Renowned Indian-origin biotechnologist and award-winning scientist Dr Parwinder Kaur has made history by becoming the first Sikh woman elected to any Australian Parliament, and the first to be sworn in with a Sikh scripture, Gutka Sahib, in hand.
“This is a day I will carry with me forever,” Dr Kaur said.
“It’s an incredible honour and a deeply humbling milestone. As a migrant, a mother, and a woman in STEM, I carry with me the stories of countless others who deserve to see themselves reflected in leadership.”
Now a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) in Western Australia, Dr Kaur’s swearing-in was rich with cultural significance.
Standing barefoot and with her head covered in a traditional scarf as a sign of reverence, she took her oath in a ceremony that broke new ground in Australian political history.
Her induction comes during the Cook Labor Government’s historic third consecutive term and marks a significant step forward for representation, inclusion, and diversity in leadership. Despite being placed 13th on the Labor ticket for the Upper House, Dr Kaur successfully secured a seat, underlining both the party’s strength and her growing prominence.
Born and educated in India, Dr Kaur arrived in Australia as a PhD scholar. She went on to establish herself as a leading force in biotechnology, with over 15 years of experience in genomic research — particularly in the conservation of threatened species. She has led an innovative DNA Lab and currently co-leads DNA Zoo Australia, a groundbreaking initiative using genomics to empower biodiversity conservation.
Looking ahead, Dr Kaur says she is committed to shaping a future for Western Australia that is inclusive, evidence-driven, and underpinned by the belief that technology should uplift every community.
“I’m honoured. I’m ready. And I’m committed to serving this great state that has given me so much. I’m here because of you — and now, I’m here for you. Let’s get to work.”
Dr Kaur’s election and symbolic swearing-in have been hailed as a milestone moment for multicultural Australia, and for every young person who sees their identity reflected in her story.
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