Blair Williams

Dr. Blair Williams is a Lecturer in Australian Politics at Monash University, following her role as a Research Fellow at the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership (GIWL) at the Australian National University (ANU). She holds a PhD in Politics and International Relations from ANU (2020) and a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Gender Studies and Politics (2014). Her research focuses on gendered media coverage of women in politics, including analyses of pandemic leadership responses, Murdoch press double standards, and political masculinity.

• Education:
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, ANU (2020)
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours, Gender Studies and Politics, ANU (2014)
• External Roles:
  • Visiting Fellow, ANU (2022–present)

Her work explores intersections of gender, media, and political leadership, with recent projects examining Murdoch press bias, queer politicians’ online harassment, and Australian political masculinity. She has contributed to The Canberra Times, The Conversation, and international media outlets like the BBC and Al Jazeera. Her research aligns with UN SDGs related to gender equality and education.

Awards:

• ANU Gender Institute PhD Thesis Prize (2020)
• ANU Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Impact and Engagement (2021)
• Thelma Hunter Women and Politics PhD Thesis Prize (2022)

Dr. Williams has engaged in public lectures and media activism, emphasizing gender equity and political representation. Her research on pandemic governance, media framing, and leadership masculinity has been widely cited and discussed in academic and public spheres.