Windback Wednesday - Honourable Jennifer Cashmore AM

The Honourable Jennifer Cashmore AM (1937–2024) became the third woman to be elected to the House of Assembly in 1977, serving as the Member for Coles (today known as Morialta). Cashmore was a resident of the City of Burnside for much of her adult life.

Cashmore served with distinction in Parliament for 16 years, including 12 years as the only woman representing the Liberal Party. Her political career was characterised by unwavering dedication to the causes she believed in. A strong advocate for the provision of quality palliative care, she also led a passionate opposition to proposed development at Wilpena Pound, going so far as to pledge to stand in front of bulldozers to prevent any destruction.

Upon her retirement from Parliament, Cashmore continued to serve the public through her involvement in numerous boards and committees. In recognition of her outstanding service, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1998, acknowledged for her contributions to the South Australian Parliament and her advocacy in the fields of palliative care, women’s issues, and economic development.

Photograph: Jennifer Cashmore September 1979. Courtesy of SLSA B37324.