What is cathy mcgowan?

Cathy McGowan is an Australian independent politician who served as the Member of Parliament for the Division of Indi in Victoria from 2013 to 2019. Her victory in the 2013 election was notable as she defeated the incumbent Liberal MP, Sophie Mirabella, marking a significant shift in Australian politics towards increased independent representation.

McGowan is known for her advocacy for rural and regional Australia, focusing on issues such as sustainable agriculture, telecommunications infrastructure, and community development. She emphasized a community-based approach to politics, engaging closely with her constituents and promoting participatory democracy. Her work often highlighted the importance of strong regional economies and social services.

Prior to entering parliament, McGowan had a background in agricultural consulting and community work. She also developed her parliamentary strategies after a long time working at the local level. Since leaving parliament, she has continued to be involved in initiatives supporting regional communities and promoting women's leadership.