What do you think?
Rate this book
Sex, Lies and Question Time
In Sex, Lies and Question Time, former MP Kate Ellis explores the good, the bad and the ugly of life as a woman in Australian politics.
Seventy-seven years after the first woman entered Australian parliament, female politicians are still the minority. They cop scrutiny over their appearance, their sex lives, their parenting and their portfolios in a way few of their male colleagues do. It’s time to call bullshit on the toxic Canberra culture.
Alongside her own experiences from fifteen years in parliament, Kate Ellis reveals a frank and fascinating picture of women across Australian politics, including Julia Gillard, Julie Bishop, Linda Burney, Sussan Ley, Penny Wong, Sarah Hanson-Young and Pauline Hanson. Kate explores issues like sexism, motherhood, appearances, social media, the sisterhood and, of course, sex. But she also celebrates everything Australian female politicians have achieved.
Wry, candid and provocative, Sex, Lies and Question Time is a powerful call to demand more of our leaders and our institutions. It reminds us we need greater diversity to shape a fairer Australia, where ‘women’s issues’ are everyone’s issues. A better parliament means a better Australia. The stakes are high, and the standards should be too.
Seventy-seven years after the first woman entered Australian parliament, female politicians are still the minority. They cop scrutiny over their appearance, their sex lives, their parenting and their portfolios in a way few of their male colleagues do. It’s time to call bullshit on the toxic Canberra culture.
Alongside her own experiences from fifteen years in parliament, Kate Ellis reveals a frank and fascinating picture of women across Australian politics, including Julia Gillard, Julie Bishop, Linda Burney, Sussan Ley, Penny Wong, Sarah Hanson-Young and Pauline Hanson. Kate explores issues like sexism, motherhood, appearances, social media, the sisterhood and, of course, sex. But she also celebrates everything Australian female politicians have achieved.
Wry, candid and provocative, Sex, Lies and Question Time is a powerful call to demand more of our leaders and our institutions. It reminds us we need greater diversity to shape a fairer Australia, where ‘women’s issues’ are everyone’s issues. A better parliament means a better Australia. The stakes are high, and the standards should be too.
288 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2021
45 people are currently reading
1204 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
July 1, 2021
This is a quick and easy read, with some excellent chapters particularly about media tactics used to demean women. Due to the timing of its release, I expected the book to address sexual harassment / assault in Parliament, but this was not covered.
There is a lot of overlap with "Women and Leadership" by Julia Gillard and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, including some examples that are exactly the same. This book didn't really contribute too much that was new to me.
As expected, this book is left-leaning. I was disappointed that the language was ableist, and the content lacking in intersectionality. It would've been great for Ellis to expand more on her interviews with Penny Wong, Anne Aly and Kelly Wright to address the barriers for more marginalised groups (homophobia/islamophobia/disability) - these things only got a fleeting mention.
Overall, I think this book discourages women from entering Parliament.
There is a lot of overlap with "Women and Leadership" by Julia Gillard and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, including some examples that are exactly the same. This book didn't really contribute too much that was new to me.
As expected, this book is left-leaning. I was disappointed that the language was ableist, and the content lacking in intersectionality. It would've been great for Ellis to expand more on her interviews with Penny Wong, Anne Aly and Kelly Wright to address the barriers for more marginalised groups (homophobia/islamophobia/disability) - these things only got a fleeting mention.
Overall, I think this book discourages women from entering Parliament.
July 19, 2021
An engaging, personally voiced memoir of life as a woman in Australian politics. I’m sad to say that Ellis’ description and analysis of the misogyny experienced by women in parliament in Australia didn’t surprise me. I was disheartened to better understand how systemically and culturally entrenched these attitudes are in ‘the way politics is done’. I think Ellis does a great job of showing how this is felt and experienced by a range of real women in politics, and softens the reading experience by illustrating how these women have contributed to progress, making clear arguments for a way forward, and advocating strongly for the value that women and other minorities have in the work of politics. Much of this memoir is frustrating to read about, but ultimately it is a hopeful story.
March 21, 2021
Never has the release of a book been more timely! This is extremely readable, even for those with little knowledge and interest in Australian politics. It makes you angry at the injustice of the treatment of women in Australian politics, yet leaves you hopeful that we are at a stage of critical change. A must read!!
May 13, 2021
I always feel a bit silly “rating” a memoir, it’s just the authors retelling of their experience after all and who am I to judge that?
However, I gave this three stars only because there was nothing new in this book for me, and it didn’t challenge me or change my perspective or have a huge impact on me enough to make me think like some other books I’ve read which I’ve rated higher.
Anyone who follows politics and has been paying attention to the treatment of women in politics will have heard most of the stories and incidents in this book. It is somewhat shocking to realise just how many incidents there are when they are presented next to each other in the one place though.
There were some interesting insights on how MPs are juggling parenthood and what changes have been and still could be made to enable an easier combination of family and political life - especially given the way that COVID has challenged the status quo around “face time” or in-person attendance.
There was also some interesting ideas around the merits (or not) of a potential cross party women’s caucus.
The stories of friendships and support were encouraging, and Kates voice is non-political for the most part which I prefer in this case- which discusses so many issues that should have bipartisan approaches. It’s an easy to read and accessible book.
