She and other female members of the Nationals party marked 100 years since women won the right to stand for the Victorian Parliament.
The milestone event celebrated ‘extraordinary ordinary’ women.
Applications are now open for the Pathway to Politics program, which 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.
“Our community is full of extraordinary women doing amazing things,” The Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland 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 Cleeland said she was proud to be part of a new group of dynamic female MPs recently elected to parliament.
“The Nationals have a majority of women in the 60th parliament, based on merit and not quotas,” she said.
The new Nationals MPs alongside Annabelle Cleeland (Euroa), include Kim O’Keeffe (Shepparton), Jade Benham (Mildura) and Gaelle Broad (Northern Victoria Region).
“My colleagues are all exceptional representatives, and strong local advocates, focused on the best outcomes for their local communities.” Ms Cleeland said.
She 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 lives of all Victorian women and girls.”
To apply for the Pathway to Politics program, vist https://pathwaystopolitics.org.au/
