A new Patron for Western Chances.

We’re excited to announce we have a new Patron, The Hon {TAG} Julia Gillard AC. Australia’s first female Prime Minister from 2010-2013, Julia has long had a commitment to social justice and inclusion. On accepting the role, Julia said:

“I have always believed that everyone has a right to the transformative power of a good quality education. Western Chances helps turn that right into a reality by making sure young people, who may not otherwise have the means, are able to access the education they deserve. I am delighted to be involved with Western Chances as Patron.”

Julia was a long-time resident of Melbourne’s western suburbs and some of you will remember that she nominated Western Chances as her favourite charity when she was on “Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader” in 2009. She generously donated her winnings of $100,000 to us! Julia is currently also the Chair of Beyond Blue, one of Australia’s leading mental health awareness bodies; Chair of the global funding body for education in developing countries, the Global Partnership for Education; and the inaugural Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at Kings College London, which through research, practice and advocacy, is addressing women’s under-representation in leadership.

We’re delighted to have Julia on board, especially given her very busy schedule, and look forward to working with her to support young people in Melbourne’s west.