However, I gave this three stars only because there was nothing new in this book for me, and it didn’t challenge me or change my perspective or have a huge impact on me enough to make me think like some other books I’ve read which I’ve rated higher.
Anyone who follows politics and has been paying attention to the treatment of women in politics will have heard most of the stories and incidents in this book. It is somewhat shocking to realise just how many incidents there are when they are presented next to each other in the one place though.
There were some interesting insights on how MPs are juggling parenthood and what changes have been and still could be made to enable an easier combination of family and political life - especially given the way that COVID has challenged the status quo around “face time” or in-person attendance.
There was also some interesting ideas around the merits (or not) of a potential cross party women’s caucus.
The stories of friendships and support were encouraging, and Kates voice is non-political for the most part which I prefer in this case- which discusses so many issues that should have bipartisan approaches. It’s an easy to read and accessible book.
September 21, 2021
I highly anticipated this book, especially with the recent issues in Australian parliament – it was very timely. However, there was nothing new or insightful (maybe it my expectations because others have rated this book highly). I already follow politics so most of the stories and incidents in this book was going over what I already knew and already covered in the media. In fact, a lot of it was covered in her interview on the ABC and that inspired me to want to read the book, but it was like when you watch the movie trailer to only find out it was the whole plot!
The 2nd half of the book was Kate Ellis’s personal experiences and those of her female colleagues and seemed like a roll call of a politician bragging about their achievements and legacies. She also kept talking about the parliament vs the private sector and how far ahead the private sector is. There was never a mention (or I missed it!) of the public sector which is quite different from parliament. No acknowledgement of the public servants who implement the policies of politicians in often difficult circumstances and those visionary public servants who develop outstanding policy (often over many years) only for a Minister who needs to make an “announcement” or has an idea but isn’t quite sure what it could be, to take that public servants work and present it as their vision or legacy.
What I did like was the insights into how female MP’s and Ministers balance their family responsibilities with work and its no surprise that they need an incredibly supportive and understanding partner and/or family network. Same as men, most men would not be as successful in politics or the business world without a partner at home to look after the children and run the home and this has traditionally been, and still is, women.
I also liked that Kate Ellis acknowledged and interviewed women from all political parties and this bipartisan approach was refreshing, if sometimes I could still hear the bias (unconscious or not)! This book was ok and its 2 stars from me.
The 2nd half of the book was Kate Ellis’s personal experiences and those of her female colleagues and seemed like a roll call of a politician bragging about their achievements and legacies. She also kept talking about the parliament vs the private sector and how far ahead the private sector is. There was never a mention (or I missed it!) of the public sector which is quite different from parliament. No acknowledgement of the public servants who implement the policies of politicians in often difficult circumstances and those visionary public servants who develop outstanding policy (often over many years) only for a Minister who needs to make an “announcement” or has an idea but isn’t quite sure what it could be, to take that public servants work and present it as their vision or legacy.
What I did like was the insights into how female MP’s and Ministers balance their family responsibilities with work and its no surprise that they need an incredibly supportive and understanding partner and/or family network. Same as men, most men would not be as successful in politics or the business world without a partner at home to look after the children and run the home and this has traditionally been, and still is, women.
I also liked that Kate Ellis acknowledged and interviewed women from all political parties and this bipartisan approach was refreshing, if sometimes I could still hear the bias (unconscious or not)! This book was ok and its 2 stars from me.
August 26, 2021
A very well written personal account of women’s experiences in Australian politics. We have a long way to go as a nation!
May 22, 2021
Honestly I was so excited to read this and it sort of ended up being pretty disappointing. Unfortunately I don't think Kate Ellis is a compelling writer and while she did talk to a variety of women across the political landscape somehow this still felt like a manifesto of some type? It didn't dig that hard, it was all surface level shit that we basically already knew that just sort of happened to come out at the right time. Like honestly, I can just imagine how excited the publisher of this book was when Brittany Higgins came forward with her story.
There's nothing new in here. We already know that the Australian parliament was sexist as hell (not to mention racist, homophobic, etc.... didn't Peter Dutton just tell the defence department to stop being so ~woke~. Like can you imagine??? Appalling.) And while Kate Ellis does offer some insight into the workings of parliament and some individual experiences of herself and some other female parliamentarians, I feel like this could have been an informative article of some kind? It just felt like we went over the same material over and over and everything was sort of redundant.
It just wasn't worth it for me.
There's nothing new in here. We already know that the Australian parliament was sexist as hell (not to mention racist, homophobic, etc.... didn't Peter Dutton just tell the defence department to stop being so ~woke~. Like can you imagine??? Appalling.) And while Kate Ellis does offer some insight into the workings of parliament and some individual experiences of herself and some other female parliamentarians, I feel like this could have been an informative article of some kind? It just felt like we went over the same material over and over and everything was sort of redundant.
It just wasn't worth it for me.
