The Nationals WA have today unveiled the establishment of the WA Women’s Council, driven by female membership to shape policies and advocate on issues impacting West Australians.
State President of The Nationals WA Julie Freeman said the Women’s Council provided an additional pathway into the Party to engage with women on policy development, and to support them into leadership roles throughout the organisation.
“We are dedicated to ensuring all West Australians see themselves reflected in our Party as we look towards the 2025 State election,” Ms Freeman said.
“We are an organisation that has existed for over 100 years, yet (with some notable exceptions) we have had a predominantly male Parliamentary team.
“It is important there are structures and support to encourage and empower women to participate at all levels of our Party.”
Federal Women’s Council President Julie Kirby welcomed the announcement.
“To announce this on International Women’s Day, which bears the theme ‘inspire inclusion’ is very befitting,” Ms Kirby said.
“This is a significant step forward for our party and underscores our commitment to having a diverse and inclusive dialogue ahead of the 2025 election.”
Ms Kirby said the WA Women’s Council will mirror the Women’s Federal Council established by the Federal National Party in 1959.
“The Federal Women’s Council has played a key role in shaping important ideas, and in 1990, this initiative saw The Nationals become the first Party in Australia to recognise and develop strategies relating to domestic violence.
“There are many contemporary challenges for regional women – working in traditionally male-dominated industries, accessing healthcare and childcare in our regions, or facing barriers to enter politics and other leadership roles.
“It’s my hope that the formation of the WA Women’s Council will provide space to discuss, address and overcome some of these challenges, not just for The Nationals WA but for all women,” Ms Kirby said.
Hon Mia Davies MLA said the Women’s Council was a welcome addition to the organisation and she looked forward to developing the charter and program of work with members and the Party leadership.
“There’s no doubt there are opportunities for women to rise to senior roles in the Party and we are building upon a strong foundation, but we always can do more.
“That’s the message on International Women’s day – think long and hard about what you and your business or organisation can do to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women to thrive in.”
Leader of The Nationals Shane Love said the Women’s Council was a way to engage women from around WA who want to be part of change for their communities.
“While we now have gender parity in our State Parliament, and in leadership bodies within The Nationals WA, there is always more we can do to bolster the position of women in our party and in politics more broadly,” Mr Love said.
“I also hope to see the WA Women’s Council play a role in attracting and supporting female candidates ahead of the 2025 State election.”
The Nationals WA have called for all women interested in joining the Women’s Council to contact the Party’s head office at info@nationalswa.com
