Ruby Hutchison became the first woman member of the Legislative Council when she was elected on 22 May 1954, and throughout her 17-year parliamentary career was the only woman in the upper house. In 2024 we celebrate the 70th anniversary of Ruby’s extraordinary achievements.
Ruby joined the ALP as a sixteen year old and remained a life member.
Born in Footscray, Melbourne, 1892, Ruby moved west as a child.
Ruby was first endorsed as a candidate in 1949 but was not elected until 1954.
Ruby was active in the community and established the ACA.
On 17 June 1954, Ruby gave her inaugural speech in the Legislative Council.
Ruby died in 1974, aged 82 and is buried at Karrakatta Cemetery.
Read exactly what Ruby said on the floor of the Legislative Council in Hansard.
Find articles, book chapters, a video and more on Ruby’s life.