Too young – and a woman

TANIA Baxter’s been told she’s “too young and a woman” when revealing her plans to run for Cardinia Shire Council.
But the 42-year-old Beaconsfield mother of two and Ranges Ward candidate said it was “these exact characteristics that are lacking in council today”.
“As it stands today there are no women on council and yet over half of Cardinia’s population is female,” she said.
“This is not representative of the community and I believe needs to be changed.
“This is not about women against men, or that women are better, it is about the variety of perspective that females bring to the table and sharing those ideas to make a better Cardinia.”
Ms Baxter has a bachelor’s degree in educational psychology and a graduate diploma in special education and has volunteered for various community groups for more than 20 years.
She grew up in the foothills and has spent her adult life in the growth areas.
“I would like to think I have a good understanding of both lifestyles, and affection for each,” she said.
Ms Baxter was on her high school student representative council, her university student union, and is the Beaconsfield Progress Association secretary – she’s passionate about advocating for her community.
“Not everyone is able to communicate their needs to others,” she said.
“Leaders in the community must stand up for the majority.”