Council’s Gender Equality Action Plan approved by Commissioner

Published on 02 November 2026

Colac Otway Shire Council’s 2026 Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) has been approved by the Commissioner for Gender Equality, marking the next stage in Council’s commitment to building a safe, fair, inclusive and flexible workplace.

The new plan builds on Council’s first GEAP and the progress made through initiatives including flexible work practices, improved access to parental leave, gender impact assessments and increased organisational awareness of gender equality.

It also responds to the findings of Council’s 2025 workplace gender audit and consultation with employees, employee representatives, relevant trade unions, and the Staff Consultative Group.

The audit showed positive progress in a number of areas. Women represented 61.3 per cent of Council’s workforce, up from 59.4 per cent in 2023, with increased representation in traditionally male-dominated occupational groups including technicians and trades, and machinery operators and drivers. Median base salary and total remuneration gender pay gaps were also reduced to zero, although the mean base salary gender pay gap increased from 7.5 per cent to 9.1 per cent, driven primarily by changes in leadership composition during the audit period.

The audit also identified areas where further progress is needed, including women’s representation in senior leadership, and increasing gender diversity in traditionally male and female dominated occupations.

Council’s General Manager Corporate Services Emma Lowes said the approval was an important milestone for Council.

“We are pleased to have our new Gender Equality Action Plan approved and to continue building on the foundations established through our first plan.

“The audit shows we have made progress in some areas, but it also gives us a clear picture of where we need to continue to improve.

“Our focus is on practical and achievable actions that provide equitable opportunities for our people and embed gender equality into the way we work,” Ms Lowes said.

The 2026 GEAP focuses on strengthening leadership pathways, recruitment and promotion practices, pay equity, flexible work and parental leave, education and awareness of family and domestic violence, and increasing participation in roles where genders have traditionally been under-represented.

Ms Lowes said Council’s commitment to gender equality benefits both its workforce and the broader community.

“Our people are central to the services we provide. By creating a workplace where everyone has equitable opportunities to participate, develop and contribute, we strengthen our organisation and our ability to serve the Colac Otway community.”