Emma Larouche
6 March 2023: Applications are now open for the University of Canberra’s inaugural intake of the Pathways to Politics Program for Women.
The program is open to female-identifying and non-binary residents of the ACT and South-East New South Wales and will run from mid-July to mid-September 2023.
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.
Pathways to Politics Program Director Amy Kilpatrick is from the Faculty of Business Government and Law and urges women who are considering a career in public office to apply.
“This is an incredible opportunity to learn in a supportive and collegial environment – hearing from UC academics and women who have carved out careers at local, state and federal government levels,” Ms Kilpatrick said.
The pathways program was initiated by the Trawalla Foundation, Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, and University of Melbourne in 2016 and has expanded its reach through partnerships with universities across Australia, including the University of Canberra and University of Adelaide this year.
The University marked the occasion with a launch event at the National Gallery of Australia last week, celebrating the success of female leaders in the political landscape.
Featuring an inspiring address by Australian Ambassador for Gender Equality Stephanie Copus Campbell AM, and a panel discussion of powerful voices including Pathways to Politics founder and Trawalla Foundation Chair Carol Schwartz AO, Canberra Liberals leader Elizabeth Lee MLA, and former Federal Labor MP Gai Brodtmann.
“It was wonderful to see women coming together from across the political divide, to speak candidly about their experiences and offer incredible insight into the impact female participation in politics and leadership can have on our society,” Ms Kilpatrick said.
Pathways to Politics has realised significant impact in advancing female political participation since it launched in 2016, with 28 electoral successes achieved nationally across the political spectrum at local, state, and federal levels of government.
Apply for the University of Canberra’s 2023 intake of the Pathways to Politics for Women Program here.
Applications close midnight 1 May.
Photos by David Beach
