Some people dream of a job that makes a difference. For Bonnie Coogan, that’s what she gets to do every day.
As the Preventing Violence Against Women Policy Officer at the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Bonnie helps local councils create safer, more inclusive and equitable communities across the state.
“My job is really about making things fair for everyone,” she explains. “I help workplaces and organisations put systems in place that make it normal and acceptable for everyone, no matter their gender, to have the same opportunities.”
Turning Passion Into Purpose
Bonnie always had an interest in fairness, social issues, and helping people. Working at MAV gave her the perfect opportunity to put those values into action.
MAV is the peak body for local government in Victoria, supporting all 79 councils across the state. From small rural towns to large metropolitan areas, Bonnie works with teams on policies and programs that promote gender equality and prevent violence against women.
“No two days are the same,” she says. “One day I might be helping a council plan a training session for staff, and the next I’m working with someone who’s helping a local sporting club make their facilities more welcoming and inclusive.”
That mix of collaboration, creativity and community impact is what keeps her inspired.
What Makes the Work Meaningful
For Bonnie, the best part of her job is the people.
“I’m really lucky to have amazing colleagues I can lean on when things get tough,” she says. “And I get to work with so many different people across Victoria who are doing incredible things in their communities. Hearing their stories and seeing their passion gives me so much hope.”
She admits that working in gender equity and violence prevention can sometimes be challenging, but it’s also deeply rewarding. “Even when people face pushback or resistance, the way they stay committed to creating change is amazing. It shows that progress is happening, even if it takes time.”
One of her proudest career moments so far? Meeting Grace Tame, 2021 Australian of the Year, at a conference she helped organise. “It was such a special experience,” she says. “Not only to meet her, but to be part of an event that created real conversations about equality and respect.”
Creating Change That Lasts
Bonnie knows that the work she does won’t change the world overnight, but she also knows that every small step matters.
“My job is about making a positive impact,” she says. “We look at what’s currently allowing inequality or discrimination to exist, and we figure out how to change it. Every conversation, every policy, every new idea is part of a bigger movement toward lasting change.”
Her ultimate goal? “To work myself out of a job,” she says with a smile. “Because that would mean things have improved so much that I’m no longer needed.”
Until then, Bonnie is committed to helping build communities across Victoria where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued, no matter who they are.
Get to Know the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV)
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) represents all local councils across the state, supporting them to create stronger, safer and more inclusive communities.
MAV provides training, resources and guidance to help councils promote gender equality, health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, and community safety.
By partnering with councils, community groups and industry leaders, MAV helps create meaningful, lasting change where it matters most – in the communities we all call home.
Inspired by Bonnie’s Story?
Careers that focus on equality and inclusion come in all shapes and sizes, from community services and education to law, health and local government. If you’re someone who values fairness, communication and helping others, there’s a place for you in this space. E
xplore organisations like MAV to see how purpose-driven work can create real change and shape stronger, safer communities for everyone.
