Ditch the Witch 2.0 and the personal toll of sexist abuse in politics
Jun 11, 2026 •
When Julia Gillard delivered her now-famous misogyny speech in 2012, it was against a backdrop of some horrendous sexist attacks.
One of the most prominent was “Ditch the Witch” – a slogan on a placard then-opposition leader Tony Abbott was photographed standing in front of at an anti-carbon tax rally.
Now, the ugly slogan is back. This time, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan is the target.
“Ditch the Witch 2.0” has put a spotlight on the treatment of women in politics.
Today, Victorian MP Georgie Purcell on her own experience of sexist abuse, the threat it poses to democracy, and why she’s putting political differences aside to stand up for her rival.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Ditch the Witch 2.0 and the personal toll of sexist abuse in politics
1944 • Jun 11, 2026
Ditch the Witch 2.0 and the personal toll of sexist abuse in politics
When Julia Gillard delivered her now-famous misogyny speech in 2012, it was against a backdrop of some horrendous sexist attacks.
One of the most prominent was “Ditch the Witch” – a slogan on a placard then-opposition leader Tony Abbott was photographed standing in front of at an anti-carbon tax rally.
Now, the ugly slogan is back. This time, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan is the target.
“Ditch the Witch 2.0” has put a spotlight on the treatment of women in politics.
Today, Victorian MP Georgie Purcell on her own experience of sexist abuse, the threat it poses to democracy, and why she’s putting political differences aside to stand up for her rival.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Arielle Richards, Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Ruby Jones, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
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