June 15, 2021
I got past the halfway mark but couldn’t finish this book because unfortunately I don’t think I am its intended audience. Kate Ellis goes into detail about the ways in which she experiences systemic sexism during her time as a young parliamentarian. She purports that her intention is to encourage more women to participate in Australian politics by being transparent about the obstacles. She quotes Gillard on how knowledge is power and how knowing more about the obstacles doesn’t necessarily hinder or scare women from joining politics, but in fact empowers them with knowledge the current/previous cohorts of female parliamentarians didn’t possess.
While it is clear that Ellis has either personally heard, interviewed or simply read about experiences of other MPs in her position, I felt that she took the information and stories available to her and somehow used it to validate her own experiences and identifies. A very privileged, white, heteronormative, young woman in a metropolitan area identity to be precise.
She refers to MPs from diverse backgrounds, but only to draw a thread of relatability to herself. Which I’m sure is the book someone would read and benefit from - unfortunately not me.
She not only refers to Australia at one point as something along the lines of a great multicultural success (which as a POC in this country you will most certainly chuckle at), but tries to credit men like Turnbull for bravely calling out the sexism inherent in the political sphere. She emphasises a punitive approach to internet trolls, heavily implying a carceral approach, while in the same breath praising Aboriginal communities and their resilience (without mentioning the same punitive, carceral approaches that cost them their lives on an almost daily basis). She gives Pauline Hanson a platform on her book (because of course sexism unites us all and feminism isn’t intersectional in the least), while in the same breath praising Anne Aly for being the first Muslim MP.
There are many things that can be true at once, not mutually exclusive - this book is for those wanting to know the very specific experiences Kate Ellis faced in parliament, and perhaps how it compares to the larger conversation about the Canberra bubble. It certainly isn’t a great insight into feminism, because it completely disregards the rights of many other minorities in its quest to focus purely on gender - and so this book is certainly not for me.
I found Gillard’s book on the same topics better, although not perfect by any means. If you would like to know a bit more about women in power and how they stay there, I’d recommend that book as it’s a bit more insightful and a bit less problematic.
While it is clear that Ellis has either personally heard, interviewed or simply read about experiences of other MPs in her position, I felt that she took the information and stories available to her and somehow used it to validate her own experiences and identifies. A very privileged, white, heteronormative, young woman in a metropolitan area identity to be precise.
She refers to MPs from diverse backgrounds, but only to draw a thread of relatability to herself. Which I’m sure is the book someone would read and benefit from - unfortunately not me.
She not only refers to Australia at one point as something along the lines of a great multicultural success (which as a POC in this country you will most certainly chuckle at), but tries to credit men like Turnbull for bravely calling out the sexism inherent in the political sphere. She emphasises a punitive approach to internet trolls, heavily implying a carceral approach, while in the same breath praising Aboriginal communities and their resilience (without mentioning the same punitive, carceral approaches that cost them their lives on an almost daily basis). She gives Pauline Hanson a platform on her book (because of course sexism unites us all and feminism isn’t intersectional in the least), while in the same breath praising Anne Aly for being the first Muslim MP.
There are many things that can be true at once, not mutually exclusive - this book is for those wanting to know the very specific experiences Kate Ellis faced in parliament, and perhaps how it compares to the larger conversation about the Canberra bubble. It certainly isn’t a great insight into feminism, because it completely disregards the rights of many other minorities in its quest to focus purely on gender - and so this book is certainly not for me.
I found Gillard’s book on the same topics better, although not perfect by any means. If you would like to know a bit more about women in power and how they stay there, I’d recommend that book as it’s a bit more insightful and a bit less problematic.
September 15, 2021
3.5 stars rounded down
For those who: loved ‘Women and Leadership’ by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, are wanting to understand the female experience in Australian politics or are intrigued by the “Canberra bubble” - this one’s for you!
SEX, LIES AND QUESTION TIME is a searing insight into the treatment of women in Australian politics. It obviously comes at a topical time too - with the inquiry into the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins being suspended for a second time.
There were three chapters I particularly loved. First, the discussion on weaponising sexual gossip infuriated me in the best way possible - Ellis described the ways that the sex lives of female politicians (or rumours of their sex lives) were used as a way to put them off their game in parliament or undermine their credibility amongst their colleagues. I also really enjoyed reading the chapter titled ‘She’s Wearing What?’, which detailed the media’s obsession with how women in politics look, as opposed to how they think and perform. Finally, I was moved by the chapter on ‘The Politics of Motherhood’ which outlines how women are stuck between a rock and a hard place: if they’re without children, they are ‘deliberately barren’ (🤮 still can’t believe these words were uttered by liberal Senator Heffernan about Gillard); but if they have young children, they’re criticised for choosing to work away from their family.
As I have found with most texts on feminism (with the exception of maybe Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall and Wordslut by Amanda Montell), this book does not include the experiences of all women, with only minor references to queer women and women of colour. It would have been great to hear more about the WOC politicians that she scarcely mentioned - this is one of the reasons why I found Gillard and Okonjo-Iweala’s book on the same topic more inclusive, better formatted and better researched.
Nonetheless I felt Ellis did a great job in outlining her own lived experience as a female MP. I did also appreciated her bipartisan approach in interviewing women from various political parties (though overall, it was clear that this book was left-leaning). Overall, this is a really accessible memoir about politics, even for those with less interest or knowledge in the topic. Obviously this book shows we have lengths to go in terms of what an appropriate workplace in politics should look like - the awareness raised and discussions prompted as a result of this book are welcomed.
