“As patron of the empowering women network, I’m encouraging local women to stand for the eleven new wards in the City of Greater Geelong’s council elections in October.

“Women bring unique perspectives and invaluable experiences to the table and their participation in local elections is not just beneficial, it is essential for a truly representative democracy.

“Over recent years, the voices and experiences of women have helped change public perception and importantly, policies that provide better outcomes, not just for women but for our society.

“And under the Albanese Government, the voices and experiences of women are changing public policy.

“You can see, across every portfolio, this has made a difference. The experience and perspective of women is driving our actions with a record $3.4 billion to help end family, domestic and sexual violence.

“We have also expanded paid parental leave to 26 weeks, increased the cheaper childcare subsidy, and the gender pay gap is now at a record low, with the participation rate of women in work reaching a historic high.”