Page "Joan Kirner" Paragraph 7

Conservative Melbourne newspaper the Herald Sun reacted with hostility to a Premier from the socialist left, dubbing her " Mother Russia " and other pejorative names.

She was lampooned alternatively as a sinister commissar and as a frumpy housewife in a polka dot dress.

She allowed the Victorian Trades Hall Council to influence government policy.

She seemed unfazed and gradually won some respect, although she was unable to restore the government's standing.