This was a gifted copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
For those who: loved ‘Women and Leadership’ by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, are wanting to understand the female experience in Australian politics or are intrigued by the “Canberra bubble” - this one’s for you!
SEX, LIES AND QUESTION TIME is a searing insight into the treatment of women in Australian politics. It obviously comes at a topical time too - with the inquiry into the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins being suspended for a second time.
There were three chapters I particularly loved. First, the discussion on weaponising sexual gossip infuriated me in the best way possible - Ellis described the ways that the sex lives of female politicians (or rumours of their sex lives) were used as a way to put them off their game in parliament or undermine their credibility amongst their colleagues. I also really enjoyed reading the chapter titled ‘She’s Wearing What?’, which detailed the media’s obsession with how women in politics look, as opposed to how they think and perform. Finally, I was moved by the chapter on ‘The Politics of Motherhood’ which outlines how women are stuck between a rock and a hard place: if they’re without children, they are ‘deliberately barren’ (🤮 still can’t believe these words were uttered by liberal Senator Heffernan about Gillard); but if they have young children, they’re criticised for choosing to work away from their family.
As I have found with most texts on feminism (with the exception of maybe Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall and Wordslut by Amanda Montell), this book does not include the experiences of all women, with only minor references to queer women and women of colour. It would have been great to hear more about the WOC politicians that she scarcely mentioned - this is one of the reasons why I found Gillard and Okonjo-Iweala’s book on the same topic more inclusive, better formatted and better researched.
Nonetheless I felt Ellis did a great job in outlining her own lived experience as a female MP. I did also appreciated her bipartisan approach in interviewing women from various political parties (though overall, it was clear that this book was left-leaning). Overall, this is a really accessible memoir about politics, even for those with less interest or knowledge in the topic. Obviously this book shows we have lengths to go in terms of what an appropriate workplace in politics should look like - the awareness raised and discussions prompted as a result of this book are welcomed.
This was a gifted copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
January 7, 2025
kate ellis writes like she’s just transcribing her inner thoughts. and where in other circumstances i’m not a fan of that writing style, i think, in this context, it is well written and provides the book a sense of relatability that other books on australian politics couldn’t.
let’s face it, books of this nature are heavy on the jargon. it makes it hard to read for people that aren’t heavily involved in that sphere (although i suppose that’s who an author’s target is, an argument can be made that, because politics is for everyone, is should be clear and consumable for the everyday person). ellis’ writing provides a glimpse in australian political culture that *cough* men *cough* could never offer. and what a glimpse it is.
having been quite young during the gillard years, i never really understood the media onslaught she and other women in politics endured. ellis has shed light on the issues women face in parliament and the dire need to change the culture, and most notably; how australian parliament struggles to diverge from its (white) boys’ club mentality and platform women, lgbtiq+, poc, and disabled communities.
i particularly liked the chapters that touched on motherhood. women are on a tightrope when it comes to this decision - if she chooses her family, she has no work ethic. yet if she chooses her job, she’s a horrible mother. and ellis walks this line very well, considering the perspectives of women from all sides of parliament (even pauline hanson…).
overall, it’s a really great book. and i recommend it to anyone interested in australian politics and female representation in leadership roles.
let’s face it, books of this nature are heavy on the jargon. it makes it hard to read for people that aren’t heavily involved in that sphere (although i suppose that’s who an author’s target is, an argument can be made that, because politics is for everyone, is should be clear and consumable for the everyday person). ellis’ writing provides a glimpse in australian political culture that *cough* men *cough* could never offer. and what a glimpse it is.
having been quite young during the gillard years, i never really understood the media onslaught she and other women in politics endured. ellis has shed light on the issues women face in parliament and the dire need to change the culture, and most notably; how australian parliament struggles to diverge from its (white) boys’ club mentality and platform women, lgbtiq+, poc, and disabled communities.
i particularly liked the chapters that touched on motherhood. women are on a tightrope when it comes to this decision - if she chooses her family, she has no work ethic. yet if she chooses her job, she’s a horrible mother. and ellis walks this line very well, considering the perspectives of women from all sides of parliament (even pauline hanson…).
overall, it’s a really great book. and i recommend it to anyone interested in australian politics and female representation in leadership roles.
January 2, 2022
as a younger person this really backfilled a lot of more recent political history in australia whilst also telling a diverse experience of women in australian politics. as a first hand account of the kate elis’ experiences k thought it was fascinating pop culture read. but it lacked the critical analysis and focus on bigger picture. the first half of the book mainly focused on issues in the medias portrayal of women in parliament and the second half the incompatibility of political career and motherhood. this seems to completely miss the significant toxic culture of canberra especially in the accessibility of a political career for lgbt+, differently able people and people of colour as well as the sexual misconduct taking place within parliament house. maybe she didn’t feel comfortable with pulling apart the culture as that would mean admitting that to a certain extent she would have the participate and benefit of it to have such a successful career. the issue of motherhood is discussed with the assumption the mother is expected to be the primary caregiver, and is handled as if this an issue unique to a political career, rather than a systemic issue of not pricing woman’s labour accurately, expecting the domestic labour to fall upon the woman of the house without pay or consideration of the mental and physical burden. we do not price woman’s labour accurately.
