A Nationwide Initiative to Improve Democracy for All
In 2022, sparked by shared experiences as women in politics and as participants in Next25’s Leadership course for parliamentarians, four women MPs from NSW united across party lines with a shared desire to transform the experience of parliament for women. Drawing on the best practices and tried-and-tested process of Leadership, Improving Democracy: Transforming Parliament for Women was created.
Program alumnae, representing 31% of NSW women parliamentarians, continue to work collectively, in partnership with Next25 and delivery partners Corporate Evolution, to create the conditions for systemic change.
2024 saw the launch of our nationwide Transforming Parliament for Women program. Building on the success of this women-led movement in NSW, the expansion will create more inclusive and welcoming parliamentary environments where everyone can thrive, and where politics inspires the public.
The inaugural program was held earlier this year, gathering women politicians from six parliaments.
We invite women from Parliaments across Australia to register for future opportunities to participate in this galvanising program.
This initiative is one approach for restoring trust between politicians and a public which is losing confidence in democracy. Watch the video below to hear from five women alumnae as they speak about the program and its impacts to date.
The Steering Committee reflect on the experiences that helped spark this initiative:
““This is the reminder all MPs need at least once in their career. The facilitators expertly guided us through self reflection exercises that bring you back to your true purpose in politics. I know this is something that myself and other MPs struggle to make time for – but it’s critical for leading with integrity and rebuilding trust with the public””
““So much about being an MP is about reacting to external forces – and moving quickly from issue to issue, meeting to meeting, or campaign to campaign. This initiative helps to create the space to consider the bigger picture – and enables us to focus on the purpose of what we are doing, and the contribution we can collectively make, to strengthening our democracy and contributing to our communities””
““More than just professional development that bolsters capability, this initiative is designed to empower and enable us to improve the political system itself. The alumni community is pivotal in maintaining this space where we can support each other in taking these learnings into action””
““This course is a rare opportunity to connect with colleagues across party lines in a safe environment. Away from the stressors of parliament, we had the chance to see ourselves and each other in a new light. It’s where myself and the other women parliamentarians who are supporting this initiative realised we have a shared vision for improving parliament - enabling us to take collective action””
Why participate?
This opportunity is open to all women parliamentarians across Australia. Expert facilitators have designed a two-day program to bolster individual leadership capability and harness the power of collective transformation. This lays the foundation for the next step, where participants can take purposeful action.
Testimonials
“The Transforming Parliament for Women course is transformational because it gives you the wisdom to understand who you are, who our colleagues are, and how together we can influence and change things for the better.”
“This workshop provided me with a unique environment to share challenges and vulnerabilities with other elected women, allowing me to explore areas for growth through a practical, empowering process. Highly recommend for women leaders looking for a better understanding of their motivations and power.”
“The most insightful two days with incredible leaders from all levels of government, connecting and sharing ideas while being vulnerable and creating a safe space for all. Highly recommend to all the boss ladies out there!”
“This workshop is hugely beneficial for those of us finding our feet in Parliament. It provides useful tools, resources & connections to help us maximise our purpose and effectiveness.”
“This program has been a wonderful way to connect with women across the political spectrum and pause to take a breath and reflect on why we are in Parliament. As a new MP it has been great to develop these connections and to see the similarities many of us share. The program helps us to find space to work on the longer-term vision of making the parliament a better place, not just for women, but for everyone.”
“I was doubtful about the ability of a small group of diverse women to change the culture of parliament. Now I believe that we really can.
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In the News
Women’s Agenda
Sydney Morning Herald
Registrations
We are taking expressions of interest from all women parliamentarians for 2025.
This specially designed initiative is available to all women parliamentarians for $1,500 (plus GST), and is valued at over $5,500.
For more information, please contact us.
You may be eligible to claim the costs of this program through a parliamentary allowance. (It is your responsibility to confirm the details of any such parliamentary allowance.)
Partners and Supporters
Insights From the Inside
Chloë Spackman, CEO at independent think-and-do tank, Next25, interviews Lisa Doig and Renu Burr from Corporate Evolution, the 2022 co-lead facilitators of Next25’s initiative “Improving Democracy: Transforming Parliament for Women”. They reflect on what makes this program unique from a facilitator’s experience.
If your organisation is interested in supporting this initiative, please contact Chloë Spackman, CEO at chloe@next25.org.au.
Nominate a Politician
Do you know a woman parliamentarian with great potential who would benefit from the opportunity to reflect, foster insight, and experience personal and leadership breakthroughs? Someone who is eager to transform the political system, and make it a better place for women? Let us know, and we will invite them to take part in the course based on your referral.
To nominate a woman parliamentarian, please email us the following information:
1. The full name of your nominated parliamentarian
2. A few lines explaining why you think they would benefit from the training, this must be framed positively, ie, you are nominating someone with potential for great leadership to catalyse transformative change in the political system
3. Your name and current role (optional but preferred)
Lastly, why not let them know yourself, too?
You can forward the Improving Democracy: Transforming Parliament for Women brochure via email or social media directly to your nominated parliamentarian.