Joan Kirner has left a wonderful legacy to the people of Victoria and Australia through her tireless work for change. Her life of activism began after she took her child to kindergarten and saw that there was one teacher for fifty children. She organised a petition and protested outside the Education Department until this was rectified. Joan then began agitating for a better education system which led to her becoming the President of the Australian Council of State School Organisations and a lifelong advocate for public education.
Joan worked passionately for change throughout her life, as Conservation Minister she consulted closely with the Union, stood up for workers and fought for jobs. She made her mark as Minister though her pragmatic approach to getting the balance right between conservation and industry development. She oversaw the formation of Land Care – a policy now implemented throughout Australia.
She then went on to become Minister for Education, her enduring passion and was able to implement many of the reforms she had agitated for throughout her life of community service.
She was a mentor and friend to many women who have gone on to play important roles in progressive politics. She was a the joint founder of Emily’s List which has played an enormous role in supporting and promoting women’s involvement in the ALP which has in turn led to a more inclusive and representative party.
Joan was motivated to fight injustice wherever she saw it. She made the shift from community activism to politics following the dismissal of the Whitlam Government. Throughout her life she was a passionate advocate for the disadvantaged. Joan had an abiding interest in everyone she met and her capacity to listen ensured she faithfully represented all she fought for.
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