Despite ongoing discussions surrounding the need for greater diversity within Australian politics, young women reportedly remain reluctant to engage at various levels due to primary concerns regarding inequality and misogyny. A recent study conducted by Monash University revealed that women were reluctant about becoming a Member of Parliament (MP) due to stereotypes surrounding the male-dominated profession, and subsequent self-doubt in their ability to execute the role and associated tasks. This study utilised information gathered from 47 Queensland-based 28 to 29-year-olds in the weeks leading up to the May 2022 election. The 27 females and 20 males were questioned about their views on Australian politics, particularly regarding representation and ambitions among young women. Alleged sexual misconduct within parliament leading up to elections was a frontrunner regarding safety concerns for women, and subsequent disinterest in engaging. A particularly troubling revelation was that whilst participants expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of play and subsequent avoidance, there was no desire to actively stand up for correcting such concerns to create an equal playing field. As such, Head of Politics and International Relations at Monash University, Dr Zareh Ghazarian, concluded that gender-based inequality of opportunity continues to decrease the drive for young women to enter politics. “This highlights a deeply unhealthy element in Australian politics, whereby individuals, especially women, are choosing not to participate in democratic processes. It is critical that greater efforts be made to advance the political ambitions of women to stand for election to the Australian Parliament,” said Dr Ghazarian. Ultimately, the research cemented what many already assume: more must be done to create a safe environment which demonstrates equality to entice women to enter the profession with longevity. Promoting confidence and opportunities for active participation is vital, alongside challenging negative attitudes and stigmas regarding diverse political involvement. Monash University suggests this shift may be achieved through school-based education programs and empowering advocacy projects. “Without addressing these entrenched issues, women’s politics under-representation and an exclusionary masculine culture will continue to mar young people’s political ambitions and the practical operation of Australia’s liberal democracy,” says Dr Ghazarian. It is important to recognise that many males working within the sector encouragingly mirror Dr Ghazarian’s sentiments regarding the crucial role of women in politics, including Director of Places and Strategy at Locale Learning, Steve Thompson. “A representative spread of people from all walks of life is critical. This is particularly the case at the local council level,” says Thompson. “Young women bring practical, real-life experiences that directly relate to key service areas such as open spaces, community facilities and services that are not always experienced in the same way as men.” According to Women for Election, women remain under-represented in every level of Australian government, considering 37 percent of across State and Territory assemblies are female, 44 percent within Federal Parliament and 38 percent within councils nationally. Founder of Locale Learning, Emma Broomfield, believes change is happening but slowly. “In the last local government elections in New South Wales (NSW), women accounted for 39.5 percent of all councillors. This was an 8.5 percent jump on the proportion of women elected in 2016/17. Whilst this was a positive shift in the right direction, there is still some way to go to reach gender parity in representation within local government in NSW,” she says. Broomfield also identified common barriers experienced by women which prevent gender parity, such as feeling unqualified, difficulties juggling family and work commitments, lack of paid parental leave, and investment of time and money. Additionally, perceived culture of council conduct remains a primary concern, with female candidates and elected councillors reportedly experiencing more negative behaviour compared to male colleagues. “This includes receiving offensive emails, texts or social media posts, and being subject to demeaning, rude or derogatory remarks about their gender during election,” Broomfield elaborates. “In local government, like other levels of government, there has been a long-standing belief that some behaviour is excusable because it is ‘politics’. However, there is growing recognition that this approach is not consistent with the expectations of modern workplaces, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to dysfunctional and toxic cultures.” Broomfield urges women to not allow political dreams to be thwarted by common concerns, and maintain awareness of the vast benefits of embarking on leadership roles such as a local councillor. “This includes being a part of creating change and having a positive impact on your local community. Especially on issues that directly affect women, young women and girls, parents and families that may otherwise have an underrepresented or skewed representation,” she encourages. “There are also opportunities to learn new skills and acknowledge it can be a stepping stone to a future political career at a state or federal level.” Broomfield, however, is not just about rallying for women to enter politics, but also offers education and guidance throughout their journey. Women considering running for civic office can gain immense clarity from Locale Learning’s free of charge 7-day candidate launchpad challenge. Following that, coaching for appointed councillors to thrive in their role is also available. With the next local government election in NSW taking place on 14 September 2024, opportunity awaits to help curb the underrepresentation of young women in politics. For localised information, Kiama Council is hosting a pre-election candidate information session on 14 May 2024. Perhaps you or someone you know could be part of creating the change?
