Media Release - 9 October 2009  A Strong Vision for Women in Local Government National President of the Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) Ms Darriea Turley has applauded the Rudd government for their commitment to women in local government. The Rudd Labor Government has announced today, that its will provide $490,000 for a range of projects to help improve the participation of women in the nation's Local Government councils and shires. The announcement was made at today's meeting of the Local Government and Planning Ministers' Council in Darwin. The Government is funding these projects as part of their commitment to the 2010 Year of Women in Local Government. Data shows that less than 30 per cent of Councillors are women; 20 per cent of senior management roles are filled by women; and only 7 per cent of council Chief Executive Officers are women. This disparity is unacceptable and the Government is working with the sector to lift the participation of women. As part of their commitment, the government is funding $250,000 for a three-year 50:50 Vision: Councils for Gender Equity program to be conducted by the Australian Local Government Women's Association. Ms Turley said 'this program will audit councils and shires to determine the status and role of women in leadership roles as well as their participation in the workplace. The program will also accredit councils and shires as well as establish an awards program to recognise excellence'. Through this funding, the Government is taking concrete steps to identify and address the barriers that are preventing more women from becoming involved in the local government sector.  'The ALGWA has branches in every State and the Northern Territory and will be active participants in the project, I look forward to working closely with the Rudd Government in implementing this national program.' Ms Turley said. Contact: Ms Darriea Turley National President, Ph: 0429 848 486 Ms Janet Davidson Vice President, Ph: 0417 974 936