The Local Government Association of South Australia is calling on councils to nominate exceptional elected women for the 2023 Joy Baluch Award.
The award – which honours the late (Nancy) Joy Baluch AM, former LGA President and Mayor of Port Augusta – recognises outstanding female leaders currently serving as elected members of SA councils who demonstrate leadership, innovation and support the role of women in local government.
LGA President Dean Johnson said the Joy Baluch Award was a wonderful way to highlight the sector’s standout women each year.
“Women play a crucial role in local government, demonstrated by the number of female mayors and councillors currently serving across South Australia, and it’s important to acknowledge those who go above and beyond the call of duty,” Mayor Johnson said.
“Councils are the closest level of government to communities, delivering essential services, road infrastructure, sporting grounds, libraries, playgrounds and everything in between.
“Elected members work hard to support their communities, including through emergencies and natural disasters, and I’m delighted to have an Award which puts a spotlight on those female leaders who have inspired others and achieved outstanding outcomes.
“The Joy Baluch Award honours one of our sector’s fiercest female advocates and has a long list of worthy recipients since first being presented in 2014.
“I encourage councils and organisations to nominate mayors or councillors who they believe make a significant, positive impact on their communities.”
The Award will be judged on how the nominee has:
Achieved a significant outcome for council or a community in the last 12 months.
Contributed to council or community through innovation, leadership, collaboration and vision.
Inspired other women to become more involved in their council or community
Promoted the diverse perspectives of women in local government.
Nominations are open until February 23 and can be lodged by anyone representing a council or organisations that seek to support the advancement of women in local government.
