THE building that houses the Communities and Health departments in East Perth has been renamed in honour of May Holman.
Ms Holman was the first woman from the Labor Party to be elected to an Australian Parliament in 1925 when she won the State seat of Forrest.
She was known for her dedication and passion for improving peoples lives, especially in the timber industry, where she introduced the Timber Industries Act in 1926.
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READ NOWShe won the State seat of Forrest, centred on Dwellingup, five times and served 14 years in State Parliament.
Ms Holman passed away in 1939 after a car crash.
Premier Mark McGowan said he was pleased to be able to recognise such a prominent figure in WA’s history.
“She was a trailblazer for women across this nation and deserves better recognition here in her home state,” said Mr McGowan.
“Many years ago, the Government had a building that bore her name. Unfortunately, this was sold, and the name changed.
“This year, my Labor Government is righting that wrong and giving Ms Holman the recognition her life deserves.”
Women’s Interests Minister Simone McGurk was also very proud to be a part of the renaming.
“Her historic election to State Parliament in 1925 blazed a new trail in Australian politics that enabled other women, including myself, to follow in her footsteps,” she said.
“To date, Western Australia has not done enough to publicly acknowledge significant women in its history.
“The May Holman Building will ensure that Ms Holman’s commitment to civil service and significant contributions to WA are not forgotten.”
The May Holman Building plaque was unveiled on September 12 and is located at 189 Royal Street, East Perth.