The BBC reports that Julia Gillard has become Australia’s first female prime minister. Former PM, Kevin Rudd stood aside from a party ballot, which he was likely to lose.
There are very few female Prime Ministers ruling in the world, so is Gillard’s achievement significant for all women? When Gillard first became an MP she was demonised for being single and childless, not conforming to the traditional expectations of a female of her age. Gillard broke down traditional female stereotypes, showing that her gender shouldn’t matter by proving her worth as a capable politician. Gillard told the Guardian that her appointment marked a significant milestone for Australian women and she hopes it will inspire other women to become involved in politics and aim for the top job.
Gillard is keen to win the people’s trust and support in the next election as she does not feel she has fully earned the post. Rudd will also be lending a hand in helping the Australian Labour Party achieve victory again.
