A Yorta Yorta woman will make history on Tuesday when she is sworn in as the Victorian Labor Party's first female Aboriginal MP in the state parliament.
Ms Watt will fill the vacancy left after the resignation of former health minister Jenny Mikakos.
Ms Watt will become the MP for the northern metropolitan region upon being sworn in on Tuesday afternoon.
On Monday, Ms Watt told media that it is more important than ever that Indigenous people are represented in parliament as Victoria emerges from the coronavirus pandemic crisis.
"We need all sorts of people in the parliament to make it work. I think I bring something really unique and different perspective to the team. I know it will be valued as we navigate the days ahead," she said.
Ms Watt has an extensive background in the health and community sectors and was employed as the Executive Manager for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy & Programs at not-for-profit, AFL SportsReady.
She has previously said she is motivated by the stories from community heard throughout the course of her career and is driven to ensure these voices are amplified.
"I've heard stories of resilience, hope, and strength that encouraged me and I'm hoping that I can continue to be inspired by them as I navigate my path in the parliament and in the future as we make our way out of this health pandemic,” said Ms Watt.
Her most recent role at AFL SportsReady focused on creating employment opportunities for Indigenous youth and followed her previous work with the Stroke Foundation and the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, as well as her service on the boards of the Victorian Council of Social Services, VicHealth and Women's Health Victoria.
Premier Daniel Andrews told reporters on Monday that it is a “very, very special day” and that he looks forward to seeing Ms Watt sworn in.
