Cr Dodds asked how “the issues of issues of bullying and harassment, the number one issue identified by women at this year's Australian Local Government Women's Conference in Gundagai,” could be better addressed. Her comments and question followed discussion on gender and diversity in government raised by presenter and media commentator Virginia Haussegger.

“I know the burning issue is about how to get more women into local government but it can be a difficult place and at worst, a toxic environment in councils across the country,” Cr Dodds said.

“You are not protected by the same workplace protections as a permanent employee. As a councillor you can only resort to a code of conduct. I think it is much safer if the workplace carries the responsibility. I think we can do a lot better,” Cr Dodds said.

“We’re told to value diversity but by the way if you don’t like the environment toughen up princess. At the moment there’s no protection.”

She said that that her comments were followed by robust applause indicating many women in local government were keen to see this behaviour change.

“A lot of women came up to me afterwards, quietly, and told me I was very courageous in bringing the subject up.

“We work hard, for little money and no superannuation to perform a vital community service. And we deserve protections under law afforded people in all other workplaces. I want to see the policies change at a higher level,” Cr Dodds said.