Current Discussions on Elections in Aotearoa New Zealand

Right now, elections and voting are a prominent topic of discussion in Aotearoa New Zealand. The triennial local government elections are underway, and there is ongoing debate about voter participation. Notably, during the 2023 local government elections, only 40.88% of eligible voters cast their ballots. In comparison, the 2023 General Election saw a turnout of 77.1%.

Unlike Australia—where voting is compulsory, as it is in 13% of the world’s democracies—Aotearoa New Zealand does not require eligible citizens to vote. This distinction raises important questions about civic engagement and the relevance of voting in our society.

Relevance to Soroptimist International

This discussion is especially pertinent at the SISEAP Federation level, where nominations for the 2026–2028 SISEAP positions have recently opened. Similarly, Soroptimist International ANZ has invited members to step up to national governance positions. These calls for participation highlight the opportunities available for members to engage in leadership and governance within the organisation.

The Privilege of Participation

It is important to recognise how fortunate we are that most women in our Federation—and at many levels—are free to vote and pursue leadership roles. Many women around the world still face significant barriers to these privileges. For example, I recently learned that women, particularly from the Global South, were prevented from attending the 2025 UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York. The main reasons cited were restrictive US visa policies, insufficient funding, limited travel resources, and other structural barriers.

This situation highlights the ongoing unfairness that persists globally. Despite the progress women have made, there are still many countries where it remains difficult for women to vote or participate in governance.

Historical Perspectives on Suffrage

Reflecting on our own history, I realised I knew little about the suffrage journey within our own SISEAP Federation. Research revealed that progress towards women’s right to vote has varied greatly across regions. On 19th September 2025, women in Aotearoa New Zealand celebrated the 132nd anniversary of women’s suffrage. Kate Sheppard, a leading New Zealand suffragist, was instrumental in organising the 1893 Women’s Suffrage Petition, which led New Zealand to become the first country in the world to establish universal suffrage.

When travelling in the United States, I was reminded by a local that Wyoming, in 1869, was the first territory to grant women the right to vote and hold office, making it a pioneer in women’s suffrage in the US. According to Wikipedia, Mongolian women were able to vote and be elected as President by 1924. In Australia, women gained the right to vote at the federal level in 1902, with this right extended to all women in 1962. Malaysian women received the right to vote in 1957, coinciding with the country’s independence, marking a major milestone towards gender equality. In Fiji, the general elections held in April–May 1963 allowed women and indigenous Fijians to vote for the first time alongside other populations.

A Call to Action

With this history in mind, I encourage members to consider stepping up to local and Federation Soroptimist positions. By doing so, you not only have the opportunity to influence the future of our organisation but also to develop your own leadership skills and experiences.

At Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific, we find ourselves at a crossroads: we must choose to modernise and grow, or we risk further decline in membership.

Reflections on the Past and Present

As we reflect on these issues, one might wonder what our ancestors would think of the current decline in voter participation and the persistent barriers to equality faced by so many women today.

Kristeen Johnston

2024-2026 SISEAP Membership Convenor

membership.kristeen@siseap.org

Soroptimist International of South Perth is proud to share the growth and achievements of our club, which has steadily expanded since its chartering in 1998. Over the past five years alone, membership has increased by more than 50%, earning recognition with a Recruitment and Retention Award.

Through a clear strategy, welcoming culture, and strong community presence, our club continues to thrive. Together, we remain committed to empowering women and girls locally and globally through education, advocacy, and opportunity. Currently we have 53 members with a median age of 56 - each bringing unique skills, perspectives, and dedication to the Soroptimist mission.

Strategic Growth and Planning

Recognising the importance of recruitment and retention to our Federation status, the club

developed a seven-point plan to raise our profile and strengthen engagement. This plan involved:

- Assessing current membership and identifying challenges.

- Surveying members and learning from past successes and shortcomings.

- Defining available resources - time, funds, and volunteer skills.

- Exploring strategies used by other organisations and adapting them to our needs.

- Establishing priorities, creating an action plan, and assigning team roles.

- Monitoring progress with flexibility and transparency.

- Celebrating successes along the way.

Recruitment Strategies That Work

Personal connection remains our strongest recruitment tool. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal invitations consistently bring new members to our club. To extend our reach, we have developed a 'Friends of Soroptimist' email group, allowing women unable to attend regular meetings to stay connected and engaged.

Our Membership Committee, alongside a dedicated Publicity Officer, has expanded our presence through social media, local media coverage, and community collaborations.

Participation in other service club events has broadened networks and created opportunities for partnership.

Annual events such as the International Women’s Day Breakfast and the Jean Hailes Women’s Health Breakfast each attract over 100 women, many of whom later join as members. Thoughtful touches - such as branded gifts, informational leaflets, and Soroptimist business cards - ensure our identity remains visible and welcoming to newcomers.

Focusing on Retention

As one of the largest clubs in the Federation, retaining members is a priority. A varied program of service activities ensures that all members can contribute according to their skills and interests. Monthly meetings are designed to be welcoming and inclusive, with quality venues and opportunities for connection.

New members are paired with mentors, supported with induction sessions, and encouraged to join committees where friendships and networks naturally flourish.

Leadership training, service opportunities, and recognition initiatives - including service badges, awards, and the President’s Award for Outstanding Soroptimism - further strengthen engagement.

Equally important is the culture of care and support. Members look out for one another, offering practical help, encouragement, and recognition of personal milestones. Fundraising events, coffee mornings, and family-inclusive activities deepen bonds and sustain long-term involvement.

Looking Ahead

Our journey demonstrates that growth is not only possible but sustainable when driven by strategy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to service. By celebrating successes, learning from challenges, and nurturing strong connections, Soroptimist International of South Perth continues to thrive.

Together, we remain dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls - locally and globally - through education, empowerment, and opportunities.

Leanne Meldrum

Membership Coordinator

Soroptimist International of South Perth

sisouthperth@siseap.org