Today I supported the Defence Housing Australia Amendment Bill 2025 - because delivering AUKUS starts with housing. As the Member for Durack, I know WA must be ready to host our allies. However, without new funding or a housing plan, this Government risks failing before we even begin. Defence spending must rise - including in cyber - because national security can’t wait.
Are you paying twice to see a GP?
Ratepayers are funding doctors, then paying again at the clinic. Labor said all you need is a Medicare card - for regional WA that was a lie. Watch my speech calling on the Health Minister to fix it.
On Sky: Labor’s Net Zero Failures and Trump Tariff Risk
This morning on Sky News, I backed Sussan Ley and called out Labor’s spin on net zero. Prices are up, emissions are up, projects are collapsing - and now Trump is threatening tariffs while Labor still can’t get a meeting. It’s weak and Australians are waking up to the truth.
National Security should never be an afterthought
Labor’s reckless dismantling of the Home Affairs portfolio has backfired - forcing them to quietly reverse course when their changes failed during a critical moment. From ASIO to border protection, Labor’s instincts are wrong. The Coalition built a strong Home Affairs framework for a reason: to keep Australians safe.
Vale Dr Alan Eggleston AO
Honoured to pay tribute to Dr Alan Eggleston AO in Parliament today. A trailblazer, a regional champion and a kind mentor to many – including myself. His legacy lives on in the communities he served so fiercely.
Labor’s Spin Can’t Cover the Pain
Durack didn’t vote for this Labor government - and for good reason. Families in Geraldton are working hard and still relying on Foodbank. Energy debt is climbing. Mortgages are crushing household budgets. And young Australians have lost hope of owning a home. Labor needs to stop congratulating itself and start helping.
Opinion Piece - PM must be clear-eyed to security threat posed by China
The first duty of the Australian Government is to keep Australians safe and the nation secure.
This duty intensifies when the Government declares that Australia is confronting its most complex strategic environment in 80 years.
In large part this is because of the rapid expansion of China’s People’s Liberation Army, which our Minister for Defence has described as the biggest increase in military capability and build-up in a conventional sense by any country since World War II.
At such a time, you would rightly expect the Government to not just be talking about the threat, but to be working to make us as strong as possible, as fast as possible.
Regrettably, that is not what the Government is doing.
The Prime Minister has not budged on defence spending which not only limits our own strategic capability, but has the secondary effect of undermining the backbone of our security policy — our alliance with the United States.
The US has served as the guarantor of regional stability since WWII. This role hasn’t been limited to our region, and it has been costly for the US taxpayer. The US is currently US$37 trillion in debt and the conflicts in Europe and the Middle East have many Americans asking why America’s allies aren’t bearing more of the cost burden to guarantee their own defence.
This push from the Americans culminated in NATO countries last month committing to lift core defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP and a further 1.5 per cent of GDP on broader defence and security related investments by 2035.
The Trump administration has called on Australia to increase our own defence spending and is currently reviewing the AUKUS agreement.
Obtaining nuclear submarines will serve as a significant deterrent to future attacks on Australia.
To ensure the continuation of this agreement, it is imperative we demonstrate that we are a credible ally. This means investing enough to operate and maintain these submarines, while not skimping out on other defence priorities.
Like NATO we should also strengthen our sovereign industrial base and commit to greater funding to protect our critical infrastructure against attacks including cyber.
As the Government’s last annual cyber threat report outlined, state-sponsored cyber operations are an ongoing concern. These actors are engaged in intelligence gathering, interference, coercion and are working to gain a foothold within critical networks.
This is an awkward fact for the Prime Minister to navigate with him last week in China.
While they are our major trading partner, they are also the source of our consternation.
This was an important trip for the Australia-China relationship, but it could also send the wrong message to our US allies.
The Prime Minister should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time. He should advocate for continued trade with China, which is vital for our economic prosperity, particularly here in WA, but he must be clear-eyed about our national security and call out unacceptable behaviour.
Reiterating where we stand will send an important message to the US as AUKUS remains under review.
This is assuming the Prime Minister’s failure to meet with President Trump since the November election, his bizarre John Curtin Oration, and his resistance to increase defence spending haven’t spoiled the deal already. If not, there is still a lot of work to be done.
While we may not get our first submarines until the early 2030s, US and UK submarines are set to begin rotating through HMAS Stirling in 2027.
