From Student Council to Penrith City Council

Western Sydney University Student and Councillor Libby Austin has seen many changes this year, among the biggest, at 19 years old becoming the youngest member of Penrith City Council during the local council elections this past September.

A member of the University’s Student Representative Council (SRC) Libby has aways had a strong appreciation for social justice and her involvement with Young Labor has provided a safe space to explore her love of politics.

The Penrith local is learning how to navigate all her commitments as she works towards a double degree, Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Communications, which she really enjoys.

“While there have certainly been ups and downs, learning how to balance out all my commitments is definitely taking some time to work through, and having the support of my family is certainly a great help,” she said.

Libby admits that politics wasn’t always something that she was interested in, though she does consider herself an activist, and was involved in debating and public speaking, along with the social justice team during her school years.

“Being involved in the social justice team inevitably lead to a love of social causes and activism, that led to me growing an interest in politics and community service,” said Libby.

While a year ago Libby couldn’t imagine that this would be her life, two months into her term on Penrith City Council she is enjoying herself.

“I can say I am loving every single minute of it.  You get to ingrain yourself into the community, meet people and help them, the 12-year-old social justice team member in me from high school is so proud,” said Libby.

Finding the experience so rewarding, Libby is keen to put her hand up for a second term on the Council.

“If I got the opportunity of course I would run again, I would never turn away the opportunity to represent my community,” Libby said.

ENDS

15 November 2024

Kathryn Bannon, Media Officer.