Recommendations for your pathway to politics: Laurie Zio

Laurie Zio, Country Liberal Party for Fannie Bay, 2024 Northern Territory Election

In this blog series, we ask our alums to tell us about their personal ‘pathway to politics’ and provide their recommendations for content that will help support, guide, inspire and engage other women on their political journey.

Over the last few years, I have tossed around the idea of entering politics. I wanted to make sure it was the right decision, so in 2023 I applied for Pathways to Politics for Women, a program that provided me with increased insight into the roles, responsibilities and personal attributes required to be successful in the political arena.

One of the most significant milestones in recent political history has been the breaking of the glass ceiling in various political spheres. Women are not just participating; they are leading nations, states, territories and communities. From heads of state like Jacinda Ardern in New Zealand and Angela Merkel in Germany, to local council members and grassroots activists, women are assuming roles of power and responsibility at every level of governance.

In recent decades, there has been a seismic shift in the landscape of politics worldwide, marked by the increasing presence and influence of women. Breaking through traditional barriers and challenging long-held stereotypes, women are stepping into political arenas with determination, resilience, and a vision for change.

“I am entering the political arena to confirm my commitment to a world where women and men stand on equal footing in shaping the future of our community and country.”

At the time of the 2023 program, I was the Education Advisor to the then Minister for Education. I am a keen observer of behaviour, and in that role, I watched carefully how the women in the NT’s political system were navigating their way, and during the program I studied how other participants held themselves at different points in time, how they worked together, how they challenged themselves, and how they supported each other.

It was reaffirming to hear that many of the most successful women in the NT over the years are normal, everyday women, with a common desire to work hard, and do what is right for the community.

Despite progress, women in politics continue to face challenges such as gender discrimination, biased media scrutiny, and systemic barriers to leadership positions. These challenges fuel my determination to push for greater representation and create a more inclusive political landscape.

The entry of women into politics brings with it a diverse range of perspectives and priorities that have historically been marginalised or overlooked. Our lived experience as women, mothers, caregivers, and professionals offers unique insights into policymaking and governance, leading to more comprehensive and empathetic decision-making processes. Women in politics serve as powerful role models for future generations.

I joined the Country Liberal Party because I believe in freedom of speech, property rights, competition, economic freedom, less government intervention/interference, and more responsibility on the individual and private sector. I am entering the political arena to confirm my commitment to a world where women and men stand on equal footing in shaping the future of our community and country.

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My recommendations

Podcast: Mums Gone Troppo

If you are like me and enjoy listening to the stories of women doing amazing things, I encourage you to follow the Mums Gone Troppo podcast series by Molly Upstill and Kathleen Gazzola. The hosts do an amazing job of making sure they ask all the questions you want to know about their guests, and they have interviewed some of my most favourite people!

Listen online