Councillor Pam Kensit leads the way in local government

Cr Kensit, an author of six books, is in her first term in local government. “The rewards of this position far outweigh the pitfalls,” she says.

She lists her major achievements as further education and her children, and the publication of those six books.

She nominated for a seat on the council because she believes there should be a voice for all sectors of the community. She is ardent about transparency, civic engagement, and consultation, and an advocate for rural health.

“I believe I bring to the table some robust views on community issues and I do not always get my way, but we work within a democracy," Cr Kensit said.

“At our introductory meeting of new councillors in 2016 it was made clear that I expected to be treated as an equal.

"I have enjoyed the greatest respect and courtesy by fellow councillors.”

Cr Kensit moved to the Upper Lachlan Shire in the 1990s.

“I grew up in an era of massive social reform in Ireland where people power changed lives for the better," she said.

“I was involved in the movement for radical transformations in education and sexual health while at university in Dublin in the early 1980s.

“I learned early in life how to stand up for myself and my convictions and how to pick my battles."

The peak body of general and special purpose councils, Local Government NSW, has introduced a number of initiatives that support women in the sector.

Some of these include its Capability Framework, a women’s development program, and endorsement of the '5050 Vision - Councils for Gender Equity Program'.

Next month, Cr Kensit will attend the Australian Local Government Women’s Association NSW Branch annual conference in Liverpool (Sydney).

Increasing numbers of women are standing for election to councils, but more are needed to ensure true representation of communities.

Local Government NSW stats reveal 29.5 per cent of elected councillors are women.