INTERVIEW WITH MARGARET ABBOTT

An ordinary person in extraordinary circumstances

«As a family, our times together are limited but when we do see each other it is the simple pleasures that we enjoy» MARGARET ABBOTT

Margie Abbott has stood beside her Prime Minister husband Tony Abbott through thick and thin. We had the opportunity to catch up with charasmatic Mrs Abbott who opened up and gave us some insight into her daily and family life and valued contribution to the community.

They say behind every successful man there is a woman. Did you always believe that your husband would become prime minister?

Can I say that in response to the first part of the question I always see myself by Tony’s side not behind him! With regard to my belief that Tony would become Prime Minister? I have always believed that hard work and commitment will be rewarded. Whether that would lead to Tony becoming prime minister was never guaranteed. He always endeavoured to do the best that he could – that it has led to this incredible opportunity is a great honour.

How much has your family life now changed?

As a family we are fortunate that our children are older and forging their own lives at this time. I think to raise a young family in this role would be challenging for all.

The world welcomed the election of the first Jesuit pope, Pope Francis, then your husband was elected Prime Minister of Australia. We know that your husband was educated at St Ignatius College, Riverview, and is a Jesuit disciple. As a traditional Catholic has your husband been influenced by the missionary values of Pope Francis?

I think Tony would be the best person to answer this question. However, the school motto of St Ignatius is, in broad terms, “to be a man for others”. I do know that this is something that Tony strives for in all facets of his life.

How long have you been married?

We have been married for a little over 25 years.

And how did you meet?

We were introduced by mutual friends who we are still very close to today.

Walk us through a day in the life of Australia’s first lady?

I do not feel comfortable with the title of first lady. I see myself and my family as ordinary Australians that find themselves in this extraordinary situation. My day is varied – I always try to exercise whether it is walking the family dog, Maisie, or bike riding – this is an important part of my start to the day. I am still working in childcare; although my hours are reduced I do not wish to lose touch with my career in early childhood of which I am passionate about.  If I am not working I could be attending functions to represent my husband or in my capacities either as patron or a supporter of many good causes.

It’s great to see you open up and address the public, particularly about your family values and where your husband stands. What issues do you feel most need to be addressed in order to make a change?

As a mother I have always tried to instil in my daughters the need for personal responsibility particularly when they make mistakes. How it is important not to look to blame others but to look to themselves to solve the issues that might be concerning them. In fact, I have always said to my daughters to not be frightened to make mistakes because this provides you with an opportunity to reflect and make changes. I think this is something we should all strive for in our personal and business lives.

The media is not always kind to your husband. Do you read and keep up with media today?

After 20 years of being married to a politician I learnt very quickly that for the way for me to “survive” this life was to not be a “media junkie”. 

Has Tony’s position as Prime Minister changed his role as husband and father?

As Prime Minister the girls and I accept and understand that Tony is committed to doing his absolute best – which requires a total commitment to the role. As a family, our times together are limited but when we do see each other it is the simple pleasures that we enjoy – a family meal, getting together with friends or watching our favourite television programs. Nothing glamorous but always real!