Inside Politics: Tanya Plibersek on parliament's women problem

She is the longest-serving woman in the House of Representatives - and has been, for many years, one of Labor’s most high profile politicians. Tanya Plibersek entered the federal parliament at just 28 years of age - and since then, has made a name for herself campaigning for social justice reform on issues like paid parental leave and violence against women. She’s held numerous portfolios, including Housing, the Status of Women, and Health.

Last year, when the Albanese government was voted into parliament, she was handed a new portfolio - arguably the most difficult portfolio. She was appointed Minister for the Environment and Water - just as UN experts were warning that climate change was the greatest threat the world had ever faced.

The new role has not come without controversy. Plibersek green-lit a new coal mine in Queensland, sparking criticisms from conservation groups, and just recently, she was taken to court over a decision she made about coal mine assessments.

She’s also just lived through an incredibly feral week in federal politics, a week which has many wondering if progress has been made at all on parliament’s so-called women problem.

Today, chief political reporter David Crowe and columnist Jacqueline Maley are joined by Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek.

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