Join the VLGA for an update from our Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Project Partners on this important research project.

This project aims to investigate the chronic under representation of women in Australian politics through a local government lens. It expects to generate new knowledge about barriers to female political representation, their political performance and pathways to higher tiers of elected office. By following men and women councillors across an election cycle, this research seeks to robustly compare and measure women's experiences of local politics to develop a new framework to map and address obstacles preventing political equity. Expected outcomes include theoretical advances and a 'best practice' guide for achieving parity. This should provide significant public benefits by advancing women's participation across all levels of government.

Panel includes:

• Professor Dr Andrea Carson, La Trobe University
• Professor Leah Ruppanner, University of Melbourne
• Dr Gosia Mikolajczak, University of Melbourne/ANU
• Kathryn Arndt, CEO, VLGA