Amelia Best, Australian politician, one of the first women elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly (d. 1979) [2]
Amelia Martha Best, affectionately known as Millie, MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), lived a remarkable life from April 29, 1900, to November 14, 1979. She holds a significant place in Tasmanian history as one of the very first two women ever elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly. This pivotal achievement in 1955 marked a new era for political representation in the state, breaking barriers for women in what had long been an exclusively male domain.

Early Life and Community Engagement

Born in the serene surrounds of Lower Barrington, Tasmania, Australia, Millie Best’s early life laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication and service. Before her groundbreaking entry into state politics, she was a vibrant member of her community in Launceston, where she successfully operated an arts and crafts business. This entrepreneurial spirit was complemented by a deep commitment to public service, particularly evident during World War II. During this critical period, she actively contributed to the war effort through her involvement with the Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) Canteen Services. Her work with the VAD provided essential support and comfort to service personnel, reflecting a compassionate and organized character that would later serve her well in the political arena.

A Pioneering Political Career

Millie Best’s political journey began in earnest when she successfully contested the 1955 state election. Representing the Liberal Party, a major centre-right political force in Australia, she secured a seat in the Tasmanian House of Assembly for the electoral division of Wilmot. This victory was particularly significant as she, along with Mabel Miller, became the first women ever elected to Tasmania's lower house, an historic moment for the state's democratic evolution. However, the path of a pioneering politician was not without its challenges. She lost her seat the following year in 1956, a common occurrence in the dynamic landscape of parliamentary politics. Demonstrating her resilience and unwavering commitment to public service, Millie Best successfully re-entered the House of Assembly in 1958. Despite this brief return, her parliamentary tenure concluded in 1959 when she again lost her seat. Even with these electoral fluctuations, her role as one of the inaugural female parliamentarians firmly cemented her legacy in Australian political history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amelia Martha (Millie) Best

Who was Amelia Martha (Millie) Best?

Amelia Martha Best, known affectionately as Millie, was a pioneering Australian politician. Born in 1900, she became one of the first two women ever elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly in 1955, making a significant impact on gender representation in state politics.

What was her most significant political achievement?

Her most notable achievement was being one of the first two women to be elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly in 1955, alongside Mabel Miller. This was a landmark moment for women's political participation in Tasmania.

Where was Millie Best born?

She was born in Lower Barrington, Tasmania, Australia.

What was her involvement during World War II?

During World War II, Millie Best was actively involved in the Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) Canteen Services. This role saw her providing crucial support and comfort to service personnel.

Which political party did she represent?

Millie Best represented the Liberal Party in the Tasmanian House of Assembly.

How long did she serve in the Tasmanian House of Assembly?

She was initially elected in 1955 but lost her seat in 1956. She was then re-elected in 1958 and served until losing her seat again in 1959. Her service, though not continuous, spanned important years of political change.

What does "MBE" signify in her name?

MBE stands for Member of the Order of the British Empire. This honour is awarded for a significant achievement or service to the community.

Who was the other woman elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly at the same time as Millie Best?

The other trailblazing woman elected alongside Millie Best in 1955 was Mabel Miller, making history as the first two female members of the Tasmanian House of Assembly.