Pathways to Politics for Women is increasing the number of women in Australian politics by equipping diverse women to boldly embrace their political ambitions, thrive as leaders and make a profound contribution to society.
Through comprehensive practical training, workshops, mentoring and career-long support, we provide unparalleled expertise for women who are serious about driving change through political leadership.
- Australia’s most comprehensive and award-winning political training program
- Learn to be the politician you want to be in a safe, inclusive space
- Help shape Australia’s political landscape
- Accessible, diverse and fully funded
92 ELECTORAL SUCCESSES NATIONALLY
Across the political spectrum and all levels of government
Information for applicants
Applications for our 2026 programs will open in March 2026. Join our expressions of interest list to be notified!
Programs are open to women across Australia. Program participation is fully funded through the generous support of philanthropic and university partners.
Travel and accommodation bursaries are available for rural and regional participants.
The proudly non-partisan programs are uniquely designed in collaboration with eight leading universities across Australia, tailored to each local context.
Note: Pathways to Politics embraces an inclusive definition of ‘women’, acknowledging the diversity of women we work with and aim to support, including cisgender and transgender women, and non-binary people.
Read about our application and selection process in our FAQs.
“Pathways to Politics doesn’t just bewail the undersupply of women in public office: it takes practical steps to address the problem, equipping women with the skills and confidence to get involved….It’s an invaluable down-payment on a better kind of politics.“
Annabel Crabb
“This program made me think about the contribution I wanted to make to my community. It made me be brave and bold and see a bigger role for what that contribution might look like.”
Sally Sitou MP, Federal MP for Reid and Pathways to Politics alum
What to expect
Participants will gain first-hand insights from prominent politicians, advisors, speechwriters, and media trainers to give you confidence and clarity about your future in politics.
You will be supported to realise your capabilities through practical workshops and exercises provided in a respectful and supported environment – for example through media and campaign training, and delivering a speech in parliament.
Modules cover topics such as:
- political vision
- campaign planning
- media training
- speechwriting
- leadership skills
Program delivery differs between programs. Some programs are delivered as full-time, face-to-face intensives over the course of a week. Others are delivered part-time across three to four months, and may be delivered as a mixture face-to-face and online sessions.
Still want to know more?
“The Pathways to Politics for Women program was a game-changer for me! It equipped me with the skills, knowledge and courage to pursue my dreams in politics. I am now more confident than ever to make a difference and be a voice for change in my community. I have learnt about personal experiences ranging from family, finances and personal reflections. This is an awesome program. “
Hajrah Kamran, Pathways to Politics alum
“As a regional woman, Pathways to Politics for Women showed me that politics needs our lived experience and community leadership. What started as curiosity became conviction and by the end of the program, I was a candidate in the next state election, with the confidence, networks, and belief to step forward and lead.”
Mayor Simone Bailey, Mid Murray Council, Pathways to Politics alum
Hear from our alums
Find out more about our incredible national community of Pathways to Politics alums:
Find the program in your state or territory
Find out more about the program in your state or territory
Our programs are uniquely designed in collaboration with eight of Australia’s leading universities and tailored to your local context.
For more detailed information about the program in your state or territory, please visit their website:
- The University of Melbourne (Victoria)
- QUT (Queensland)
- UNSW Sydney (New South Wales)
- Charles Darwin University (Northern Territory)
- University of Canberra (Australian Capital Territory)
- The University of Adelaide (South Australia)
- The University of Western Australia (Western Australia)
- The University of Tasmania (Tasmania)