Our readiness to host these submarines will be an early test and critical in signalling our commitment to AUKUS.
State and Federal Labor need to put their shoulder to the wheel to get that part of AUKUS right, otherwise we can almost kiss goodbye having our own fleet of nuclear submarines.
*Published in the West Australian, 21 July 2025
The Hon Melissa Price MP
Federal Member for Durack
Shadow Minister for Cyber Security
Shadow Minister for Science
Qantas Cyber Incident
Confirmation that Qantas has been impacted by a major cyber incident is concerning. We expect Qantas to continue working closely with relevant authorities to manage the situation swiftly and transparently.
It is vital that government agencies, including the Australian Cyber Security Centre, provide full support to Qantas as they respond to this breach. With up to six million customers potentially affected, this is a nationally significant cyber incident that must be treated with the highest urgency.
Qantas must maintain open and honest communication with the public throughout the incident. Australians travelling today should take some comfort in the company’s reassurance that flight safety remains unaffected.
This incident is a stark reminder to all Australian businesses - regardless of size or sector - of the need to take every possible measure to protect the personal data of Australians.
Qantas has been in contact with the Opposition today, and we will seek a formal briefing from the Government at an appropriate time.
Ends.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I Am Fighting For - the Redevelopment of Nabawa Recreation Centre
Liberal Member for Durack, Melissa Price MP, and the Liberals will deliver $550,000 to support the vital redevelopment of the Nabawa Recreation Centre, a project that will deliver modern facilities for local sports and community events in Chapman Valley.
“This project is about backing local communities, supporting our growing region, and ensuring women and girls feel safe and included when they step onto the field,” Ms Price said.
The Great Northern Football League (GNFL) is preparing for increased female participation, reflecting national trends in AFL and cricket and the Nabawa facility currently fails to meet basic standards for privacy, access, and safety. With changerooms offering no privacy, a single toilet for home and away teams, and no disabled access to upstairs areas, the current set-up no longer serves the community’s needs.
The proposal includes two fully compliant changerooms, accessible amenities, modern spectator areas, a large function room, commercial kitchen, bar facilities, and improved storage, all designed to meet current building codes and future community needs.
“We have a growing population, increased female participation in grassroots sport, and a strong sporting culture. This project ensures our local infrastructure keeps pace,” Ms Price said. “This is about building a facility that locals can be proud of.”
Opened in 1968, the Nabawa Recreation Centre has served our region well. However, it’s time for a facility that meets modern standards and reflects the community's growing needs.
CEO of the Shire of Chapman Valley, Jamie Criddle, welcomed the announcement: “The redevelopment of the Nabawa Recreation Centre is a game-changer for our community. It will provide modern, inclusive facilities for our growing population and create a safer, more accessible environment for all participants. We are excited to work with Melissa Price to bring this important project to life and strengthen our community through sport and recreation.”
Only the Liberals have a plan to invest in local infrastructure in our regions and get Australia back on track.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I am Fighting For - Upgrades to the Geraldton Tennis Centre
Federal Member for Durack, The Hon Melissa Price MP, has announced that a future Liberal Government will commit $550,000 towards upgrading the Geraldton Tennis Centre (GTC), delivering a major boost for local sport in the Midwest.
In 2024, the Geraldton and Spalding Tennis Clubs united to form the Geraldton Tennis Centre, a move designed to reinvigorate the sport locally. However, participation has declined due to outdated and non-compliant facilities. While the GTC boasts 25 courts, only two are floodlit - making evening play near impossible for most locals.
This investment will fund Stage 1 of the Centre’s Master Plan, which includes the conversion of six grass courts to hard courts and the expansion of lighting across the facility.
“Geraldton is the largest population centre in Durack, home to over 45,000 people, and it deserves modern, well-maintained sporting infrastructure that supports an active, healthy lifestyle,” Ms Price said.
The Geraldton Tennis Centre has a growing local presence, with nearly 900 followers on social media and a dedicated community of players and volunteers. Geraldton Tennis Centre’s vision is to increase participation across all age groups and skill levels.
“This investment is about supporting volunteers, encouraging young people to take up a racquet, and giving families more opportunities to spend time together in a safe, inclusive space,” the Federal Member for Durack added.
This funding comes in response to community feedback and reflects a clear need to modernise local facilities to meet current and future demand.