September 9, 2021
Such a timely and relevant book. I stumbled across this book and thought it was a perfect way to understand and work through some of my frustrations about Australia’s current leadership. This isn’t normally the type of book I read but I loved it. It had me angry at the current state of things but hopeful about the future. It was raw, honest, uplifting and highly necessary with the current state of Australian politics. The audiobook was engaging and I found myself wanting to listen at every opportunity it could. I appreciated how this was a call to women, and others from diverse backgrounds, to reconsider a future in politics and showed views and experiences from all women in parliament, regardless of party. Highly highly recommend.
August 6, 2021
This book was eye-opening and also filled me with hope about the future of politics. Ellis highlighted the importance of a sense of optimism in fighting the sexist culture that parliament is entrenched in. I would have liked a more intersectional approach with voices of women of colour and members of the LGBT+ community emphasised a bit more. I also didn't vibe the bit that made it seem great that Pauline Hanson was inspiring young women into entering politics simply as a celebration of female representation and aspirations; women upholding harmful, white supremacist and patriarchal politics is not representative of the feminism I want to see. Overall, I learnt a lot and was glad to see the roles and work of women in parliament celebrated.
December 29, 2021
This took a while to read. The content is confronting but engaging. It’s brave and honest writing. It’s a shame that we lose good potential along the way and that our community, not just other politicians, doesn’t value the role of women in leadership.
April 21, 2021
I really wanted to like this. I really rate Kate Ellis and I think this is the best cover I've seen in years! so two stars for those points.
But I don't! At all! It promises to explain why the experiences of women in Parliament matter beyond 'a reflection of society' and 'this is where laws are made' but it doesn't. Those two points have been made over and over and over and I don't need a book about Julia and Julie bemoaning the media to know it.
I should feel bad for the women who help to keep the welfare state down, haven't moved on Indigenous deaths in custody and made university more expensive? All things which ruin or kill women?? Okay, sure.
We had more cutting analysis at women's only beers after YL caucus at 23.
But I don't! At all! It promises to explain why the experiences of women in Parliament matter beyond 'a reflection of society' and 'this is where laws are made' but it doesn't. Those two points have been made over and over and over and I don't need a book about Julia and Julie bemoaning the media to know it.
I should feel bad for the women who help to keep the welfare state down, haven't moved on Indigenous deaths in custody and made university more expensive? All things which ruin or kill women?? Okay, sure.
We had more cutting analysis at women's only beers after YL caucus at 23.
August 29, 2021
3.5*
I wanted to love this book. In fact, I expected that I would. But I just didn’t. I’m not sure whether it was the writing style which I just didn’t find gripping, or maybe that it’s a general summary that didn’t really bring a great amount of depth or anything much new to the table. Maybe it’s the fact I’ve read a few really interesting books on sexism and politics lately and Sex, Lies and Question Time just didn’t match up to them? I suspect it’s a combination of these.
I did appreciate that Ellis provides the audience with some good examples of the poor treatment of women, even though many of these have been well documented in the media. But what was good was to hear the opinions of the women involved, and hear some behind the scenes details to create a full picture. The first chapter focuses on statistics and the history of women in politics which helps to provide a broader context for everything that has been achieved, and all the work required to make the future brighter for women.
Chapters focus on the sexualisation and harassment of women (particularly through gossip and sexual rumours), slut shaming, emphasis on female appearance, social media, cross party women’s alliances and family (particularly raising children). Much of this was disturbing to read about, but of course unsurprising, especially due to the revelations in recent years on the treatment of women in parliament. Ellis details the ways in which women are personally and professionally destroyed not only by their opponents and the media, but even by those within their own party.
Importantly it is acknowledged that the situation is much harder for women of different races, sexuality and those with disabilities. Penny Wong herself states that in her experience, treatment regarding her race and sexuality are more difficult to deal with because it’s not shared unlike with gender. I’m glad this is briefly referred to even though the focus of this book is on the treatment of women specifically. Part of that is because I find it difficult to sympathise with some of the women Ellis interviews precisely because of their own treatment of other women, and the policies they produce and endorse that make the lives of many women and minorities more difficult.
However, I did very much enjoy the points of view of many of the women, and especially the bluntness of Tanya Plibersek and intelligence of Penny Wong. I also decidedly agree with some of Plibersek’s opinions on cross party women’s committees, because it is difficult to argue they must have a lot in common just because they’re women – primarily because their stances on a wide range of issues and policies markedly differ. Not to mention the ways in which women are weaponised by their own parties to do the dirty work against their female opponents.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a book about sexism in the Australian parliament without a thorough discussion on what PM Julia Gillard went through. Much of this information was known at the time, however all of the new details were a welcome addition. The perspectives of women in parliament during her prime ministership was of principal interest, including their opinions regarding what they would do differently next time.
I remember being in highschool when Gillard became PM, and as someone who paid a bit of attention to politics, you couldn’t help but notice the undercurrent of misogyny that became a major part of the national discourse for years. Not to mention how her misogyny speech really became a defining moment for so many young girls and women.
