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Charlotte Walker Becomes Youngest Senator In Australian History At 21

Charlotte Walker celebrated her 21st birthday on election night earlier this month — and today made history by becoming the youngest Senator in Australia’s history, winning a Senate seat for Labor in South Australia.

Walker joined the Labor Party at just 18 and now serves as president of SA Young Labor, while also working as a staffer at the Australian Services Union. In July, she’ll head to ‘Senate school’, backed by a six-year term, a salary of around $200,000, and the distinction of being the first parliamentarian born in the 2000s.

On her official campaign socials, Walker sought to connect with young voters through a mix of content, from makeup tutorials to Minecraft livestreams, all while discussing Labor policies.

“I do want to represent all South Australians but I think I’m uniquely placed to speak to and relate to young people,” Walker said.

“What I was hearing at the booths were concerns about the cost of living, uni students especially doing practical (placements) and trying to make ends meet, getting into the housing market, and having to stay at home longer.”

Earlier this month, SA senator and Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia’s parliament was “best when it represents all of Australia, including our young people”.

“Charlotte is an intelligent and principled woman who would add to the diversity of the Senate,” Wong said.