In this episode, we talk to Ms Joanne Ryan MP, Member for Lalor in Victoria and Opposition Whip about engaging the Australian voters in the political discourse.

Topics covered include:

- The function of parliamentary whips
- How grassroots campaigning can lead to a political career
- The importance of politicians connecting with young political activists in the electorate
- How local committees for a range of organisations, especially sporting and special interest organisations, can prepare you for life
- The best way to approach legislation
- The importance of what is spoken about in Parliament House
- How to use social media as a teaching tool
- The need to unite the nation instead of divide the nation
- Who can become a politician
- The importance of role models and mentors


About Ms Ryan:

Joanne was born in Werribee and has lived and worked in the local community throughout her life.

Before entering Parliament, Joanne was a school teacher and principal helping kids in Melbourne’s west get a better education for 27 years.

Joanne is a passionate advocate for her local community. Between 1996 and 1998, she served as Chair of Werribee Residents against Toxic Dump (WRATD) and successfully led the “No Toxic Dump” campaign.

Joanne is committed to our region and to the Australian Labor Party’s value of fairness. She has spent her professional and personal life working to improve outcomes for local young people, and she has seen firsthand the power that a quality education has to change and enrich lives.

She continues this work as the Member for Lalor.

Joanne is currently Opposition Whip.