Anne Webster: Seeking opportunity
“There are many issues that warrant and deserve attention in federal parliament and I’m really keen to do that.”
Almost 100 years ago, Edith Cowan became the first woman elected to an Australian parliament, in March 1921.
In Her Seat is asking as many currently serving female politicians as we can how they view gender equality, politics and their impact.
This is a non-partisan project that is soliciting contributions from women in all parties, or none at all, in every parliament.
Anne Webster is the Member for Mallee in the Federal Parliament. Anne was elected in 2019 and is a member of the National Party.
Mallee is a big electorate, just under 82,000 square kilometres or one-third of Victoria.
One of the few people in the Parliament with a higher degree, Anne completed a PhD in 2018 on issues relating to adoption.
Before entering Parliament, Anne worked as a social worker and non-profit executive, primarily in Mildura in regional Victoria. She was the founding executive director of Zoe Support, an organisation assisting young mothers with education.
It’s this background that makes Anne cognisant of limitations to opportunity. As you will read, this is what drives her in the parliament.
What does gender equality mean to you?
It is not a term that I use. I believe roles should focus on the skills and abilities of the person who is applying, rather than gender.
My personal view is that the most suitable person for the job should have an equal opportunity to apply and be accepted.
There ought not to be bias against someone because they’re a woman, or man, or they are older or younger.
Which female politicians have inspired or encouraged you?
Bridget McKenzie has inspired and encouraged me. Bridget has been a senator for ten years, at a time when politics has been largely dominated by men. She has been a standard-bearer for those of us who follow.
Politics has been through significant change over the last 10 years, with many lessons learned.
Bridget has shown great strength of character, which has been required in largely male domains.
What inspired you to serve your community?
In the last 13 years, I established a charity for unsupported young mothers to assist them to engage in education and employment.
My heart has always been to fight for those who need support.
Since being in politics I am finding many people do not have an equal opportunity, whether it is due to regionality or other factors, I am committed to fighting for this right.
What are the most important contributions you are making in Parliament?
I think representing my electorate to the best of my ability, whether it’s in terms of seasonal workforce shortages, or water policy, access to health care or other service delivery.
There are many issues that warrant and deserve attention in federal parliament and I’m really keen to do that.
What is next for gender equality in politics?
I hope that gender equality becomes a subject that does not need to be discussed.
My aim would be to be the best representative for the people of Mallee that I can be.
That I can inspire others to understand that this is possible regardless of your age or your gender.
A representative of an electorate should be elected on the basis of skill but also passion and commitment for people and an ability to communicate.
In Her Seat interviews can be accessed here
