Gifted to the City of Perth by architect and former City of Perth Councillor Sandy Anghie and her husband Michael Anghie through the City’s Commemorative Works program, the statue commemorates Edith Cowan’s legacy as the first woman elected to an Australian parliament.

A champion for women’s rights, Edith Cowan introduced a landmark Private Member’s Bill during her term in the Western Australian Parliament which secured the right for women to enter the professions.

City of Perth Deputy Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the statue was a fitting tribute to a woman who helped shape the course of our nation.

“Thank you to the Anghie family for this exceptional gift to the City’s Public Art Collection,” Cr Reynolds said.

“The Edith Cowan statue now sits at the heart of our City, and I hope it inspires people of all ages to learn more about her remarkable life and the legacy she left behind.”

The plaque for the statue features a QR code, linking visitors to information about Edith Cowan’s life and contributions.

The artwork was created by renowned Western Australian sculptors Joan Walsh-Smith OAM and Charles Smith OAM.