A future Liberal Government is committed to delivering real, practical support for Geraldton, ensuring our regional communities have the facilities they need to thrive.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I Am Fighting For - Lighting at Carnarvon's Premier Oval
The Hon Melissa Price MP, Federal Member for Durack, and an elected Liberal Government will commit $550,000 to upgrade the lighting at Carnarvon’s Premier Oval, ensuring the facility meets modern training and competition standards for local football clubs and the broader community.
Premier Oval is home to the Ramblers and Warriors Football Clubs, both key members of the Gascoyne Football Association, which supports teams of all ages and genders across the region. The Western Australian Football Commission has identified this project as one of the top 24 most critical football infrastructure upgrades in our state.
Federal Member for Durack, Melissa Price, said the lighting upgrade is a direct response to strong advocacy from the local community, the Western Australian Football Commission and the Shire of Carnarvon. “This is a win for Carnarvon,” Ms Price said. “Local sport is more than just a game – it Is where kids build confidence, where mateship is forged, and where families come together.”
“Upgrading the Premier Oval lighting will give local clubs the facilities they deserve, whilst creating a safer and more inclusive space for everyone to enjoy, especially during the evening.”
“This is a practical, common-sense investment that will deliver real and lasting benefits,” Ms Price said. “Whether you’re playing junior footy, coaching the seniors, or cheering from the sidelines - this upgrade will make a big difference.”
The Shire of Carnarvon, who maintains the facility, strongly support the project. Shire President Eddie Smith said the upgrade will have a wide-reaching impact on sport and community life in Carnarvon. “This project has been a priority for the Shire and the local sporting community for some time,” President Smith said. “Upgrading the lighting at Premier Oval will not only improve safety and playing conditions but also open the door to hosting more events, games and training sessions for all members of our community.”
Once complete, the lighting upgrade will allow for extended training and competition hours, better supporting the current and future needs of the community and sporting clubs in Carnarvon.
“I will always fight for regional communities like Carnarvon and stand up for local priorities to deliver the infrastructure our communities need to thrive,” Ms Price said. The Albanese Labor Government has ignored the needs of grassroots clubs. Only the Liberals have a plan to support our regional sporting communities and get Australia back on track.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I Am Fighting For - More CCTV in Geraldton and Mullewa
SENATOR JAMES PATERSON
SHADOW MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS AND CYBER SECURITY
THE HON MELISSA PRICE MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DURACK
$500,000 FOR CCTV IN GERALDTON AND MULLEWA
1 APRIL 2025
An elected Liberal Government will provide $500,000 from a revitalised Safer Communities Fund to install additional CCTV cameras in Geraldton and Mullewa.
Federal Member for Durack, Hon Melissa Price MP, said this funding would help ensure people in the Geraldton and Mullewa communities feel safer as they go about their daily lives.
"This funding is a direct response to the concerns raised by our community. I’ve heard first-hand from Geraldton and Mullewa residents that safety is a priority, and we’re responding with practical measures to help make public spaces safer for everyone,” Ms Price said.
“Expanding the City of Greater Geraldton’s CCTV network will give police and emergency services better tools to prevent and respond to crime. It’s about real action to support law enforcement and to give locals greater peace of mind.”
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Senator James Paterson said under a Dutton Liberal Government, the Geraldton and Mullewa communities will be stronger, more secure, and better supported to tackle crime.
“Getting Australia back on track means keeping Australia safe – safe for families, safe for businesses, and safe for communities,” Senator Paterson said.
"Projects delivered under the Safer Communities Fund will help protect local communities by ensuring they have appropriate security infrastructure in place such as CCTV cameras, alarm systems and security lighting."
This commitment is part of the Liberals’ plan to strengthen our local communities and get our country back on track.
ENDS.
Media contact: Jacob Chick 0406 406 798 (Shadow Minister Paterson)
Media contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395 (Hon Melissa Price MP)
I Am Fighting For - Storage at the Broome Rec Centre
The Hon Melissa Price MP, Federal Member for Durack, and an elected Liberal Government will commit $306,000 to upgrade storage facilities at the Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre (BRAC). This investment will support the West Kimberley Junior Football League (WKJFL) and other local sporting clubs.
With 26 teams and over 200 Auskickers, WKJFL is at the heart of the West Kimberley region and plays an important role in keeping young people engaged and connected. However, the league is struggling with a major challenge - a lack of storage space.
