Geelong council has adopted a policy to support women and girls in local sport.
Currently women are two and half times more likely to feel unwelcome at sporting clubs.
The Fair Access Policy will help to identify and eliminate issues of gender inequality in sporting clubs.
Mayor Trent Sullivan says it’s an important move for the council.
“The new policy will pave the way to creating a sporting environment that is equitable and supportive for all,” he said.
“We know that playing sport is beneficial for women and girls in terms of their physical and mental health, confidence levels and community connection, however their participation rates are lower than men and boys.
“Our Fair Access Policy includes principles and approaches to address known barriers so that females have fair opportunity and equitable access to their local facilities.”
Members of the community are being asked to give their feedback on the policy.