FOR THE LAST decade Helen Tickle and Juanita Wilson have been the only women with a seat at the table at Tamworth Regional Council.
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A year out from elections, Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock was a councillor for 17 years and wants to push more women to stand and reflect the communities they represent.
There are unique challenges women face, Cr Tickle said, especially those who come from households with more traditional gender roles.
"Very few women have actually stood, I think in the past it might have been a lack of confidence or the perception women didn't have time," she said.
"Women are increasingly taking on leadership and management roles, taking a leading role on the farm or in agriculture - a generation ago that didn't happen.
"I think in any organisation or government it's important to have a gender, age and experience mix."
A new state government campaign aims to encourage more women to stand in the 2021 local council elections, after they were postponed due to COVID-19.
Data shows women represent less than one third of all councillors and mayors who serve on the 128 councils in NSW.
When Cr Wilson started at Tamworth Regional Council, she had four children and a full-time job.
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She said accepting the role is an honour, but also a big commitment.
"There is rarely a day where I spend no time on some element of council," she said.
"Prioritising time is a major issue for many women with their careers and families already commanding their time, adding a further element can be challenging.
"Tamworth has many inspiring women who would be valuable in this role and represent the region very capably, I would love to see them stand."
No formal qualifications are needed to stand for a position on local council.
Training, support, fees and expenses are provided to anyone who is elected, Ms Hancock said, who feels women have plenty to contribute to their communities.
"As a former councillor for 17 years, I know only too well the tremendous contribution women are making in our State's 128 councils and their local communities," she said.
Candidate nominations open from July 26, next year.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
