The Honourable Jodie Harrison MP is the Member for Charlestown, currently serving in her third term since she was first elected in 2014.
Jodie was appointed Minister for Women, Seniors and the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault on April 5 following the outcome of the 2023 NSW State Election. In her first year as Minister, Jodie has presided over several achievements across her portfolios.
These include:
- Shared Equity Scheme expansion to include domestic violence victim-survivors and introduction of a Bond Waiver Scheme to make it easier for victim-survivors to secure a rental property.
- Appointment of the first stand-alone Women’s Safety Commissioner in NSW.
- Establishing the Women’s Advisory Council to bolster gender equality outcomes in NSW
- Energy bill relief for eligible low-income pensioners and self-funded retirees.
Jodie’s top priority is to put primary prevention and early intervention at the heart of the NSW Government’s strategy to counter Domestic and Family Violence. This approach will hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and connects them with the programs they need to end the cycle of violence.
Keeping victim-survivors safe is also critical – and to this end Jodie has oversight of the delivery of the “modern Core and Cluster” women’s refuges. This program will support an additional 2900 women and children fleeing violence annually across NSW.
Prior to her election to Parliament, Jodie served her community in Local Government. She was first elected as a Councillor for Lake Macquarie Council in 2008 and went on to become the first popularly elected female Mayor of the City.
Jodie’s life experience as a member of the Salvation Army in her early years and union delegate helped her develop a passion for social justice.
Jodie is a Charlestown local and proud mother of two adult children – India and Phillip.