Currently, essential equipment including jumpers, footballs and even trailers are being stored at the homes of club members due to insufficient space at the BRAC shed. This presents serious logistical issues for the league, making it difficult to manage gear and maintain operations. This issue not only affects WKJFL but also other sporting groups that rely on the facility, including the Broome Soccer Association, Seniors West Kimberley Football League, Broome Cricket Association, Broome Touch Association and Broome Little Athletics.
Ms Price said that the Liberals are proud to partner with the Shire of Broome to deliver this vital project, ensuring the league and other local clubs have the infrastructure required to thrive.
“Sport is the lifeblood of regional communities like Broome, fostering resilience, keeping kids engaged and strengthening social connections for families. Without proper facilities, clubs struggle to deliver these benefits. An elected Liberal Government will ensure WKJFL and other local clubs can continue making a real difference in the community,” Ms Price said.
WKJFL have welcomed the funding commitment. “We are so excited for what's to come. This commitment will be a game-changer for our teams and volunteers. We thank Melissa for her ongoing support and for being an integral part of ensuring kids can enjoy basic sporting needs," said President Scott Hanna.
The Albanese Labor Government has ignored the needs of grassroots clubs. Only the Liberals have a plan to support our regional sporting communities and get Australia back on track.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I Am Fighting For - Stage 2 of the Bindoon Mountain Bike Park
Federal Member for Durack, Hon Melissa Price MP, has been fighting for crucial funding to deliver Stage 2 of the Bindoon Mountain Bike Park, building on the success of Stage 1. The expansion will introduce over 10 kilometres of new trails, including advanced double black trails, black and blue trails, and a dedicated walking trail, further cementing the park as a premier outdoor recreation destination.
A Dutton Liberal Government will invest $1.9 million for these upgrades, including a dual access way for emergency services. This commitment will drive economic and social benefits for the region.
Ms Price reaffirmed her commitment to securing the funding required for Stage 2. “The Bindoon Mountain Bike Park has been a tremendous success, drawing in riders, families, and visitors. There remains significant potential for further progress,” Ms Price said. “Stage 2 will build on this momentum by improving facilities and expanding trail options, making the park even more appealing to mountain bikers, hikers, and the wider community.”
The Shire of Chittering has also expressed strong support for securing funding, recognising the positive impact the park has already had on the local community. “Securing funding to complete the Bindoon Mountain Bike Park is crucial for enhancing community recreation, attracting tourists, and boosting the local economy through increased tourism and associated spending. New picnic shelters, an upgraded emergency access road, and additional trails will make the park a safer, more enjoyable destination for all,” said Shire of Chittering’s CEO, Melinda Prinsloo.
The upgrades to the Bindoon Mountain Bike Park will further strengthen its role as a key asset for the entire region. Federal Member for Durack, Melissa Price MP, is a dedicated champion for regional Western Australia, committed to securing the resources needed to grow and strengthen our local communities. Ms Price understands the unique challenges facing regional WA and is determined to ensure we receive the support we deserve.
Ends.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
I Am Fighting For - Shade over Newman Sports Courts
Federal Member for Durack, Hon Melissa Price MP, is fighting for crucial funding to deliver an all-weather shelter over the Pauline Mataka Sports Courts in Newman. This project will provide much-needed protection from the extreme Pilbara heat and ‘wet season’ rain, ensuring families and young people can safely enjoy sport all year round.
A Dutton Liberal Government will invest $2 million to deliver this essential infrastructure. This commitment will create a safer, more inclusive space for local families and sporting groups, with the Newman community already voicing strong support, recognising the vital role it will play in improving recreation opportunities and community wellbeing.
Ms Price reaffirmed her commitment to progressing this project. “Sport is the heart of regional communities like Newman—it brings people together, builds resilience, and gives young people a healthy, positive outlet,” Ms Price said. “However, the extreme heat in the Pilbara does make it tough to enjoy outdoor courts for much of the year. This investment will ensure local kids and families can keep playing the sports they love in a safe and comfortable environment.”
Ms Price also noted that the East Pilbara Shire had redeveloped these courts in 2022 through the Liberal Party’s highly successful Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. “This was a great investment for Newman, and it’s disappointing that Labor scrapped such a vital program that supported projects like this,” Ms Price said.
