders program participants recently met with Local Government Minister Shaun Leane.

The political context session took on new meaning when they sat down with Mr Leane to discuss the key role Local Government plays in helping create jobs and supporting local economies as we recover from COVID-19. Mr Leane also highlighted the State Government's focus on gender equality and improving culture across Local Government.

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MEET THE PEOPLE TAKING THEIR PERFORMANCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL Say hello to the 2021 Executive Leadership Program participant group who began their journey with a few days together exploring the meaning of change, resilience and gender equality.

They also heard from Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner Niki Vincent. The Executive Leadership Program is designed exclusively to equip and support senior executives in Local Government, particularly Chief Executive Officers and Directors, to expand and develop their skills and knowledge to assist them to become confident and capable leaders in the sector. Thank you to Camms for their continued support.

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Dr Niki Vincent Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner What is your background?

I arrived in Australia the day after my 11th birthday on an assisted passage, costing £10 at the time (we were called £10 Poms). We settled in Adelaide. I had troubled teen years after experiencing sexual assault at the age of 12, and moved out of home at 15, working evenings part time at a café to put myself through Year 12. Although I married at 18, I knew I wanted to go on to further study. I started at university when I was age 26 – when I had four children, aged between zero and six, while working part time in our family business.

I graduated a few years later with a First-Class Honours Degree in Psychology, a University Medal and the Australian Psychological Society Prize for my thesis. I later completed Doctoral (PhD) research into adult (consciousness) development and leadership – and I received another University Medal, while also working as a full-time CEO. Throughout my career, I have worked in senior academic research roles in public health and international health areas.

I have established and led not-for-profit organisations in child protection and community leadership, and my most recent past role was as South Australia’s Commissioner for Equal Opportunity.

I commenced the role of the inaugural Victorian Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner on 19 October 2020.

You have a big job ahead of you, why take on the role? What motivates you?

I am passionate about human rights and equal opportunity.

My belief in this is a motivating force in my life – providing a sense of purpose and a basis for my ethical compass. I also love change and I love a big new challenge. My approach to my career has always been to think creatively about how my sense of purpose, energy, and drive, as well as my skills and experience in one area, stand me in good stead for making a real difference in each new area. I wouldn’t take any job where I didn’t feel that way.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I love spending time with family and friends hiking and camping, going to see films, visiting art galleries and museums, live music performances, quirky little shops and exploring my new city on foot. I also try to do yoga regularly – and I listen to a lot of audiobooks and Radio National podcasts.

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What AFL football team do you barrack for and why did you choose them?

I don’t follow the AFL Men’s game, but I became interested in footy through the AFLW. I was introduced to Carlton by three friends and colleagues – Patty Kinnersly, CEO of OurWatch, Kate Jenkins, federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner and David Gould, the founder of Carlton Pride.

Patty is a board member at Carlton, and Kate was previously on the board. I have great trust in these amazing women and their involvement with Carlton gave me a sense that the club is invested in gender equality and other social justice issues.

This was strengthened when I found out that my friend David had founded Carlton Pride – an LGBTIQ+ supporters group, and that the club was endorsing this and taking it seriously.

Tell us something about yourself that may surprise people.

Because I care about my professional appearance, people are often surprised to find out that I’m as comfortable in muddy hiking boots and no make-up, camping, hiking, kayaking, canyoning, paragliding and doing other outdoorsy and adventurous things. I’ve done lots of strenuous multi-day hikes in many different countries carrying a large pack with everything I need and camping in the bush, washing in a lake, river, or the sea for days in a row. There is nothing that restores me more than this!

The last book you read and did you enjoy it?

The last book I read was “Invisible Women” by Caroline Criado Perez. I’ve actually read it three times since I started this role.

It is fabulous. It won the Royal Society’s Science Book Prize in 2019 and is a Sunday Times best-seller. As it says on the cover it “…reveals how, in a world largely built for and by men, we are systematically ignoring half the population, often with disastrous consequences.”

I have recommended this book to literally thousands of people that I have spoken to during the hundreds of public speaking engagements that I have done since starting in this role. I am currently reading “Sex, Lies and Question Time” by Kate Ellis and feeling infuriated – but would also recommend it!

TACKLING WORKPLACE ISSUES HEAD ON Starting at Hume City Council as a certified gardener in 2006, Amanda Mizzi worked her way up to become Team Leader of Turf Management in February 2019. Being a woman in a male dominated industry can be difficult, Ms Mizzi says, “because you occasionally need to prove yourself more than a male counterpart.”

