The pair are supporting a state government push to increase gender equity and diversity across the state’s 79 municipalities. 

The 2012 Victorian council elections saw a record number of female candidates and at least one female elected to every council for the first time.

But only 217 of the state’s 631 councillors are women, with only 14 women serving as a chief executive officer.

Warrnambool has never had a woman serve in the role, but has had three female mayors. 

With the next elections just over a year away, Cr Ermacora and Cr Gaston are planning a series of information sessions with the aim of giving women a chance to gain a picture of what life would be like if they were elected to council. 

Cr Ermacroa said the aim was to have at least three women on council after the 2016 election.

“There has never been three women on council at the one time in the city’s history,” she said. 

“Our plan is to try to get women who may be interested in standing to come along and learn what the role of a councillor is, what the time commitment is, how council works and the decision making process.” 

Cr Gaston said there was range of support mechanisms for councillors that are not always well known until they are elected. 

“For instance there are childcare and carers’ allowances available,” she said.  

“That is often a barrier many people, especially women, have to overcome if they stand. 

“The roles involves so much more than I thought it did, you get a great insight into all areas of the city, it’s not just roads, rates and rubbish.

“Seeking diversity for the council table can only be good for Warrnambool.”

Cr Ermacora said the sessions would not only be for women considering running, but for women supporting candidates and women interested in joining the council’s various advisory committees.

The first of the “relaxed” sessions is planned for later this year, with two more to follow in 2016.