On many issues, these politicians stand opposed — but as mothers, they stand united

There are many issues that set these three politicians apart. But a Victorian parliament baby boom has united them behind a worthy cause.

New parliament mums Nationals MP Annabelle Cleeland with 5-month old Sigrid, Liberal MP Jess Wilson with 5-month old Patrick and Labor MP Martha Haylett with 5-month old Liam are making the most of a new child care initiative at parliament. Picture: David Caird

A Victorian parliament baby boom has prompted a rare uniting of the three major parties.

Nationals MP Annabelle Cleeland, Labor MP Martha Haylett, and Liberal MP Jess Wilson have come together to establish a new on-site childcare facility at Spring St.

The new mums, who gave birth to their babies – Sigrid, Liam and Patrick – just two weeks apart late last year, have personally hired early childhood educators for sitting days, allowing them to return to parliament sooner.

“With parliament's long hours, having our babies here allows us to feed, nurture, and work without compromise,” Ms Cleeland said, who represents the regional seat of Euroa.

Ms Haylett said it was a “game changer for women politicians” and “especially us country MPs”.

“It means we can come back to work sooner and not be hundreds of miles away from our babies,” the Ripon MP said.

The new mums, who gave birth to their babies – Sigrid, Liam and Patrick – just two weeks apart late last year, have personally hired early childhood educators for sitting days, allowing them to return to parliament sooner. Picture: David Caird

Kew MP, Ms Wilson, said they had been “entrusted to represent our communities, and this arrangement allows us to care for our babies as they grow, while also being effective local members”.

The three MPs credited Maree Edwards, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, for backing the initiative.

Ms Edwards has transformed a room in the parliament for babies and children, fitted with cots, a play area, feeding space and a working area for parents.

“The Victorian parliament turns 170 years old next year. It’s taken to this point for us to better support women politicians, parents and carers,” Ms Edwards said.

“This is about bringing parliament into the 21st century and making sure it’s an inclusive workplace.

Ms Edwards also joked that having babies present during sitting weeks has “changed the tone” in parliament.

“There’s a lot less yelling,” she added with a laugh.

Originally published as On many issues, these politicians stand opposed — but as mothers, they stand united