Lesley Bartlett Explained

Lesley Helene Bartlett OAM (1927–2018) was a Brisbane-based activist in women’s rights and assistance to the unemployed.^{[1] [2]}

Activism

Bartlett served as national president of the Women’s Action Alliance (Australia),^{[3] [4] [5]} and was actively involved in formulating Australia’s response to the United Nations Decade for Women. She also led local assistance for the unemployed in Brisbane.^[6]

Views

Bartlett was an independent-minded advocate for women’s rights and for the poor. In 1980, she claimed that some initiatives from women’s rights activists gave the impression that “Australian women are a lower form of life awaiting liberation”, and was insistent that the women’s rights should include the family.^[7] She was also vocal in advocating for assistance to single-income families.^[8]

Recognition

The work of Lesley Bartlett was recognized in 2001 with the awarding of an Order of Australia Medal.^[9] The citation reads: “For services to the community, particularly through issues affecting women and support for employment creation industries”.^[10]

Notes and References

1. Australian Government website for Honours, www.itsanhnour.gov.au, accessed 20 December 2001.
2. Don Cunningham. A passion for justice. Catholic Leader. 21 July 1996.
3. Call to boost family rebates. The Canberra Times. Thursday 1 May 1980
4. Helping women air their opinions. The Sun. Sunday 29 March 1979.
5. Women care for those in the home.(Dears Readers: Miranda). The Weekly Times. 11 April 1979.
6. Australian Government website for Honours, www.itsanhnour.gov.au, accessed 20 December 2001.
7. Woman critical of proposed plan of action. The Canberra Times. Monday 6 March 1980. p.8
8. Call to boost family rebates. The Canberra Times. Thursday 1 May 1980
9. Commonwealth of Australia Gazette. Special Edition. Monday 11 June 2001.
10. Australian Government website for Honours, www.itsanhnour.gov.au, accessed 20 December 2001.