The all-weather shelter over the Pauline Mataka Sports Courts will be a game-changer for Newman, ensuring families, athletes, and community groups have a safe and modern facility to enjoy. Federal Member for Durack, Melissa Price MP, is committed to delivering for regional Western Australia and ensuring our communities get the support and investment they deserve.
Ends.
Media Contact: Jackie Perry 0427 587 395, jackie.perry@aph.gov.au
Amy Pedersen - Inspirational Women of Durack
❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Amy Pedersen has called Karratha home for 16 years, balancing her roles as a dedicated Nursing Coordinator and Clinical Facilitator at the Pilbara Kimberley University Centre (PKUC) and a Registered Nurse at Karratha Health Campus. Passionate about strengthening regional healthcare, Amy plays a key role in delivering PKUC’s Nursing Residential School in partnership with CQ University, helping Bachelor of Nursing students develop essential clinical skills for their future careers. With students traveling from across WA to participate, Amy’s work ensures aspiring nurses in regional areas receive the hands-on training and support they need to succeed ⭐
An interview with Amy
Tell us about you?
My name is Amy Pedersen. I have lived in Karratha for 16 years with my husband and two children. I work at the Nursing Coordinator and Clinical Facilitator at the Pilbara Kimberley University Centre (PKUC). I also work clinically as a Registered Nurse at Karratha Health Campus.
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
I would let my younger self know that you are only limited by your own self applied limitations. If you have the want and will to achieve a goal, hard work and determination can get you there. Don't take no for answer
What word/s describe your leadership style?
Caring and empathetic but also enjoys the facts to guide my decision making.
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
Living in the Regions can provide unique and incredible opportunities both personally and professionally. There are many conceived constraints and limitations associated with living in the Regions but I think many people would be surprised at the resources and opportunities available to women choosing to live in remote locations. I believe living up here in the regions has increased my professional opportunities and experiences as you must be resourceful and think outside the box to obtain an optimum outcome in many situations. We all wear many hats up here in regional WA and knowing that you can have time to fit in and juggle your commitments and seek and participate in growth opportunities as they are available to you is a very exciting and rewarding thing.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
My role models are the women out there doing it all. The mums who are working in the school canteens and managing or coaching their children's sports team, while juggling their work schedules and contributing to the communities they live in too. It takes a village to raise strong and well-adjusted kids and I aspire and appreciate all of those women out there who are giving to our wonderful community and juggle multiple roles within their lives.
We thank you Amy, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙
Heather Jones - Inspirational Women of Durack
❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Heather Jones is a trailblazer in the transport industry, dedicated to promoting heavy vehicle operation as a rewarding career and improving road safety. Born and bred in the Pilbara, she turned her passion for trucks into a lifelong mission, mentoring and training aspiring drivers—especially women—through her unique 160-hour hands-on program. As the founder of Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls and former leader of Success Transport, Heather has worked tirelessly to challenge industry stereotypes, advocate for better conditions, and highlight the professionalism of truck drivers. Her impact extends beyond the road, shaping policy through her contributions to numerous boards and committees. ⭐
An interview with Heather
Tell us about you?
I actively promote professional heavy vehicle operation as a long-term, rewarding career and am a passionate advocate for road safety. My dedication to supporting new drivers led me to develop an in-depth, 160-hour hands-on training program, where I mentor, support, and encourage both women and men to enter the industry. I have also played a key role in numerous boards, committees, and councils, working to improve conditions for truck drivers and strengthen the transport sector.
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
Never ever give up follow your passion, reach out to like minded people for support.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
Liz Martin, Nola Bransgrove, Phyllis Jones. All women who were real trucking pioneers
We thank you Heather, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙
Jasmyn Allen - Inspirational Women of Durack
❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Jasmyn Allen grew up on a family farm in Victoria’s Wimmera region, where a strong sense of community and connection shaped her love for rural life. Her adventurous spirit led her to the West Kimberley as a governess, then onto station work and remote childcare services across Australia, where she embraced the challenges and rewards of life in the bush. Now settled on a Yuna broadacre grain farm with her family, Jasmyn is a passionate community advocate. From organising epic local events like ‘The Yuna Event’ to representing her community at the state level, she is dedicated to bringing people together and giving back to the place she calls home ⭐
An interview with Jasmyn
Tell us about you?
