Victoria’s water sector boards now have greater diversity than ever before with more representation from Aboriginal Victorians, women and people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Minister for Water Lisa Neville said the new appointments to Victoria’s water corporation and Catchment Management Authority (CMA) boards were recommended and assessed by an independent panel.
The increased diversity is a direct result of the Andrews Labor Government’s efforts to seek applications from those who have traditionally been under-represented – ensuring our water sector authorities reflect the communities they represent.
There has been a particular focus on recruiting people with skills and expertise in climate change, renewable energy, community engagement, regional development, and recycled and stormwater management.
There has been a 100 per cent increase in Aboriginal Victorians on our water sector boards – a huge achievement considering there was no Aboriginal representation before 2015.
Women now hold 53 per cent of Victorian water corporation board positions, reflecting the Labor Government’s commitment to gender equality on all government boards. On Victoria’s CMA boards, 60 per cent of positions are now held by women.
Local representation on water boards has also increased – boosting regional expertise and better representing the views of the communities, who have a better understanding of issues and opportunities in their regions.
Following these appointments:
- 18 out of 29 CMA and water board chairs are women, up from seven prior to 2015
- 12 Aboriginal Victorians have been appointed to CMA and water corporation roles - up from zero before 2015, and six in 2015
- Most of the board appointees were born in Australia, however there are appointments from the UK, the US, New Zealand, Malaysia, Egypt, Democratic Republic of Congo and Bulgaria.
Out of the 19 water corporations and 10 CMAs, there are 120 new and returning board members who will commence on 1 October for either a two or four-year term.
Board directors are appointed through a merit-based process that also ensures a balance between renewal of the board and retention of corporate knowledge.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“I’m proud of the diversity of Victoria’s water and catchment boards – with more than half of leadership roles held by women, more Aboriginal Victorians and Traditional Owner experience, and greater local representation.”
“These appointments bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in environmental management, sustainable water management, economics and public administration.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020