Austra has long been involved with public sector unions, environmental issues and political advocacy, including lobbying politicians, submissions to various inquiries and extensive policy development work. Austra's passion is the protection of Tasmania's wild forests, and she ably contributed to Forest Peace Deal negotiations. Austra's work is recognised through being a Life Membership of the C.P.S.U. and the Tasmanian Greens, and being listed on the Honour Roll of Tasmanian Women.