In short, Sex, Lies and Question Time is a good book to gain an overall picture of sexism in Australian politics, although in my opinion it fails to add much new to the national discussion. I enjoyed the perspectives of many current and former female politicians, although I did find it difficult to feel any sympathy towards some of the women who have a history of ruining the lives of those less fortunate.
I wanted to love this book. In fact, I expected that I would. But I just didn’t. I’m not sure whether it was the writing style which I just didn’t find gripping, or maybe that it’s a general summary that didn’t really bring a great amount of depth or anything much new to the table. Maybe it’s the fact I’ve read a few really interesting books on sexism and politics lately and Sex, Lies and Question Time just didn’t match up to them? I suspect it’s a combination of these.
I did appreciate that Ellis provides the audience with some good examples of the poor treatment of women, even though many of these have been well documented in the media. But what was good was to hear the opinions of the women involved, and hear some behind the scenes details to create a full picture. The first chapter focuses on statistics and the history of women in politics which helps to provide a broader context for everything that has been achieved, and all the work required to make the future brighter for women.
Chapters focus on the sexualisation and harassment of women (particularly through gossip and sexual rumours), slut shaming, emphasis on female appearance, social media, cross party women’s alliances and family (particularly raising children). Much of this was disturbing to read about, but of course unsurprising, especially due to the revelations in recent years on the treatment of women in parliament. Ellis details the ways in which women are personally and professionally destroyed not only by their opponents and the media, but even by those within their own party.
Importantly it is acknowledged that the situation is much harder for women of different races, sexuality and those with disabilities. Penny Wong herself states that in her experience, treatment regarding her race and sexuality are more difficult to deal with because it’s not shared unlike with gender. I’m glad this is briefly referred to even though the focus of this book is on the treatment of women specifically. Part of that is because I find it difficult to sympathise with some of the women Ellis interviews precisely because of their own treatment of other women, and the policies they produce and endorse that make the lives of many women and minorities more difficult.
However, I did very much enjoy the points of view of many of the women, and especially the bluntness of Tanya Plibersek and intelligence of Penny Wong. I also decidedly agree with some of Plibersek’s opinions on cross party women’s committees, because it is difficult to argue they must have a lot in common just because they’re women – primarily because their stances on a wide range of issues and policies markedly differ. Not to mention the ways in which women are weaponised by their own parties to do the dirty work against their female opponents.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a book about sexism in the Australian parliament without a thorough discussion on what PM Julia Gillard went through. Much of this information was known at the time, however all of the new details were a welcome addition. The perspectives of women in parliament during her prime ministership was of principal interest, including their opinions regarding what they would do differently next time.
I remember being in highschool when Gillard became PM, and as someone who paid a bit of attention to politics, you couldn’t help but notice the undercurrent of misogyny that became a major part of the national discourse for years. Not to mention how her misogyny speech really became a defining moment for so many young girls and women.
In short, Sex, Lies and Question Time is a good book to gain an overall picture of sexism in Australian politics, although in my opinion it fails to add much new to the national discussion. I enjoyed the perspectives of many current and former female politicians, although I did find it difficult to feel any sympathy towards some of the women who have a history of ruining the lives of those less fortunate.
May 2, 2022
“Many women saw the way Julia Gillard and others were crucified over their personal lives as a huge disincentive to enter politics.”
Unfortunately nothing in this book really shocked me, which is a sad commentary on the treatment of politicians that aren’t cishet men.
Another reviewer likened it to ‘Women and Leadership’ by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and I got this vibe too. The narrative approach and international nature of W&L distinguishes it from Sex, Lies and Question Time, which confines its analysis to mostly federal Australian politics.
Like W&L, it is bipartisan, receiving input from women on either side of the chamber. There are some excellent (but ingratiating) accounts on the scathing media scrutiny on a woman’s family, sexuality, relationships and appearance. This is in stark contrast to men, who never make the fashion headlines for anything other than a tan suit (if they’re normally known for wearing navy). Doubtful I will ever see a headline about who the current ministerial cabinet of mostly old white men had to shag to get to where they are today.
I also really liked the realistic and warm account of motherhood in politics. It can be a damned if you do, damned if you don’t situation - but also highlights the need to have people from all walks of life be in the room where it happens.
Without women in parliament, we wouldn’t have parental leave or national standards for childcare. Women with and without children add volumes to what the country needs - and it was a woman who implemented our only brief but successful carbon tax that actually cut emissions (till it was axed by the next government, that is).
I have a particular difficulty with relentless accounts of blantant and insidious sexism, however. It can sometimes seem like a manifesto on why you shouldn’t enter positions of leadership, lest you get treated like dogshit. At some point it feels like the doomscrolling I used to do mid-lockdown. The situation won’t change, so might as well bask in it.
So my favourite parts of these books are the calls for action, the practical next steps to fix the problem. I like the accounts of why it matters, how it is changing, and what we can do to help it change faster.
(Maybe not vote in a party made up of 27% women.)
Unfortunately nothing in this book really shocked me, which is a sad commentary on the treatment of politicians that aren’t cishet men.
