Andrea Mason (political candidate) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Andrea Mason
Leader of the Family First Party
In office 2004–2005
Preceded by	Position established
Succeeded by	Steve Fielding
Personal details
Born	1968 (age 56–57)
Nationality	Australian
Political party	Family First Party

Andrea Mason, born in 1968, is an important Australian leader. She is known for being the first Aboriginal woman to lead a political party in Australia during a federal election. This happened in 2004 when she led the Family First Party. She also worked as the Chief Executive Officer for the Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Women's Council (NPYWC) from 2015 to 2019.

Andrea Mason's Early Life and Education

Andrea Mason was born in Subiaco, Western Australia in 1968. Her father, Ben Mason, was an Aboriginal Christian pastor. He helped start the Aboriginal Evangelical Fellowship. Andrea grew up in Western Australia before her family moved to Adelaide, South Australia in 1979.

Studying and Sports

After finishing high school, Andrea received a scholarship for Netball. She went to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra for two years. When she returned to Adelaide, she studied at the South Australian Institute of Technology. She earned a degree in Aboriginal Affairs and Public Administration in 1988.

Working in Public Service

From 1989, Andrea worked for the South Australian Public Service. She helped with programs about housing and jobs. Later, in 1999, she began studying for a law degree at the University of Adelaide. She finished her law studies in 2002. After that, she worked as a personal assistant for Andrew Evans. He was a leader of the Family First Party in South Australia.

Leading a Political Party

On August 8, 2004, Andrea Mason made history. She became the first Indigenous Australian woman to lead an Australian political party. The Family First Party chose her as their national leader.

Running in the Election

Andrea ran in the 2004 Australian federal election. She was the main candidate for the Family First Party in South Australia for the Australian Senate. Although she did not win a seat, her leadership was a very important step for Aboriginal women in Australian politics.

Later Work and Recognition

In 2019, Andrea Mason was chosen for an important role. She became a commissioner for the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. This group looks into how people with disabilities are treated.

Awards and Achievements

Andrea Mason has received awards for her work. In 2016, she was named the Telstra Australian Businesswoman of the Year. This award recognized her leadership and achievements.