Students in Year 9 in South Australia are gearing up to debate whether the “tradwife” movement is beneficial for women, sparking heated discussions even before the debates commence. The topic will be part of the forthcoming round of Debating SA’s competition, open to all schools in the state.
The announcement sparked controversy on social media, with concerns raised about the appropriateness of the topic. Critics argued that female students advocating for the affirmative could inadvertently support their own subordination. On social media, the term “tradwife” is associated with a stereotypically traditional, homemaking lifestyle. However, it has also been linked to misogynistic sentiments and anti-feminist movements, including the “manosphere.”
Debating SA has responded to the backlash by clarifying its perspective on “tradwife” as a term synonymous with a stay-at-home parent, without any implications of submission to a male partner. The organization has also received abusive calls from individuals expressing concern that the topic undermines women’s rights.
The political education of South Australia’s Minister for Education, Blair Boyer, was questioned, as he was unfamiliar with the term “tradwife.” He acknowledged the debate’s controversial nature but supports its potential for sparking interest in relevant issues. Researchers like Kristy Campion connect “tradwife” culture with broader far-right ideologies and opposition to gender equality. It is also seen, by some, as a idealized critique of modern living from a conservative perspective.
There is concern about the diminishing tolerance for debating in Australia according to public policy researcher Fiona Mueller from the Centre for Independent Studies. She values debating for its contribution to critical thinking and democratic engagement and urges confidence and support in teaching and participating in these forums.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jun/11/fury-over-year-9-students-in-south-australia-being-asked-to-debate-whether-the-tradwife-movement-is-good-for-women
