Overview

Gladys Berejiklian (born 22 September 1970) is an Australian politician of Armenian heritage who served as the 45th Premier of New South Wales from 23 January 2019 to 5 October 2021. She represented the electorate of Willoughby in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly between 2003 and 2021. Born in Sydney, Berejiklian rose through state parliamentary ranks to lead the Liberal Party in New South Wales and to head the state government.

Political career and roles

Over nearly two decades in state politics, Berejiklian held multiple senior roles in the NSW government, including high‑profile cabinet responsibilities. She became leader of the New South Wales Liberal Party when appointed Premier, and during her time in cabinet she was associated with portfolios related to transport and infrastructure. Her parliamentary career was defined by a focus on delivering large public works and service reforms.

Policy priorities and projects

Berejiklian is widely associated with a major program of transport and urban infrastructure in and around Sydney. Her government advanced projects such as metro rail expansion, light rail extensions and road upgrades, emphasizing reduced travel times and increased public transport capacity. These initiatives were promoted as long‑term investments to support population and economic growth in the state.

Leadership during crises

As Premier she led the state through part of the COVID‑19 pandemic, overseeing public health measures, state restrictions and economic responses. Her performance during that period attracted significant public attention and at times high approval ratings as well as political criticism from opponents and commentators regarding the balance of health, social and economic objectives.

Resignation and investigation

On 5 October 2021 Berejiklian resigned from the premiership and from parliament. Her departure followed the announcement of an inquiry into aspects of her conduct. The resignation brought an abrupt end to her leadership and triggered a change in state party leadership and representation for her Willoughby electorate.

Legacy and notable facts

  • She served as a prominent female leader in New South Wales politics and was one of the best‑known Premiers nationally during her term.
  • Her administration is noted for prioritising several major transport and infrastructure projects intended to shape the state's development for decades.
  • Her Armenian background and community ties were a visible part of her public profile, and she took an active interest in multicultural and local community issues.

Berejiklian's career illustrates the challenges of modern state leadership: balancing large capital programs, daily public services and crisis management while operating under intense political and public scrutiny. For more detailed records of her parliamentary speeches, voting history and ministerial actions, consult official state parliamentary archives and contemporary news reporting.