Another reviewer likened it to ‘Women and Leadership’ by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and I got this vibe too. The narrative approach and international nature of W&L distinguishes it from Sex, Lies and Question Time, which confines its analysis to mostly federal Australian politics.
Like W&L, it is bipartisan, receiving input from women on either side of the chamber. There are some excellent (but ingratiating) accounts on the scathing media scrutiny on a woman’s family, sexuality, relationships and appearance. This is in stark contrast to men, who never make the fashion headlines for anything other than a tan suit (if they’re normally known for wearing navy). Doubtful I will ever see a headline about who the current ministerial cabinet of mostly old white men had to shag to get to where they are today.
I also really liked the realistic and warm account of motherhood in politics. It can be a damned if you do, damned if you don’t situation - but also highlights the need to have people from all walks of life be in the room where it happens.
Without women in parliament, we wouldn’t have parental leave or national standards for childcare. Women with and without children add volumes to what the country needs - and it was a woman who implemented our only brief but successful carbon tax that actually cut emissions (till it was axed by the next government, that is).
I have a particular difficulty with relentless accounts of blantant and insidious sexism, however. It can sometimes seem like a manifesto on why you shouldn’t enter positions of leadership, lest you get treated like dogshit. At some point it feels like the doomscrolling I used to do mid-lockdown. The situation won’t change, so might as well bask in it.
So my favourite parts of these books are the calls for action, the practical next steps to fix the problem. I like the accounts of why it matters, how it is changing, and what we can do to help it change faster.
(Maybe not vote in a party made up of 27% women.)
April 12, 2021
Kate Ellis is a former Australian Labor Federal parliamentarian and here she writes about her personal experience, in and out of politics, the general issue of women in politics and the nature of democratic representation.
This comes at a topical time, with general controversies about gender issues within parliament itself, including the lack of female representatives in the current government, and also with political staffers, with issues of harassment, assault and bias.
Ellis mixes her own story with interviews/discussions with women on all sides of politics. We find (obviously, really) that there's really not a sisterhood and that women don't necessarily support their fellow females and in fact can do the opposite; that the rules of the Australian parliament aren't conducive to supporting women and their different needs, particularly regarding parenting, where there are also some archaic perceptions about both relationships and various realities of life; that people on your side of politics can seek to undermine you and initiate/spread false rumours, and that the media is complicit in the latter.
We hear from Julia Gillard, Julie Bishop, Pauline Hanson, Sarah Hanson-Young, Karen Andrews and others.
Ellis writes plainly and communicates well and there are some teary moments for both author and reader. The narrative sometimes drifts off, but this is a very important and accessible book, which could easily be read in one sitting.
This comes at a topical time, with general controversies about gender issues within parliament itself, including the lack of female representatives in the current government, and also with political staffers, with issues of harassment, assault and bias.
Ellis mixes her own story with interviews/discussions with women on all sides of politics. We find (obviously, really) that there's really not a sisterhood and that women don't necessarily support their fellow females and in fact can do the opposite; that the rules of the Australian parliament aren't conducive to supporting women and their different needs, particularly regarding parenting, where there are also some archaic perceptions about both relationships and various realities of life; that people on your side of politics can seek to undermine you and initiate/spread false rumours, and that the media is complicit in the latter.
We hear from Julia Gillard, Julie Bishop, Pauline Hanson, Sarah Hanson-Young, Karen Andrews and others.
Ellis writes plainly and communicates well and there are some teary moments for both author and reader. The narrative sometimes drifts off, but this is a very important and accessible book, which could easily be read in one sitting.
May 16, 2021
Unfortunately nothing in this book is surprising, but it is a good overview of the day to day issues that women in politics, but also women in general professions face. I was really interested in the first half about stereotypes, rumours, media, expectations that aren't placed on men and the appalling treatment of Julia Gillard. But I found the second half was primarily about children and managing worklife and motherhood. I understand that this is a huge issue for parliament and is a big reason we don't have enough women in politics, however I just couldn't personally relate to a lot of it. Ellis discusses the difficulties in choosing to have a family due to outdayed and entrenched gender norms. Women not having kids to maintain their career, however, it doesn't really address women who just might not want kids. Not because of their career, not because they can't, but because it is just not something they want. The focus on motherhood, although hugely important, just might not relate to everyone and makes the second half of the book a little drawn out. I also think that given the current climate, sexual harrasment could have been explored a little further. It also did nothing to convince me to want to go into politics.
July 1, 2021
this book didn't really bring anything new to the table, but rather provides a summary of what we already know: Australian parliament is a sexist and outdated system. I enjoyed reading the thoughts of other well-known female parliamentarians and I also appreciated learning more about Kate Ellis' story.
She kind of lost me when she spoke about her decision to leave parliament. In one breath, she was just outlining the difficulties working mothers have in being a politician within an archaic system but in the other breath stated that her decision to leave parliament so that she could spend more time with her children was based purely on her values and did not speak to wider issues. I wanted her to dig deeper rather than completely separating her own personal experience from the issues that she is exploring in this book.
I don't think that Ellis is a compelling writer although I did enjoy the concept of the book and I think that it is a worthwhile read if you are new to Aussie politics.
