Written by Sunny
Modified & Updated: 23 Jan 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Gladys Berejiklian, a prominent figure in Australian politics, has made significant contributions to the state of New South Wales (NSW) during her tenure as Premier. Here are 16 interesting facts about Gladys Berejiklian that every Australian should know.
Early Life
Gladys Berejiklian was born on September 22, 1970, in Sydney, Australia. Her parents were Armenian immigrants who instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the opportunities Australia provided.
Education
Berejiklian holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sydney and a Masters in Commerce from the University of New South Wales.
Early Career
Before entering politics, Berejiklian worked as a General Manager for the Commonwealth Bank.
Political Career
Berejiklian’s political career began in 2003 when she was elected as the Member for Willoughby in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.
Premier of New South Wales
In January 2017, Berejiklian became the 45th Premier of New South Wales, making her the second woman to hold this position.
First Armenian-Australian Premier
Berejiklian is the first Armenian-Australian to become a Premier of an Australian state.
Infrastructure Development
During her tenure as Premier, Berejiklian oversaw significant infrastructure development, including the construction of the Sydney Metro, the largest public transport project in Australia.
Education Reforms
Berejiklian has been instrumental in implementing education reforms in New South Wales, including a major overhaul of the school curriculum.
Response to Bushfires
Berejiklian’s leadership was tested during the 2019-2020 bushfires, which were among the worst in Australia’s history. Her response to the crisis was widely praised.
COVID-19 Management
Berejiklian’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic in New South Wales has been commended for its effectiveness in controlling the spread of the virus while balancing the needs of the economy.
Resignation
In October 2021, Berejiklian announced her resignation as Premier of New South Wales following an investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption.
Personal Life
Berejiklian is known for her private nature. She has never married and does not have children, stating that her political career has been her primary focus.
Community Involvement
Berejiklian is actively involved in the Armenian-Australian community and has served on the Armenian National Committee of Australia.
Honours
In 2021, Berejiklian was named the McKinnon Political Leader of the Year for her leadership during the bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Legacy
Despite the controversy surrounding her resignation, Berejiklian’s legacy as Premier is marked by her commitment to public service, her effective leadership during crises, and her contributions to the development of New South Wales.
Future Plans
While Berejiklian has stepped back from public life following her resignation, she has not ruled out a return to politics in the future.
Conclusion
Gladys Berejiklian’s journey from the daughter of immigrants to the Premier of New South Wales is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and commitment to public service. These 16 facts about Gladys Berejiklian offer a glimpse into her life, her achievements, and her impact on New South Wales and Australia as a whole. Despite the challenges and controversies she faced, Berejiklian’s legacy in Australian politics remains significant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was Gladys Berejiklian born?
Gladys Berejiklian was born on September 22, 1970.
What positions did Gladys Berejiklian hold in politics?
Gladys Berejiklian served as the Member for Willoughby in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and later as the 45th Premier of New South Wales.
What is Gladys Berejiklian’s educational background?
Gladys Berejiklian holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sydney and a Masters in Commerce from the University of New South Wales.
What major events did Gladys Berejiklian manage as Premier?
As Premier, Gladys Berejiklian managed the response to the 2019-2020 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic in New South Wales.
Why did Gladys Berejiklian resign as Premier?
Gladys Berejiklian resigned as Premier following an investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption.
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