A MARIBYRNONG councillor wants to see more women become involved in local government.
Females make up less than a third of Victoria’s 616 councillors, a figure Cr Catherine Cumming finds disappointing.
After 15 years on Maribyrnong Council, the mother of five children, aged up to 12, says women should not be daunted by the prospect of becoming involved.
Cr Cumming, 39, said the perspective of women on the council helped broaden the range of issues it tackled.
“Having young children, as nearly all of the current councillors do, means knowing what their needs are.”
She pointed to a renewed focus on improving parks and open spaces throughout Maribyrnong and the redevelopment of Whitten Oval as key examples of a broader focus.
Cr Cumming was presented with a 15-year service award at least week’s Municipal Association of Victoria awards. Out of more than 50 recipients only two were women.
“This kind of community role is very rewarding. You might not realise it from watching council meetings, but it is enjoyable. You get to achieve things you can be proud of.”
The independent councillor said it would also be positive to see the diversity of the Maribyrnong community reflected in the make-up of the council.
“It’s just a shame a lot of young people are too worried about running against the parties. But I first came to council at 25 and always felt supported by the council managers and officers.”
Fellow councillor Dina Lynch is stepping down after seven years, the single mother explaining family pressures as behind her decision.
— Benjamin Millar
