She was presented with the award by WA Governor Kerry Sanderson. Mrs Blair hopes more women enter local government.
“In 1951 just 1 per cent of women were employed in local government,’’ she said.
“Sixty four years later, there are only 30.76 per cent women on councils, 20 per cent senior managers and 5 per cent chief executives.
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READ NOW“In 2009, local government in every state agreed to commit to a goal of 40 per cent women councillors, 35 per cent mayors and presidents, and 30 per cent senior managers by 2020.
“There’s only five years left in which to do that.”
City councillor Caroline Knight said Mrs Blair’s passion for local government and especially women’s involvement was inspirational.
“I feel privileged to have been helped by her in my role as a councillor,’’ she said.
“Local government plays an important role in helping to create great communities and the recognition of Marion’s contribution with an OAM is testament to the significant contribution she has made to our community.”