Speaker of the Parliament of Tasmania, the Hon. Jacquie Petrusma MP, and Deputy Speaker Helen Burnet MP have combined to launch the state's Pathways to Politics for Women program for 2026.
Offered by the University of Tasmania, Pathways to Politics for Women is Australia's most successful program for helping women get elected to public office.
Now in its third year in Tasmania, the non-partisan program has resulted in 92 electoral successes in parliaments and councils across Australia. A total of 247 runs at election have been made nationally with a 37 per cent success rate.
"Reflecting on my own preselection in 2009, and being elected for the first time in 2010, I can't help but wish a program like Pathways to Politics for Women had been available," Mrs Petrusma said.
"Having access to practical training, trusted mentors and a supportive network would have made an enormous difference in building my confidence and navigating the complexities of entering public life.
"I believe that Pathways to Politics for Women, is so important and vital, in encouraging more Tasmanian women to step forward, knowing that they will be equipped, supported and ready to lead."
Pathways to Politics is a fully funded two-month program offering comprehensive practical training, workshops, mentoring and career-long support for women who are serious about driving change through political leadership.
"Pathways to Politics for Women provides its participants with opportunities that empower, embolden and stimulate interest in what is possible," said Ms Burnet, who is also a member of the program's Tasmanian advisory committee.
"The more women who are provided exposure to political systems – local, state and national - the better."
The program has been uniquely designed and tailored to the Tasmanian context in a collaboration between the University of Tasmania and seven other leading universities across Australia. Participants gain first-hand insights from prominent politicians, advisors, speechwriters and media trainers to give them confidence and clarity about their future in politics in a safe, supportive environment.
Pathways to Politics for Women commenced in 2016 as an initiative of the Trawalla Foundation, Women's Leadership Institute Australia and the University of Melbourne.
The program aligns with the University's strategic goals for a more equitable Tasmania, particularly in relation to education, health and productivity.
Applications for the 2026 program are now open at pathwaystopolitics.org.au
