The City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) unveiled its Gender Equity Action Plan this week, which seeks to improve outcomes for women and gender diverse people.
The plan has been developed in response to the Victorian Government’s Gender Equality Act 2020, the first legislation of its kind in Australia, which requires local government, the public sector and universities to take positive action towards achieving workplace gender equality.
CoGG’s action plan is intended to drive policy-making and the delivery of programs and services that will improve representation of women, gender non-binary people and people of all genders, including on Council itself, which aims for 50/50 representation by 2025.
Cr Sarah Mansfield, chair of the Diversity, Inclusion and LGBTIQ+ portfolio, said the plan was an exciting and innovative initiative that would have a real impact on representation in the community.
“This really is groundbreaking, and we are entering a new era with the adoption of this framework,” Cr Mansfield said.
“Applying a gender inclusive lens means we will be able to transform the way we work with each other.
“It’s exciting to be a part of a community that strives to ensure that every person has the same access to programs, services and particularly leadership opportunities.”
Greater Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy also welcomed the adoption of the plan.
“With Victoria being the first state in Australia to have legislation of this nature, it’s wonderful to think that we are at the forefront of creating a more inclusive and equitable community,” Mayor Murrihy said.
“It’s vital that everyone across the City has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life, and the adoption of the Gender Equality Action Plan can play a part in making that a reality.”
The Gender Equality Action Plan can be viewed on the City’s webpage at www.geelongaustralia.com.au.