I grew up on a family farm in the Wimmera region of Victoria. I was blessed to grown up with my Mum and Grandparents on the farm and felt very connected to a beautiful country community where we all spent good times with each, through the farming season and our family life. As a child I was exposed many friends of our family that would come and sit at our kitchen table and tell stories of where they were from and what they had been up to since their last visit, it installed a curiosity in me of what else was out there wide and far across Australia to see. On leaving school I firstly spent time at Ag College then took up a Governess position on a large property in the West Kimberly region. First car trip north saw me with a blown up motor on the side of the road near Halls Creek! Over the next 5 years or so I settled into the most fabulous work opportunities on stations both as Station Cook, and governess and then spent time working for a specialist childcare program based out of Queensland servicing remote families in the far west and north and over into the Barkly region of the NT. These moments in my life, showed me that getting out there and having a go is everything in life, and I was lucky enough to come upon some excellent people happy to show me their way of life and encouraged me to keep on learning. Fast forward Im now happily married and living in the Midwest of WA on a broadacre grain farm with our with kids and fabulous rural community. Giving back to my community has been my greatest joy, weather its purchasing gifts for kids for the local Christmas tree, organising epic events to get people together (‘The Yuna Event’ in 2024 was EPIC!) or spending time on community committees and representing our people at state level its been so worthwhile to be a part of it all. If there is one way for other to get to know your community, its to get out there and tell your story!
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
Someone once told me, that if you have been nominated to do something... Its because people have faith in your ability to do it. Confidence is key but also dont be afraid to take risks, get out there and live life, getting into some 'interesting moments' in life can lead to valuble experinces and opportunities that you might not have considered. Build and nurture relationships, the professional and mates you encounter along the way are what will prop you up when you need to work as a team and most importantly stay true to yourself, Integrity, kindness and trust will always be respected by others, but most of all allow you to respect yourself - your values really do matter.
What word/s describe your leadership style?
Friendly, kind, nurturing and respectful. I have a deep love of our rural families, kids and people in the bush - but nothing compares to just being a good friend and getting to know people in your own backyard. Our regional, rural and remote communities are full of the most fabulous people, next time you come across someone new that you haven't chatted to for a while, take the time to ask some questions and get to know them, you might just brighten someone's day and find a new perspective on life that you never knew you needed!
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
Believe in your impact. Every small action counts. Whether its in your community or beyond, your contributions can make a significant difference. You are capable of amazing things, and your journey is unique and valuable. Keep pushing forward and inspire those around you! Also, don't let geographical boundaries limit your impact, its part of your story and what you bring to the table, make it work for you and allow your background and experiences shape the narrative of how you choose to advocate for those around you. Embrace your identity and let it shine in everything you do.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
Audrey Hepburn, for her style and grace - I've always loved her catchphrase of "Elegance is an Attitude" As I travel through the journey of life I find myself drawn to these words, as they help to keep me grounded and to enjoy the moment, to be eloquent in the way you put yourself out to the world is something that gives you the ability to put yourself out there and take on new challenges and experiences with courage. Audrey would have been a fabulous farm wife, chocolate cake always ready for someone to drop by for a coffee and capable of getting out there and getting stuff done.
We thank you Jasmyn, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙
Peta Baer - Inspirational Women of Durack
❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Peta Baer is a passionate community leader in Newman, Western Australia, dedicating over 30 hours a week to volunteering as a gymnastics coach, Scouts leader, and Shire of East Pilbara councillor. A fierce advocate for inclusivity and neurodivergent representation, Peta has overcome personal challenges, including her autism and ADHD diagnosis, to champion opportunities for all. Her commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces—whether through sport, youth programs, or advocacy—has made a lasting impact on her community. Whether fighting for a new gymnastics facility or standing in Parliament House to push for change, Peta’s drive to uplift others is truly inspiring ⭐
An interview with Peta
Tell us about you?
I’m Peta Baer, a community leader, proud scout leader, and passionate advocate for inclusivity and community connection. Living in Newman, Western Australia, I thrive on bringing people together and making the community a better place. Diagnosed as autistic later in life, I’ve spent a lot of time unlearning expectations and embracing who I am. Advocacy has become a big part of my journey, and one of my proudest moments was standing in Parliament House, delivering a speech on the need for greater neurodivergent representation in leadership. Outside of my council and community work, I’m a scout leader (known as “Nook”), where I get to foster adventure, resilience, and fun in young people. I’m also heavily involved in the local gymnastics club, helping to create a supportive and empowering space for kids to develop confidence and skills. Between juggling family life, managing my hectic schedule, and working to make Newman a more connected and inclusive place, I’m always looking for the next challenge, preferably one that can create a better community for me and my family.
