When female political leaders show ambition, they are often portrayed in the media as grasping, selfish and power-seeking. In other words, they are the embodiment of Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth.

Female politicians with ambition are perceived as less likeable and take a hit in popularity and electoral success. This phenomena has been termed the double bind , which is a paradox experienced ...

Australia’s new wave of female political leaders should be judged on ability and performance, not outdated and harmful stereotypes.