Our Women in Community Life Advisory Committee (WiCLAC) was established in 2013 to advise Council on matters relating to women's participation, representation and leadership in community life.
Breadcrumb
Women in Community Life Advisory Committee

Mission
Equality, inclusion and respect for women in Greater Geelong.
Purpose
The purpose of the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee (WiCLAC) is to provide advice to Council on matters relating to the participation, representation, leadership, recognition, safety, and wellbeing of women in the City of Greater Geelong, to contribute to the advancement of gender equity in the Geelong community.
The committee aims to represent the interests and rights of women from all backgrounds in Geelong. This includes everyone who identifies as a woman, including cis and trans women.
Committee Members
Aleta is a gender equality and human rights specialist with over 20 years’ experience across international organisations, government, business and community sectors. Based in Geelong, she has worked with UN Women, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, Cotton On Group, and is currently CEO of the Centre for Sustainability. A journalist with Michael West Media and researcher at the University of Melbourne, Aleta brings expertise in policy, inclusion and community engagement. She is passionate about ensuring diverse women’s voices are represented in decision-making and creating opportunities for women to lead and drive positive change in Greater Geelong.
Kirstie is passionate about creating inclusive and connected communities where women and girls can thrive. As a Children’s and Youth Services Librarian and former high school teacher, she has extensive experience supporting families, young people and diverse community groups. She is committed to lifelong learning, wellbeing and equitable access to opportunities, and values collaboration and community connection. Through her work and community involvement, Kirstie advocates for inclusive programs and services that encourage participation, build confidence and support positive outcomes for women, children and families across Greater Geelong.
Lisa is passionate about supporting women’s leadership, participation and wellbeing across the Greater Geelong community. Following a career in local government, including leading communications and engagement at Golden Plains Shire Council, Lisa brings extensive experience in governance, stakeholder engagement and community collaboration. She is committed to fostering opportunities for women to thrive and is a strong advocate for mentoring and leadership development. Lisa values the role women play in shaping strong communities and is dedicated to ensuring women’s voices contribute to decision-making and positive community outcomes.
Lyndie is a passionate advocate for the wellbeing of children, young people and families, with more than 30 years' experience in mental health, community services and volunteer leadership. Through her professional work and extensive community involvement, including leadership roles with Royal Children’s Hospital, Barwon Health, Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, the Lighthouse Foundation and Rainbow Riders, Lyndie has helped create opportunities for people to feel connected, supported and empowered. She was also inducted into the Victorian Honor Roll of Women in 2024 in recognition of her contributions. Lyndie is committed to strengthening inclusive communities and ensuring women’s experiences and perspectives help shape positive change across Greater Geelong.
Melonie is an experienced social services leader and advocate for women’s safety, wellbeing and inclusion. Representing Destination Accessible on the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee, she brings expertise in disability services, family violence prevention and community leadership. A long-term Geelong resident and mother of three daughters, Melonie has worked across child protection, family services and violence prevention, supporting vulnerable individuals and families. She is passionate about promoting gender equity and creating opportunities for women and girls to be heard, supported and empowered across Greater Geelong.
Michelle is a researcher, educator and community advocate dedicated to advancing opportunities for women. With a background in gender research, education and policy analysis, she brings extensive experience in leadership, collaboration and community engagement. Michelle is passionate about supporting women’s participation and ensuring barriers to equality are identified and addressed. She values listening to diverse perspectives and creating opportunities for people to connect and contribute. Through her professional and community work, Michelle is committed to helping build a more inclusive and equitable future for women across Greater Geelong.
Nicole is a passionate advocate for gender equality and women’s leadership, with extensive experience in community advocacy and social change. Representing the Zonta Club of Geelong on the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee, Nicole brings a strong background in initiatives that support women’s safety, education, representation and participation in decision-making. Through leadership roles with Zonta Club of Geelong, Zonta Australia and membership with the National Council of Women, she has championed reforms and programs that empower women and girls. Nicole is committed to amplifying women’s voices and helping create safe, inclusive and equitable communities across Greater Geelong.
Rachel is a Geelong local, communications professional and long-standing member of the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee. She is passionate about advancing gender equity, fostering inclusive communities and ensuring women’s voices are represented in decision-making. Rachel brings valuable insight from her professional experience, community involvement and lived experience of disability. Through her contributions to local research, planning and community initiatives, she has supported work that promotes women’s wellbeing and participation. Rachel is committed to helping Greater Geelong remain a welcoming and thriving place for women and their families.
Rebecca is passionate about advancing gender equality and creating inclusive communities where women can thrive. A Geelong resident and mother, she brings experience in equity, diversity and inclusion advocacy through her involvement in the construction industry and professional networks dedicated to supporting women’s leadership and participation. Rebecca is committed to fostering environments where women feel represented, supported and empowered to achieve their goals. Drawing on her lived experience, community involvement and professional networks, she advocates for opportunities that strengthen connection, wellbeing and participation for women across Greater Geelong.
Rose is a passionate advocate for inclusive, person-centred communities where all women feel safe, respected and empowered to participate. A counsellor, mother of three and owner of a Geelong holistic health clinic for more than 35 years, Rose brings extensive experience supporting individuals and families through a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach. Her culturally diverse background and community leadership experience have strengthened her commitment to equity and inclusion. Rose is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and helping create positive outcomes that support the wellbeing, participation and leadership of women across Greater Geelong.
Tonia is a town planner and community-minded Geelong resident who is passionate about promoting inclusion, safety and opportunities for women. She brings a people-focused perspective and values listening to community experiences to help inform positive change. Through her professional background in planning and her active involvement in local community activities, Tonia understands the importance of creating places and communities where people feel connected and supported. She is committed to fostering collaboration, encouraging diverse perspectives and helping create a Greater Geelong where women can participate fully in community life.