Pathways to Politics for Women
Pathways to Politics for Women at the University of Adelaide is increasing the number of women in Australian politics by equipping diverse women to boldly embrace their political ambitions, thrive as leaders and make a profound contribution to society.
An initiative of the Trawalla Foundation, Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, and the University of Melbourne, Pathways to Politics for Women is a part of a national Pathways to Politics partnership that seeks to address the underrepresentation of women in Australian politics.
Over the last nine years Pathways to Politics has helped hundreds of women to run for office, and achieved 85* electoral successes nationally across the political spectrum and at all levels of government. (*correct at the time of publication)
Through comprehensive practical training, workshops, mentoring and career-long support, Pathways to Politics provides unparalleled expertise for women who are serious about driving change through political leadership. Our proudly non-partisan program is uniquely designed in collaboration with eight leading universities across Australia, tailored to the South Australian context. 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.
Programs are open to women across Australia. Program participation is fully funded through the generous support of philanthropic and university partners.
Participate in Pathways to Politics for Women and experience the following benefits:
- Learn from Australia’s most comprehensive and award-winning program which is accessible, diverse and fully funded
- Become the politician you want to be in a safe, inclusive space
- Help shape Australia’s political landscape
Pathways to Politics for Women comprises host universities including the University of Adelaide. It is offered free to selected participants.
Note: Pathways to Politics embraces an inclusive definition of ‘women’, acknowledging the diversity of women we work with and aim to support, including cisgender and transgender women, and non- binary people.
“Pathways to Politics doesn’t just bewail the undersupply of women in public office: it takes practical steps to address the problem, equipping women with the skills and confidence to get involved….It’s an invaluable down-payment on a better kind of politics.“Annabel Crabb
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
When does the program run and how is it delivered?
Pathways to Politics for Women has one intake per year. The University of Adelaide program runs from August to November and includes a total of ten sessions:
- Five full-day, in-person sessions
- Five online sessions, held after hours
-
Is support available for rural and regional participants?
Travel and accomodation bursaries are available for all rural and regional participants thanks to our Rural and Regional Access Partner Minderoo Foundation - ensuring equal access for women nationwide.
-
Who can apply?
You do not need to be enrolled at the University of Adelaide, a graduate of the university, or hold any tertiary or higher education qualifications to apply for Pathways to Politics for Women.
To be eligible for the program at the University of Adelaide, you will need to meet the following criteria:
1. Be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or holder of a permanent Humanitarian Visa.
2. Be currently residing in South Australia. If you live in a different state or territory, you can apply through one of our partner universities instead.
3. Identify as a woman, noting we embrace an inclusive definition of 'women', including cisgender and transgender women, as well as non-binary individuals.
All eligibility requirements will be clearly outlined in the application form.
Hear from past participants
"Before this program, I did everything I could to avoid the fact that I loved politics and wanted to be more than a spectator or commentator. Each week I was taken on a journey that showed me how I can fit in, how everyone can. I entered feeling insecure and frightened and left feeling strong, confident and empowered to take my political future seriously."
Sallee Shepherd, 2023, University of Adelaide Pathways to Politics alum
Pathways to Politics has been an invaluable journey that empowered me with the essential tools, insights, and a supportive network crucial for stepping into the realm of public service. I gained a profound understanding of the political landscape, honed my skills, and established connections with an incredible array of experienced leaders and fellow aspiring women.
Casey Miles, 2023 University of Adelaide Pathways to Politics alum
“I wouldn’t be embarking on this incredible journey if I didn’t take part in Pathways to Politics for Women. Pathways helped me understand what I perceived weaknesses were actually strengths. More compassion in politics is only a good thing. Through Pathways to Politics for Women, I also learned the power of my story. Importantly, it gave me confidence to take back the narrative on some of my personal experiences holding me back from public life."
Georgie Purcell, Animal Justice Party member of the Legislative Council for Northern Victoria
“Pathways to Politics equipped me with the knowledge, skills, networks & confidence to run for office. I had the privilege to connect and learn from a diverse group of experts, politicians, and most importantly, the cohort of passionate women dedicated to making positive change for their community.”
Skye Tito, NSW Labor Candidate for Sydney
“You cannot be what you cannot see. That’s why Pathways to Politics is so important. It provides a window into the experience of those who have been politically successful. We need to change the political conversation and the way to do that is to get more women elected.”
Dr Katie Allen MP, Pathways to Politics alum
“The power of Pathways to Politics for Women for me was normalising the idea of running. With that mental hurdle out of the way, I could focus on building the skills and knowledge I needed to win.”
Cr Tina Samardzija, Pathways to Politics alum
Our partners
Pathways to Politics is a truly national program, providing women from all corners of Australia and all walks of life the opportunity to engage in political leadership and contribute to the future of the nation.
