Application process

Please note there are specific eligibility requirements for this program. We request that applicants confirm their eligibility at the beginning of the application in response to the following criteria:

1. I am an Australian citizen/Australian permanent resident/holder of a permanent Humanitarian Visa.
2. I am female-identifying or non-binary in gender identification.
3. I am an ACT or NSW resident. 

We are committed to minimising barriers to enter politics. As such, applicants identified by the selection committee as coming from an equity cohort will be prioritised. To be eligible to apply for a position in this equity category applicants must satisfy the application selection criteria, and also meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander

• Identify as LGBTQIA+

• Previous status as a refugee or current holder of a humanitarian visa 

• Culturally and linguistically diverse background

• Disadvantaged socio-economic circumstances

• Disability or chronic medical condition

• Difficult personal circumstances, or 

• Coming from a rural or isolated area.

If you have any other queries relating to the Pathways to Politics Program for Women, please contact us.

The Pathways to Politics Program for Women application is comprised of four sections:

• Eligibility questions: These short questions help our Selection Committee to determine your eligibility for the program.

• Scenario-based questions: These questions will help us understand more about your personal and professional leadership experience, political aspirations and commitment to run, and your engagement with Australian politics and policy.

• CV: We ask you to submit a CV that is no longer than three pages and includes three referees. 

• 90-second Video: This provides an opportunity for you to pitch what you will bring to the program and what impact you can make in the political realm.

In 2023, the University of Canberra program will accept up to 30 participants. Participants are selected on a competitive basis. The selection criteria are as follows:

• Commitment to seeking elected office

• Leadership experience

• Professional and life experience

• Political engagement

• Ability to tell your story in a compelling way.

All applications are reviewed by a Selection Committee, which places a strong emphasis on multi-partisanship and equity in selection and seeks a cohort of women with diverse professional and life experiences.

The program provides a safe space for women of diverse backgrounds, professions, cultures, and ideologies to fulfill their shared aspiration to pursue public office.