Councillor Tanya Higgins Targeted by Gendered Online Abuse in Australia

Councillor Tanya Higgins of Snowy Monaro, New South Wales, was publicly insulted by fellow councillor Andrew Thaler, who called her a “fat dumb blonde”. The harassment extended online, with her children hearing repeated insults such as “stupid fat bitch” and “fat liar”. An incident on Boxing Day last year involved a trespasser repeatedly driving up and down her driveway, which she described as crossing a line.

The case reflects a broader pattern of gendered online abuse targeting women politicians across Australia. Research by the non‑partisan nonprofit Women for Election, based on responses from 110 current and aspiring female office‑holders, found that almost 90 % had experienced such abuse and more than half said it made them reconsider staying in public office. The study noted heightened abuse toward women from multicultural backgrounds, LGBTQ+ women and younger politicians. Other recent examples include threats against NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty and the deactivation of Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane’s X account after violent messages.