IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK: Gladys Berejiklian’s squeaky-clean image has taken a bruising.

Whilst Gladys Berejiklian has found herself in hot water this week, we’ve found her splashed across the front pages of media outlets from TV to radio, online and newspapers.

After an appearance as a witness at the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), it was revealed the New South Wales Premier had a secret on-again off-again relationship with former Wagga Wagga MP, Daryl Maguire. Maguire is accused of trying to broker property deals, and connecting developers with large investors – including those in China. Although Berejiklian has not been accused of any wrong-doing and appeared solely as a witness, eyebrows have raised on the decisions she has made in her personal life – with some suggesting that she step down as Premier. Berejiklian has admitted to “stuffing up” yet insists she has done nothing wrong.

Gladys Berejiklian has always been a reputable Premier with her squeaky-clean public image. As New South Wales continue to grapple with the effects of COVID-19, we have one woman to thank when we dabble in our freedom this weekend, and that is her. In a fight against COVID-19 that in my eyes is comparable to Jacinda Ardern, Gladys Berejiklian is a woman of integrity who has always put the interests of the public first. Not to mention, female role models of this profile are hard to find.

In addition, Berejiklian has always been a private woman having mentioned her closest family and friends were unaware of the relationship. To have her personal life brought into the public eye has to be one of the most testing times of Berejiklian’s professional and personal life.

Ms Berejiklian has impressed us for her leadership ability and public image. Sure it has taken a hit this week, however the equity and relationships she has built has earned her a continued winning public relations persona.

By Sarah Meenan – PR and Influencer Executive at InsideOut PR and #AsSeenON