Charlotte Walker has made history as Australia’s youngest-ever Senator, taking office shortly after her 21st birthday on federal election day. Representing South Australia, she secured the Labor Party’s third seat in the upper house and filled the state’s last available position in an election that also saw fellow Labor Senators Marielle Smith and Karen Grogan, as well as Liberal Senators Alex Antic and Anne Ruston, and Greens Leader Sarah Hanson-Young, elected.
Hailing from the agricultural town of Yankalilla, Walker joined the Labor Party at just 18 and rose to become the president of SA Young Labor. Along with her political role, she is employed by the Australian Services Union. Her election surpasses that of Western Australian Senator Jordan Steele-John, who was 23 when elected in 2019, and Sarah Hanson-Young, who was 25 upon her election in 2008.
Now, Walker heads to Canberra to begin her six-year term, which comes with a base salary of $217,060, as well as support staff and an office. In her campaign, she expressed a deep concern for the future and a desire to bring more young voices into politics. “I know what it’s like to have to balance work, study and paying rent. That’s why it’s important we have more young voices in parliament, people who actually understand what it’s like,” she stated.
Walker’s commitment to fostering change has received support from fellow politicians. Boothby MP Louise Miller-Frost congratulated her and acknowledged the value she will bring to both the South Australian Labor team and the federal caucus, calling her a strong voice for youth. Similarly, Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasised the importance of a parliament that represents all Australians, especially young people. She described Walker as an intelligent and principled woman who will enhance the Senate’s diversity.
As she embarks on this significant new chapter, Walker’s election is expected to resonate with younger Australians, reinforcing the importance of their participation and representation in governing.