Overview

Lara Giddings (born 14 November 1972) is an Australian politician best known for serving as Premier of Tasmania from 24 January 2011 until March 2014. She led the Tasmanian Labor government after the resignation of David Bartlett and was a prominent figure in state politics during the early 2010s. Giddings achieved two notable distinctions in her career: she was the first woman to hold the office of Premier in Tasmania and she was recognised as one of the youngest women elected to an Australian parliament.

Political career and milestones

Giddings entered parliamentary life at a relatively young age and progressed through party and ministerial ranks before taking the state’s top job. Her tenure as premier began in January 2011 when she succeeded David Bartlett. As leader of the state Labor Party she navigated the government through a period of political and economic challenges affecting Tasmania.

  • 24 January 2011 — Assumed office as Premier of Tasmania following a party leadership change.
  • 15 March 2014 — The Labor government she led was defeated in the state election by the Liberal Party under Will Hodgman.
  • Recognised as both the first female premier of the state and among the youngest women elected to a state parliament in Australia.

Roles and responsibilities

As premier, Giddings was the head of the Tasmanian government and was responsible for setting policy priorities, managing the executive branch at state level, and representing Tasmania in intergovernmental forums. Before and during her leadership she participated in the broad portfolio work typical of senior state politicians, which involves balancing regional development, public services and fiscal considerations.

Significance and legacy

Lara Giddings's premiership is frequently cited for its symbolic value in advancing gender representation in Australian politics. Her appointment as the first female premier of Tasmania marked a milestone for the state and contributed to wider conversations about women’s leadership in government. The 2014 election outcome saw a change of government, but Giddings's place in Tasmanian political history remains notable for both her personal achievements and the examples she set for younger women pursuing political careers.

Notable facts

  • Born 14 November 1972.
  • First woman to serve as Premier of Tasmania.
  • Led the state Labor government until its 2014 electoral defeat by the Liberals under Will Hodgman.