Julia Gillard becomes Australia’s first female Prime Minister

CANBERRA J - Julia Gillard became Australia’s first female Prime Minister after Kevin Rudd stepped down in tears as the ruling Labour Party’s leader at the ballot meeting.

Governor-General Quentin Bryce will swear her in as the Prime Minister at 12.30pm (AEST).

Ms. Gillard was unanimously elected to the post.

Kevin Rudd became emotional as he listed his achievements in office during a press conference.

“I did my best to give Australia a fair go,” News.com.au quoted Rudd, as saying.

His voice wavered during his speech at the conference saying he was proud to have contributed in abolishing Work Choices and his record on health, education and at shielding Australia from the worst of the global financial crisis.

Senior factional leaders claimed Ms Gillard had had a victory with at least 70 votes from a Caucus of 112.

Many leaders across the globe congratulated Gillard on her victory.

“I know her well, she’s a person of extraordinary ability, of great intellect, of great compassion, she’s got a wonderful way with people.” News.com.au quoted Victorian Premier John Brumby, as saying.

Rudd’s defeat happens to be one of the most stunning political turnarounds, especially for a leader who just a few months ago was rivaling Bob Hawke in the popularity stakes.

The historic vote of confidence for Ms Gillard has made her Australia’s 27th Prime Minister.

Michael George Forshaw praised Rudd for his contribution to the Labour Party and Australia as whole.

“He led us to victory in 2007, a victory that was achieved when many people thought that we would still be spending more years in Opposition”, News.com.au quoted Forshaw as saying. (ANI)