ACELG has compiled Australia's first, extensive profile of the local government workforce. The report confirms that local government is an Australian powerhouse, punching above its weight in terms of its contribution to the nation's economy and social fabric, particularly in regional, rural and remote Australia.
The purpose of the report Profile of the Local Government Workforce is to support the implementation of the National Local Government Workforce Strategy prepared for ACELG by Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA).
"Australia's 556 local governments employ nearly 200,000 people in a diverse range of roles across the country. Together, Australia's local governments spend more than $30 billion annually," A/Prof Ryan said.
In a number of rural and remote Local Government Areas across Australia, local government is either the top, or one of the top, employers.
"The report also shows, however, that the local government workforce is ageing and there are too few women in senior positions.
"About one third of all councillors (30 per cent) and one quarter of mayors (23 per cent) are women. The proportion of women being elected to these positions is about equal to the proportion being nominated. This means that when women stand for election, they are successful and the real barrier is getting more women to stand in the first place," A/Prof Ryan.
ACELG will continue to undertake further research, in partnership with the local government sector, on the key issues raised by this report. Along with stakeholders, ACELG intends to play a leading role in response to key findings in this report and continue to implement the National Strategy through its research and program activities.