“Trying to break stereotypes is a major challenge as some

“A reputation as an inclusive employer will also demonstrate

people assume because you are female then you may not be

our positive Hume values that will enhance our reputation in

as capable as the men, especially when your job is physical,”

the recruitment marketplace.”

Ms Mizzi says.

As a result, Ms Mizzi won support to create a depot-based

After years witnessing what she believes was overt gender

committee looking at ways to improve workplace culture.

bias at the Council’s depot, she decided action was needed

It has been a career highlight, she says. “It started off as an idea

on gender assumptions. “If we have a morning tea or breakfast

and to see it take off into the committee is very rewarding.

it is left up to the females to do the ordering, setting up and

I can see more people talking about and acting on ways in

cleaning up. On more than one occasion after we have had a

which we can grow as a Council.

catch up, I have heard people say, ‘Okay ladies, time to clean up.’”

“I feel like one of the big reasons for this is that we are slowly

In 2019, Ms Mizzi joined Hume’s Gender Equity Committee

getting the balance right between work/home life. The issue of

and the seed of change was planted. Last year, while completing

gender equality is getting more recognition and employers are

Ignite for Outdoor Workers, she wrote a briefing note for Hume’s

slowly getting the balance right.

managers as she felt it was “time to get the depot heading in the right direction with a more open-minded, respectful culture that reflects the contemporary thinking of our organisation and is more representative of the diverse community that we serve.”

Not content with the situation, last year Ms Mizzi wrote a Gender Equity Briefing note so that people in senior roles could be made aware of the “different culture in a mainly

“I hope to be able to work towards a more inclusive/better cultured workplace by being a champion of the Gender Equity and Culture committees.”

Last year Ms Mizzi completed the LGPro Outdoor Workers Ignite program and working with a mentor inspired her to step up on the issue of gender equality.

outdoor workplace, and therefore change the way we do

“I learned a lot of ways to manage being a leader which

things. I feel that with positive changes we can become a

included ways to be more time efficient, ways to talk to staff

more inclusive workplace. One that is in line with our values.”

and ways to handle difficult conversations. As the program is

Her report went on to say that by “having a more diverse range of people at Hume we will benefit from the different points of view and approaches that come from different life experiences.

completed with people from other Councils it was beneficial to learn what other Councils do. It was great learning from my mentor Ingrid, she gave me the confidence to build on the leadership skills I already had.”

“Having an inclusive workplace is a powerful recruiting tool.

Female and non-binary millennials look for employers with a strong record on diversity, according to a 2015 report by PwC on The Female Millennial, with 85 per cent saying it was important to them.

I learned a lot of ways to manage being a leader.

Which included ways to be more time efficient, ways to talk to staff and ways to handle difficult conversations. As the program is completed with people from other Councils it was beneficial to learn what other Councils do. It was great learning from my mentor Ingrid, she gave me the confidence to build on the leadership skills I already had.

Amanda Mizzi has undertaken to change attitudes in her workplace.

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Thursday 31 March 2022 Melbourne Arts Centre BUILDING RESILIENT COMMUNITIES Explore the different ways Local Governments are reconnecting communities in the post pandemic environment in a full-day seminar including keynote speakers, concurrent interactive sessions and presentations. See how Councils are building community resilience so that our ageing population and those with a disability can continue to lead full and satisfying lives.

Hear from engaging experts in the provisional program including:

PROFESSOR ANGELINA RUSSO Global Centre for Modern Ageing Planning for Active Ageing and Wellbeing

The ecosystem that makes up the ageing well industries is on the cusp of true disruption.

We have the ability to develop solutions and capabilities for our ageing populations in ways that are relevant to local Councils while being globally significant. Join Professor Angelina Russo as she discusses the challenges ahead and how the Global Centre for Modern Ageing is seeking partners in their remit to create better futures for all.

LISA SMITH & JASON CLARKE Minds at Work Overcome Your Overwhelm

Every day brings more things to think about… and less time to think about them. Studies show that we’re so busy dealing with change that it’s seriously affecting our capacity to process the world around us, let alone decide what to do about it. Join Lisa and Jason to learn powerful techniques to free up your mind and explore their Seven Principles to create the kind of headspace you need for the important work you do.

GERARD MANSOUR

Commissioner for Senior Victorians / Ambassador for Elder Abuse Prevention Ageing Well in a Changing World

Delve into the findings from the Commissioner’s landmark report, Ageing well in a changing world, with detailed insight into the real-life experiences of senior Victorians in relation to their health, social wellbeing and independence, and priority areas for action. This will include key issues such as the impact of social isolation and loneliness on older people and the digital divide.

