Dad (Alan Griffiths), my sis and me with former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam

I grew up in a home where Gough Whitlam loomed large.

His education policies allowed my dad to study Law and Economics at University; the first in his family to do so.

We met him several times and on one occasion I mentioned I wanted to become a journalist.

“An honourable profession,” the former Prime Minister replied (pretty sure I detected a smirk).

Following his passing overnight at age 98, women’s groups across the nation are applauding his contribution.

So I thought you may appreciate a quick breakdown of what the big guy actually did for women in this country.

(You’ll be the super smart one at your next dinner party)

WHITLAM’S ACHIEVEMENTS FOR WOMEN

• INTRODUCED EQUAL PAY
• PASSED MATERNITY LEAVE ACT
• FOUGHT TO ENSURE WOMEN’S WORKPLACE CONDITIONS WERE FAIR
• REOPENED EQUAL PAY CASE – DECISION IN 1972 SAW 500,000 WOMEN BECOME ELIGIBLE FOR FULL PAY
• EXTENDED ADULT MINIMUM WAGE TO INCLUDE WOMEN
• APPOINTED WOMEN’S ADVISOR TO THE PRIME MINISTER
• REMOVED ‘LUXURY’ TAX ON CONTRACEPTIVES
• PASSED FAMILY LAW ACT – ESTABLISHED FAMILY COURT
• INTRODUCED THE SINGLE MOTHER’S BENEFIT