UPDATE: New reports confirm that August 2025 marks a historic milestone for women in politics in New South Wales (NSW), celebrating 100 years since the election of the first woman to parliament, feminist and temperance campaigner Millicent Preston-Stanley. This significant anniversary highlights the progress women have made in political representation, with current statistics showing that women now make up approximately 42% of the NSW Legislative Assembly.
Just yesterday, officials commemorated this landmark event at a special session in the NSW Parliament, where former High Court justice Virginia Bell spoke on the lasting impact of Preston-Stanley’s advocacy for women and children. Bell emphasized that the passage of the Women’s Legal Status Act in 1918 was a pivotal moment, allowing women to be elected as members of parliament and appointed as judges or solicitors.
Despite the obstacles faced by women at that time, including skepticism about their capabilities in legislative matters, Preston-Stanley’s election in 1925 paved the way for future female leaders. On August 25 of that year, she made history by being the first woman to speak in the Legislative Assembly, delivering a maiden speech that advocated for fairer divorce laws, better healthcare for mothers, and enhanced protections for children.
Preston-Stanley’s tenure was not without challenges. Following the abolition of her seat in 1927, she was unable to secure re-election. However, her influence continued through the Feminist Club, a professional women’s lobby aimed at advancing women’s rights, which stood apart from traditional women’s organizations of the time.
The progress since then has been slow yet significant; only three women were elected to the Legislative Assembly in the 50 years following Preston-Stanley’s election. Today, over 150 women have served as members, illustrating a profound transformation in the political landscape of NSW.
Virginia Bell remarked, “She was a truly remarkable, staunch trailblazer and it’s very fitting that her pioneering advocacy for women should be acknowledged.” This statement resonates as the state reflects on the strides made in women’s representation.
As we commemorate this century of progress, the legacy of Millicent Preston-Stanley serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey towards gender equality in politics. With this anniversary, NSW is not just celebrating a historical milestone but also reaffirming its commitment to empowering women in leadership roles.
What happens next? As discussions continue about the future of women in politics, officials are expected to present new initiatives aimed at further increasing female representation in government. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
