Last updated: 25 june, 2010 - 09:50 GMT
Has new PM Julia Gillard shattered Australia's 'glass ceiling'?
The new prime minister has promised to hold an election within months
Julia Gillard has become Australia's first female prime minister after her predecessor, Kevin Rudd, stood down following a dramatic fall in both party and public support for his leadership.
Mr Rudd had started the year as the most popular Australia leader in thirty years, but his approval ratings collapsed after a series of unpopular decisions.
Jacqueline Kent is her biographer.
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In the 21st century, is it particularly noteworthy that Australia has a female prime minister?
Australian-born author, playwright, and journalist Kathy Lette tells Fergus Nicoll how she feels about events back in her homeland.
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First broadcast 24 June 2010
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