Fatima Payman Biography: Wikipedia, Age, Parents, Political Career, Salary, Contact Details, Husband, Net Worth
Fatima Payman Biography
Fatima Payman is an Afghan-born Australian politician who has been serving as a senator for Western Australia since 2022. Born in Kabul, Afghanistan, she spent three years in Pakistan before migrating to Perth with her family in 2003.
Payman went to the Australian Islamic College and pursued a pharmacy degree at the University of Western Australia. She was president of Young Labor WA and an organizer for the United Workers Union before becoming an electorate officer for West Australian Labor politician Pierre Yang.
Notably, Payman was elected to the Australian Senate as a senator for Western Australia in the 2022 Australian federal election. She is distinguished as the third-youngest person ever elected to the Senate and the first Muslim member of parliament to wear a hijab.
Fatima Payman Age
Fatima Payman was born 1995, making her approximately 29 years old as of 2024.
Fatima Payman Early Life and Family
Born in Kabul, Afghanistan in 1995, Fatima Payman experienced the tumultuous realities of war and conflict firsthand. When she was just five years old, her family fled the Taliban regime, seeking refuge in Pakistan. After three years there, they migrated to Perth, Australia, in 2003.
Family Struggles and Settlement in Australia: Her father arrived in Australia via boat in 1999 and worked various jobs—security guard, kitchen hand, and taxi driver—to support his family. The rest of the family joined him in 2003, settling in Perth. Her mother even started a business giving driving lessons. Tragically, in 2018, her father passed away from leukemia.
Fatima Payman Educational Background
Fatima Payman attended the Australian Islamic College in Perth, where she excelled academically and emerged as a leader. In 2013, she graduated as head girl. Her thirst for knowledge led her to the University of Western Australia, where she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Sociology and later obtained a Graduate Diploma of Pharmaceutical Science.
Fatima Payman Physical Features
Fatima Payman stands at approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, which translates to about 170 centimeters or 1.70 meters. Her weight is approximately 55 kilograms (or 121 pounds). She has black hair and black eyes.
Fatima Payman Political Career
Labor Party Involvement and Advocacy
Payman’s passion for politics ignited during her university years. She became an active member of the Labor Party, serving as president of Young Labor WA. Her advocacy work focused on social justice, workers’ rights, and multiculturalism. She engaged with diverse communities, amplifying their voices and championing inclusivity.
Election to the Australian Senate
In 2022, Payman achieved a historic milestone. She was elected to the Australian Senate as a senator for Western Australia. At just 27 years old, she became the third-youngest member ever to hold this position. Her victory resonated beyond party lines, inspiring young Australians and demonstrating the power of representation.
Breaking Barriers: The First Muslim Senator in a Hijab
Payman’s presence in the Senate is groundbreaking. As the first Muslim member of parliament to wear a hijab, she challenges stereotypes and fosters greater understanding. Her commitment to religious freedom and cultural diversity is evident in her actions, speeches, and advocacy within the political arena.
Independent Stance and Advocacy for Palestine
Payman’s journey took an unexpected turn when she crossed the floor to support an Australian Greens resolution recognizing a Palestinian state. This decision led to her suspension from the Labor caucus, but it also highlighted her unwavering principles. She now sits as an independent senator, continuing her fight for justice, human rights, and global solidarity.
Fatima Payman Controversies
Crossing the Senate Floor for Palestine
In a bold move, Payman crossed the Senate floor to vote against her government in support of a motion on Palestinian statehood. This action led to her temporary suspension from the Labor Party, and she now sits as an independent senator. Her decision sparked debates about practicality, fairness, and the role of politicians in representing their communities.
Intense Bullying and Intimidation
Following her vote, Payman faced intense bullying and intimidation from colleagues. The pressure she endured highlights the challenges faced by politicians who take principled stands on contentious issues.
Islamophobic Attacks and Media Coverage
Unfortunately, the controversy surrounding Payman has also exposed Islamophobic attacks. She has been labeled a turncoat, a religious zealot, and even a non-Australian motivated by greed. The media coverage has been polarized, emphasizing the need for respectful discourse and understanding.
Exile and Consequences
On July 1, Payman revealed on Facebook that she had been “exiled” from the Labor Party. She was removed from caucus meetings, group chats, and all committees. Her decision to cross the Senate floor and vote against her government came with significant consequences.
Fatima Payman Award
In recognition of her groundbreaking role as the first Muslim woman to wear a hijab in the Australian Parliament, Fatima Payman was awarded the prestigious title of “Australian Muslim Role Model of the Year”.
Fatima Payman Husband
As of now, Fatima Payman is unmarried and does not have children.
Fatima Payman Salary
As of 2024, Fatima Payman’s salary is approximately $233,000 per year. However, it’s essential to note that this figure can vary based on additional allowances, responsibilities, and any recent changes in legislation.
Fatima Payman Net Worth
Fatima Payman has an estimated net worth $1.5 million as of 2024.
Fatima Payman Social Media Presence
Fatima Payman maintains an active presence on social media. Here are her social media handles:
- Facebook: Senator Fatima Payman
- Instagram: @SenatorPayman
- Instagram: @senatorfatimapayman
Fatima Payman Contact Details
Fatima Payman can be contacted through the following channels:
- Email: You can reach her at senator.payman@aph.gov.au.
- Phone (Perth Office): Call (08) 6245 3322.
- Canberra Office: Her phone number there is (02) 6277 3417.
Fatima Payman Electorate Office Address (Perth)
Her office is located at Suite 10, Commonwealth Parliamentary Offices, Level 40, Exchange Tower, 2 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000 GPO Box B58, Perth WA 6838.
FAQs
Where was Fatima Payman born?
Fatima Payman was born in Kabul, Afghanistan.
What is her notable achievement in Australian politics?
Fatima Payman is the first Muslim member of parliament to wear a hijab and the third-youngest member ever elected to the Australian Senate.
What motivated her to join politics?
Her father’s experiences of workplace abuse and exploitation inspired her to join the United Workers Union and become president of Young Labor WA.
What committees has she chaired?
Fatima Payman was the Chair of Standing Committee on Publications and the Deputy Chair of Joint Committee on Publications.
What significant action did she take regarding Palestine?
In 2024, she crossed the floor to support an Australian Greens resolution to recognize a Palestinian state, leading to her suspension from the Labor caucus.
What is her current political affiliation?
After quitting the Labor Party, she now sits as an independent senator.
