Applications open for aspiring female politicians

Federal and state representatives from across the political spectrum have joined forces to change the face of politics through a new program at the University of Adelaide.

Applications are now open for the inaugural Pathways to Politics Program for Women, a national, proudly non-partisan initiative that aims to equipping women and non-binary people with the skills, knowledge, confidence and networks they need to run for elected office and thrive as political leaders.

The program is offered free for up to 25 participants.

Since 2016, alumni of Pathways to Politics in other States and Territories have achieved 29 election successes in federal, state and local government elections.

An initiative of the Trawalla Foundation, Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, and the University of Melbourne, the University of Adelaide program brings together significant expertise from across Australia’s political spectrum to provide networking opportunities, practical training, ethics and leadership, and supports a strong and inclusive cohort culture.

The South Australian steering committee includes Labor Deputy Premier of South Australia Susan Close, SA Liberal vice-president Leah Grantham, Greens Federal Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, and SA Best member of the South Australian Legislative Council Connie Bonaros.

Dr. Close said representation was essential for good governance.

“Our parliaments, along with all other institutions, are stronger with greater diversity and it is important we seek opportunities to increase representation for women and people of different cultural backgrounds,” Dr. Close said.

“While much has changed for the better during my time as an MP, it is important for our democracy that women with different backgrounds feel empowered to run for office.

“A critical part of Pathways to Politics is preparing women to have the confidence and skills to not only navigate and overcome those barriers, but to remove them and effect genuine change.”Connie Bonaros

Mrs Grantham said it was a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with other women involved in politics. 

‘I’m really pleased to be involved in this program which is taking practical steps to equip women with the support and tools they need to succeed in politics,” Mrs Grantham said.

“Our steering group come from across the political spectrum and from state and national level, and we are united in supporting other women to pursue this career.

“It is clear that we need more women and greater diversity in our parliaments and this program seeks to make positive change toward that goal.”

Since 2016, alumni of Pathways to Politics in other States and Territories have achieved 29 election successes in federal, state and local government elections.

Senator Hanson-Young said the success of the program was reflective of a global movement.

"Women are standing up and driving change around the world,” Senator Hanson-Young said.

“From the MeToo movement to action on climate change, women are at the forefront and leading the way.

“The Pathways to Politics Program for Women is so important to support and encourage women entering politics, and to continue to elevate their voices in our parliament. I am proud to support this great initiative."

Ms. Bonaros said the program was designed to equip participants with the skills needed to thrive in a political career.

“Getting into politics is only the start of the battle for the majority of female politicians,” Ms. Bonaros said.

“If we want a genuine conversation about what women want and need, politics should be leading by example - sadly, it doesn’t.

“Historically, politics was never designed for women – it has simply accommodated us.

“A critical part of Pathways to Politics is preparing women to have the confidence and skills to not only navigate and overcome those barriers, but to remove them and effect genuine change.”

The University of Adelaide’s Professor John Williams, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, said the University was proud to be offering this program.

“The Pathways to Politics Program for Women will give people from diverse backgrounds greater opportunities to represent their communities,” Professor Williams said.

“The University of Adelaide is excited to support women and non-binary people to enter Australian politics by equipping them with the skills they will need to succeed in a demanding but highly rewarding career.”

Applications are open now and close at midnight on 8 May.

For more information, including how to apply, please click here.