THE Rudd Government’s strategy to encourage more women into local government is on the wrong track, according to the two independent women councillors of Parramatta and Holroyd.

Lorraine Wearne, of Parramatta, and Holroyd’s Yvette Whitfield scoffed at the Rudd plan of funding programs and studies, which they say will do little to encourage women onto councils.

Both councillors have seen the number of women on their councils halve between the last two local government elections. The only other women on the councils are from the Labor Party – Julia Finn at Parramatta and Pam Colman at Holroyd. The two councils each had four women councillors in the previous term.

Cr Wearne said the major parties did not preselect enough women and independent candidates found it difficult to fund their own campaigns.

Both she and Cr Whitfield said they would find it difficult to serve if they did not have supportive husbands – to help around the house as well as back them up financially. Cr Wearne runs her legal business from home and Cr Whitfield does not work.

“For younger women, with raising a family, being on council would be too difficult but the government should be looking at ways to give council incentives to help women councillors – whether that be child-minding or whatever,” Cr Wearne said.

“There also should be a better tax incentive. At the moment, you can claim only $1500 for the cost of your campaign,” Cr Wearne said.

Both councillors agreed an education program to show women what was involved in serving on council was essential. Targeting women who were already involved in their children’s schools and other community groups would also help.

Mr Rudd announced funding of almost $500,000 for “a range of projects”, including $250,000 to the Australian Local Government Women’s Association for a three-year program to audit councils on the status and role of women in leadership roles.