Gladys Berejiklian: The Recognition of a Modern Day Vespasian

In ancient Rome, Emperor Vespasian is remembered not just for stabilising an empire in turmoil, but for his ambitious public works that have stood the test of time. His reign marked the beginning of the construction of the Colosseum, a symbol of Roman ingenuity and resilience. Much like Vespasian, former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian will be remembered as a leader who, through vision and sheer determination, transformed her state, laying down new foundations and building new communities and infrastructure that will benefit New South Wales for generations to come.?

Gladys Berejiklian's legacy is one that will be debated for years, but it is undeniably marked by two key facets: her steady leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and her role as the 'builder' of modern New South Wales.

During the turbulent lockdown years, Berejiklian provided reassurance to millions. Her daily briefings, became a trusted source of information and a beacon of calm in the confused daily chaos we all lived and breathed. Her composed demeanor and clear communication were essential in guiding the state through uncharted waters, and for that, she has rightly earned the gratitude of many.?

However, it is her role in transforming the physical landscape of Sydney that will likely be her most enduring legacy. Throughout her tenure, Berejiklian demonstrated a level of foresight, political acumen and ‘investment’ that is rare in modern politics. While many of her contemporaries were preoccupied with the short-term gains necessary for re-election, Berejiklian was looking decades ahead. She understood that the needs of the future depended on the infrastructure laid down today, and she acted decisively to ensure that the state would be ready to meet these pressing demands.?

Whilst the current state leadership under Premier Minns is continuing this great work, under Gladys’ leadership, we witnessed an unprecedented boom in infrastructure projects. The Sydney Metro, stands as a testament to her commitment to modernising the state’s transport system. The Metro not only alleviates congestion on the roads but also connects communities in ways that were previously unimaginable. With the capacity to move 40,000 people per hour in each direction, effectively doubling the capacity of the current suburban rail network, this investment wasn’t just focused on transport; but focused on the future communities of North-West Sydney.?

Similarly, the completion of the M8 and M5 motorways were another feather in Berejiklian's cap. Both significantly reducing travel times for commuters and freight, while enhancing the economic connectivity of the state.

These projects, along with countless others, were not just about building roads and railways. They were about connecting communities, fostering economic growth, and preparing New South Wales for a future where it could compete on a global stage.

From her time as transport minister, to Treasurer and finally as Premier, Gladys united communities through infrastructure projects the likes many have never seen before.?

Yet, despite these monumental achievements, it is the perceived transgressions related to her personal life that will dominate future google searches. While public figures must indeed be held to high ethical standards, it is important that we do not allow personal matters to overshadow the immense contributions she made to the state.

Many are quick to point fingers, yet none can take away from her achievements. The infrastructure Berejiklian championed is not just a series of construction projects; it is the lifeblood of a growing, thriving state. For the public good, her legacy will live on, etched into the very roads and railways that crisscross this great city, connecting its people and driving its economy forward.

In the annals of history, Berejiklian should be remembered much like Vespasian. Just as Vespasian's reign is celebrated not just for the peace and harmony he brought Rome, but for the public works he created, so too should Berejiklian be remembered not for the controversies that ended her career, but for the cities she built, the communities she connected, and the infrastructure she laid down. Many have transformed our city, but none so to the magnitude Gladys has achieved.

Her vision and dedication has truly earned her place among the great builders of our time, for our state and indeed our nation.

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