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2 clusters · 3 sources · 11 days · First seen 15 days ago · Last updated 5 days ago

Gendered online abuse of Australian women politicians

Overview

Female politicians in Australia are facing significant levels of gendered online abuse. Individual cases include Snowy Monaro Councillor Tanya Higgins, who was subjected to insults such as “fat dumb blonde” and “fat liar” by a fellow councillor and through online channels, as well as incidents involving NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty and Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane.

A survey conducted by the nonprofit Women for Election of 110 current and aspiring female office-holders found that approximately 89 percent of respondents have experienced role-related online abuse. The research indicates that this harassment is particularly heightened for younger politicians, LGBTQ+ women, and women from multicultural backgrounds.

Officials, including Gosford MP Liesl Tesch and Newcastle deputy lord mayor Charlotte McCabe, have described the impact of such behavior as frightening and wearing. The prevalence of this digital harassment has raised concerns that it may deter women from entering or remaining in public office.

Entities

Women for Election · Andrew Thaler · Charlotte McCabe · Tara Moriarty · Liesl Tesch

Timeline

5 days ago

[POLITICS] 3 sources
Australian women in politics face widespread online abuse
A survey of 110 Australian women in public office found that 89 percent have experienced online abuse linked to their political roles.
15 days ago

[POLITICS] 2 sources
Councillor Tanya Higgins Targeted by Gendered Online Abuse in Australia
Australian Councillor Tanya Higgins was insulted by fellow councillor Andrew Thaler and faced online gendered abuse, part of a wider pattern affecting 90% of women politicians, according to Women for Election.

Sources

dungogchronicle.com.au · lakesmail.com.au · portstephensexaminer.com.au