Apply

Apply for the program

Interested in applying for our 2024 program?

Provide your information via our expression of interest form and we'll email to notify you when applications are open  (around late February / early March 2024).

Application process

The University of Melbourne Pathways to Politics Program for Women application is comprised of four sections:

  • Eligibility questions: These short questions help our Selection Committee to determine your eligibility for the program.
  • Experience and political journey: These questions help us understand more about your political aspirations, experience, and your motivation and commitment to run for election. Free text questions have a word-limit of 250 words.
  • Your ‘elevator pitch’: You will be required to upload a 90 second video. Tell us what issue(s) are important to you and what you would highlight about your values and life experience that might connect with voters and persuade them that if elected you would make a difference.
  • CV: You will be required to upload your CV. Please ensure it is no longer than two pages and includes two referees.

Eligibility guidelines

Please note there are specific eligibility requirements for the University of Melbourne program. We request that applicants confirm their eligibility at the beginning of the application in response to the following criteria:

  1. Applicants must be an Australian citizen/Australian permanent resident/holder of a permanent Humanitarian Visa.
  2. Applicants must be female-identifying or non-binary in gender identification.
  3. Applicants must currently reside in Victoria.

We are committed to minimising barriers to enter politics. As such, applicants identified by the selection committee as coming from an equity cohort will be prioritised. To be eligible to apply for a position in this equity category applicants must satisfy the application selection criteria, and also meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
  • Identify as LGBTQIA+
  • Previous status as a refugee or current holder of a humanitarian visa
  • Culturally and linguistically diverse background
  • Disadvantaged socio-economic circumstances
  • Disability or chronic medical condition
  • Difficult personal circumstances, or
  • Coming from a regional, rural or isolated area.

If you have any other queries relating to the Pathways to Politics Program for Women, please see our frequently asked questions section or contact us.