She kind of lost me when she spoke about her decision to leave parliament. In one breath, she was just outlining the difficulties working mothers have in being a politician within an archaic system but in the other breath stated that her decision to leave parliament so that she could spend more time with her children was based purely on her values and did not speak to wider issues. I wanted her to dig deeper rather than completely separating her own personal experience from the issues that she is exploring in this book.
I don't think that Ellis is a compelling writer although I did enjoy the concept of the book and I think that it is a worthwhile read if you are new to Aussie politics.
April 2, 2021
A wonderful and timely book by former federal MP Kate Ellis about the shit female politicians are forced to put up with. Interviews across the political spectrum reveal a disgraceful commonality of experience. And yet Ellis remains optimistic. This book already feels dated with the even more disgraceful antics of our current federal government. And yet it’s also all the more relevant as it highlights the rewarding and unique aspects of the job.
I hope more young women enter politics and a new generation of smart, compassionate, and duty oriented people, across the full spectrum of human experience sweep away the relics that now dwell in australian politics.
I hope more young women enter politics and a new generation of smart, compassionate, and duty oriented people, across the full spectrum of human experience sweep away the relics that now dwell in australian politics.
December 24, 2021
A timely read, kind of makes you want to get into politics kind of doesn't.
I think it's hard for women to always be banding together in the name of equality when there are women who undercut others, but that is also the culture we seem to have grown up in. An ongoing battle between 24/7 supportive bff's to talking behind each other's back. But the bigger evil party at play here is definitely the media, feeding the toxic environment in politics and many other industries. We've got a long way to go and progress is slow, but it's better than no progress at all.
A reminder that we are not defined by other people's hatred.
I think it's hard for women to always be banding together in the name of equality when there are women who undercut others, but that is also the culture we seem to have grown up in. An ongoing battle between 24/7 supportive bff's to talking behind each other's back. But the bigger evil party at play here is definitely the media, feeding the toxic environment in politics and many other industries. We've got a long way to go and progress is slow, but it's better than no progress at all.
A reminder that we are not defined by other people's hatred.
January 19, 2023
The book covers important issues. While focussing on the importance of more equal representation of women, and removal of sexist attitudes and behaviours, she frequently comments on the value of broader diversity and the impact of intersectionality in increasing the pressures on people, esp women. The book would have benefited from a larger number of interviewees, incl more men, as it is dominated by quotes from a small number of women. I would have liked her to have interviewed more women (and men) from the Liberal/National party, minor parties and independents, and from state Parliaments as well as the federal Parliament, because the issues and perspectives are likely to be different.
August 31, 2021
I wanted to be inspired by this book but there is no fire at all here- only jumped from one to two stars when she talked about her reasons for quitting politics for motherhood. Like her political career, this book is also not memorable. She really continues to push her labor party views even many years after leaving politics and who cares?! Wish she used her political platform to address some of these issues more back then, and not when trying to sell a book..
November 11, 2022
Searingly honest account of the sexist crap our female politicians are still putting up with. What I really liked about this book was how former Labor MP Kate Ellis spoke with women across the political spectrum. Female MP's spoke about the sexism they faced each day; their struggles to combine motherhood and politics; and even those who may not have had children at all due to their chosen profession. Kate encouraged women to still put their hand up to run for office, but honestly, this book put me off ever becoming a politician. We still have a long way to go in Australia.
August 19, 2023
So grateful that former MP Kate Ellis shared her harrowing experience whilst in politics. Unfortunately I am not surprised on the incredibly juvenile and inappropriate behaviour that occurs with those in charge of our nation, and Kate hits the nail on the head about why so many women don't feel comfortable entering, or remaining in politics.
It has a great lens looking at the importance of women in parliament and the importance of decision makers and leaders being women, allowing for ongoing equal representation and different perspectives to influence our future. I really enjoyed picking this one up.
It has a great lens looking at the importance of women in parliament and the importance of decision makers and leaders being women, allowing for ongoing equal representation and different perspectives to influence our future. I really enjoyed picking this one up.
December 20, 2023
Excellent read! I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the life of Kate Ellis and her experience as a female federal minister. There are some incredible unique and profound points made in this book and a huge array of interviews across the political spectrum. I highly recommend people read this book!
May 16, 2021
I really wanted to love this book. I have many books on my list but when I heard of this, it went straight to the top. But it just fell so flat? The book felt like it lacked purpose other than recounting stories and experiences. I was left uninspired.
June 1, 2021
A really interesting exploration of just how toxic the Australian Parliament is. Here’s hoping we see change, and that we see it soon!
August 26, 2021
Technically 4.5 stars.
I really enjoyed the audiobook. As someone with minimal knowledge of Australian politics, it was easy to digest.
I disagree with the reviews saying this book discourages women from joining politics. If anything, it prepares women or any group that would currently be a minority in parliament for the current inequity.
I really enjoyed the audiobook. As someone with minimal knowledge of Australian politics, it was easy to digest.
I disagree with the reviews saying this book discourages women from joining politics. If anything, it prepares women or any group that would currently be a minority in parliament for the current inequity.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews