UPDATE: New South Wales is celebrating a groundbreaking milestone: it has been exactly 100 years since Millicent Preston-Stanley became the first woman elected to Parliament. This historic moment, which occurred in 1925, marks a significant leap for women in politics amid ongoing discussions about gender equality.
The celebration, held at the NSW Parliament, was highlighted by remarks from former High Court Justice Virginia Bell, who emphasized the long journey women have taken to gain representation. Women in Australia secured the right to vote and run for federal office in 1902, but state-level hurdles persisted for decades. Opponents argued women lacked the necessary expertise in mining and land laws, a viewpoint that has since been proven wrong.
Despite these challenges, the Women’s Legal Status Act of 1918 paved the way for women to hold significant roles, including as members of Parliament and judges. Bell remarked that many believed the passage of this law would not disrupt the political landscape, stating, “The electorate, it was felt, was not going to return women as members.”
On August 25, 1925, Preston-Stanley made history as the first female speaker in the NSW Legislative Assembly. A passionate advocate for women’s rights, she fought for reforms in maternal health, child welfare, and housing. Her advocacy laid the groundwork for future legislative changes, though she faced setbacks, including losing her seat in 1927.
Despite the slow progress—only three women were elected in the following 50 years—today’s landscape is much different. Currently, women make up approximately 42 percent of the NSW Legislative Assembly, a stark contrast to the time of Preston-Stanley’s historic election. The rise in female representation has opened doors and inspired future generations.
Virginia Bell highlighted the impact of Preston-Stanley’s legacy, calling her a “truly remarkable, staunch trailblazer.” The ongoing celebration of her contributions serves as a reminder of the hard-fought battles women continue to wage for equality in politics.
Millicent Preston-Stanley passed away in June 1955, but her legacy remains alive in the halls of NSW Parliament. As celebrations unfold, many hope that her story will inspire more women to enter politics and continue the fight for equality.
With more than 150 women having served in the NSW Parliament since Preston-Stanley’s time, the future looks promising. This centenary not only commemorates a pivotal moment in history but also serves as a call to action for ongoing advocacy and representation in governance.
Stay tuned for further updates as NSW continues to honor this significant milestone in women’s political history.
