2010 was designated the Year of Women in Local Government.
Although women represent just over 50 per cent of the population they are underrepresented at the local government level.
At the last round of local government elections, women accounted for just 32% of all candidates and were elected to 30% of positions. Even fewer (24%) mayoral candidates were women but almost all were elected. Women account for a higher proportion of staff positions (46%) but this falls as the management level rises. Only 11% of council chief executives are women.
ALGA produced a booklet in 2010 to encourage greater participation of women in political life in all levels of government. The publication tells the stories of outstanding women, to inspire other women to follow in their footsteps.
The Governor-General, Her Excellency Quentin Bryce, AC, lent her support by contributing the Foreword to the book.