Women from right across northern Victoria will join International Women’s Day celebrations at Parliament House tomorrow, marking 100 years since women won the right to stand for the Victorian Parliament.
The milestone event will celebrate “extraordinary ordinary” women.
“Our community is full of extraordinary women doing amazing things,” Northern Victoria MP Gaelle Broad said.
“So often we see women whose achievements, leadership and contributions don’t get the recognition they deserve. This is a chance to celebrate the work they do to better the lives of people in their community, work and homes.”
Ms Broad said she was proud to be part of a dynamic group of new women MPs.
“The Nationals have a majority of women in this parliament, based on merit and not quotas.”
The new Nationals MPs include Kim O’Keefe (Shepparton), Annabelle Cleeland (Euroa), Jade Benham (Mildura) and Ms Broad. They join Emma Kealy (Lowan) and Melina Bath (Eastern Victoria Region).
“I am honoured to be part of a strong Nationals team, all are exceptional representatives, and strong local advocates, focused on the best outcomes for their local communities.” she said.
Ms Broad said the landmark Parliamentary Elections (Women Candidates) Act was passed in 1923, allowing women to stand for the Victorian Parliament.
“Since 1923, we’ve seen women from all walks of life shape our state through their commitment to service in public office.
“In 2023, women make up nearly half the parliamentarians across both our Houses. Over this time the women in our Parliament have been pivotal in strengthening our democracy, and have helped to build long lasting reforms that have improved the life of all Victorian women and girls.
“Women’s participation in politics continues to grow. Our women members today are from a range of backgrounds, and have held key positions in the Parliament, including Speaker, President and Premier.”
Ms Broad encouraged women to apply for the Pathway to Politics Program. Applications are now open. The program is a national, non-partisan initiative that aims to change the face of politics by equipping women with the skills, knowledge, confidence and networks they need to run for elected office and thrive as political leaders. https://pathwaystopolitics.org.au/