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
If I could give my younger self any advice, it would be this: take up space. You deserve a seat at the table, and your voice matters. When I was younger, I constantly questioned whether I was the right person to create change—why me? Why not someone else? But over time, I’ve learned to reframe that thinking. Instead of asking why me?, I now ask why NOT me? That shift has helped me embrace my passion and knowledge, using them to make a real difference.
What word/s describe your leadership style?
If I had to describe my leadership style, I’d say I like to give people the space to grow, make mistakes, and develop their own passion and creativity. There’s something really special about letting others feed off your passion and using that energy to help them achieve their goals—being part of that process is incredibly rewarding..
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
Women are the backbone of rural, regional, and remote Western Australia—the glue that holds our communities together. I hope we can all find our people, build strong networks, and support each other in developing the resilience needed to face the unique challenges of isolated living. Together, we are stronger.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
I’m inspired by so many incredible people, especially the strong and successful women around me. I want to give a special shoutout to those who have had a profound impact on who I am—Sarah Stampfli, Cara Clews, Lillie Anderson, Lou Lockyer, Jenna Denton, Mikayla Love, Taylor Roberson, and Stacey Timms. And, of course, my daughters, Lexie and Ruby, who inspire me every day to be the best version of myself. Their strength and guidance keep me motivated, especially when life gets tough.
We thank you Peta, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙
Gloria Jacob - Inspirational Women of Durack
❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Gloria Jacob is a passionate advocate for Port Hedland, a former business owner, and a community leader dedicated to regional growth and inclusivity. Arriving in Hedland in the 1980s as a young nurse, she later broke barriers in the male-dominated hardware and steel industry while raising her two sons. Through her roles in business, council, and community organisations, Gloria has championed opportunities for families, better infrastructure, and stronger services. Gloria believes Port Hedland is more than a mining town—it’s a thriving community where hard work and determination can create lasting success⭐
An interview with Gloria
Tell us about you?
I am the second youngest of eight children, with five brothers, and of Burmese heritage. I moved to Port Hedland in the 1980s and started my career as a nurse at the old hospital. In 1990, I took on a new challenge, purchasing Hedland Hardware and Steel Supplies with my Uncle Percy, stepping into a male-dominated industry where women in management were almost unheard of. Running a seven-day-a-week business while raising two sons and building relationships within the community was incredibly tough, but it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the need to utilise your circle of support to give you strength. In early 2000s, I discovered my "gayside," as I like to call it. Falling in love with a woman was a journey in itself, but coming out brought challenges I hadn’t fully anticipated. The abuse both verbal and physical was confronting, and dealing with the maliciousness of some in our community was at times heartbreaking. My partner at the time and I were mature enough to handle it, but sadly, this kind of discrimination still exists, especially in remote and regional areas. Too many young people live in fear, feeling unsafe to be who they truly are. Today 40 plus years on I am a passionate advocate for Port Hedland and our diverse community. I feel self-assured and grateful for the experiences, skillsets and relationships I have attained through my years in business, serving on Council and the various roles as a volunteer and member of this beautiful community. Life isn’t easy in the regions you have to find strength, seek support, and be a support to others.
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
Trust yourself always, you are stronger than you think. Resilience is everything, challenges will shape you and don’t let fear silence you. Whether in business, relationships, or standing up for yourself, use your voice.
What word/s describe your leadership style?
I believe I am an inclusive and strategic leader. I take accountability seriously and am resilient by nature. I love to collaborate with others and seek to empower those I work with.
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
There are many opportunities in the region for young and mature women, and I encourage them to believe in themselves always and seize their moment. Resilience will be your greatest asset, you do not have to fit-in to belong, choose your path you don't need permission to chase your dreams, you can do it!
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
My biggest role model was my father George, an immigrant brave and determined, and a man of faith who provided his 8 children with the best opportunity in life. The other is Captain James T Kirk who inspired me to go and explore life.
We thank you Gloria, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