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JANICE CROSSWHITE OAM

Womensport / Recreation Victoria / International Association for Physical Education and Sport for Girls and Women Janice will provide her personal perspective on how she has remained resilient throughout her life despite challenges she has faced on both a professional and personal level. She will also share her advice and strategies for ageing well into the future.

Angelina Russo

…and many more

THE AWARDS Network with your peers over pre-dinner drinks and a three-course meal with wonderful entertainment provided. Enjoy catching up with colleagues and celebrate the great work of our sector, award finalists and the winner announced live.

Your special guest speaker:

THE HON DR KAY PATTERSON Age Discrimination Commissioner

Dr Patterson will provide her perspective on how Local Government can combat ageism including strategies to support older women at risk of homelessness, combat social isolation which is a risk factor for elder abuse, and foster intergenerational relationships in the community, and as employers, through supporting multigenerational teams.

For more details, click here

SEMINAR & AWARDS MAJOR SPONSOR

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES JULY – DECEMBER 2021 CONFERENCES/SEMINARS Customer Experience Conference

MORE INFO

Thursday 26 and Friday 27 August

This conference is held biennially for staff working across departments in Councils that interact with customers and play a role in delivering customer experiences.

Active Ageing & Wellbeing Seminar and Awards Dinner

Thursday 31 March 2022

A one day seminar and awards dinner staff working in Aged & Disability and across areas in Councils with a focus on active ageing and improving health outcomes for the community.

Corporate Planners Network Conference

Friday 25 February 2022

A one day conference for managers and practitioners who work in the areas of corporate, community and social planning as well as consultation and research, communication and governance.

Wednesday 1 June – Thursday 2 June 2022

The LGPro Annual Conference is the largest specialist conference for people working in the sector.

2022 Annual Conference

FORUMS Women’s Professional Development Forum

Director Forums

CEO Forum

MORE INFO Thursday 25 November

The forum addresses the issues, opportunities and challenges facing women in the sector.

Thursday 22 July

A forum for Directors/General Managers from Councils across Victoria to come together to collaborate, network and participate in professional development opportunities.

Three times a year, dates to be confirmed

The Forums to allow CEOs across the sector to collaborate together and develop solutions to issues facing LG. The forums also provide ongoing professional development and networking opportunities for senior executives in the sector.

AWARDS

MORE INFO

Customer Impact Award

Nominations now closed, judging in progress

This biennial award recognises an individual or team that has assisted to deliver improved customer experiences.

Active Ageing & Wellbeing Awards

Nominations now closed, judging in progress

These awards recognise individuals and teams who have made a significant contribution to active ageing and wellbeing in the sector.

Nominations close Monday 6 September

Two categories offered this year that are open to teams and individuals working in Victorian Local Government Community Planning sector with a focus on initiatives that demonstrate excellence.

Nominations close Monday 18 October

Celebrating the success of individuals and teams working in Local Government in Victoria.

The winners will be announced at the 2022 LGPro Annual Conference Dinner in February.

Nominations now closed

The 2020 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award winner will be announced alongside the 2021 winner due to the dinner not taking place last year as a result of the pandemic.

Winning recipients will receive a $10,000 scholarship each for further study or research.

Corporate Planners Network Awards

2022 Awards for Excellence

Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES Young Professionals Series

Dates to be confirmed

Events targeting, but not exclusive to Local Government professionals under 36, irrespective of their position, discipline, band, level and status.

Women’s Network Dinner

Thursday 25 November

Opportunity for women working in Local Government to meet.

Thursday 9 December

All members

End of Year member event and AGM 60

MORE INFO

LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CALENDAR

DEC 2021

NOV 2021

OCT 2021

SEP 2021

AUG 2021

JUL 2021

PROGRAM

JUN 2021

JULY – DECEMBER 2021

MORE INFO

LEADERSHIP SUITE

Ignite

Ignite for Outdoor Workers

Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) Nominations for 2022 Program open

Executive Leadership Program (XLP)

WEBINAR SERIES

Nominations for 2022 Program open

Webinar Streams: The Risky Suite, Leadership Springboard, New Democracy, Tear Down the Walls, Without Borders and Trailblazer

SPECIALISED PROGRAMS

Induction to Local Government

Writing for Influence in Local Government

FUTURE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERIES

Core Financial Skills

Workforce Planning

Gender Equity

Topics to be announced

Connect with us at

LGProVIC LGPRO PROFILE WINTER 2021

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