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Local government elections get an A for effort but fall short on diversity

Local Government Minister David Templeman has expressed dismay about the lack of respect and online bullying by candidates and community members during the 2017 local government elections.

Despite a record number of candidates putting themselves forward for election, and a significant increase in the number of postal votes to be returned to date, female representation remains low.

“While I am absolutely delighted to see that we have a record number of candidates nominating for election and a significant increase in the number of postal votes received to date, I am dismayed about the reports of bullying and the underrepresentation of women,” said Templeman.

“I call on candidates and community members to show more respect in the way in which they are behaving, as trolling and negativity does not attract quality and diverse candidates.

“If we want a vibrant, diverse and quality local government sector, we must ensure that people feel safe, respected and valued when they put themselves forward.”

Of the 1,388 candidates, just 481, or just under one third, are female. Of the 46 candidates for popularly elected mayor or president, a mere seven are women.