Those women's magazines emerge as the real political influencers

First New Idea and now Women's Weekly. Move over parliamentary press gallery. Real media power is emerging.
Julia, 56, headed to Canberra "a parliamentary novice" with "a lot to learn" filled with passion and excitement. But she quickly realised being heard was going to be an uphill battle, especially in a party with a slender one-seat majority.
"The party room was not what I expected. I spoke up many times and particularly on programs about women I'd get the eye roll from the right-wing reactionary group."
So, when those reactionaries seized control, Julia knew she couldn't stay. She was in parliament to represent the people, not tow the party line, especially when that line had shifted significantly to the right.

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