Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I am grateful for the opportunity to express my condolences for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty's dedicated service to the people of the United Kingdom and, indeed, all of her subjects within the Commonwealth since 1952 was without equal. For the vast majority of Australians, she was the only monarch we ever knew. Her warmth, presence and voice were a steady source of comfort and reassurance, and their absence will be sorely felt by many.

It is well known that the Queen truly loved Australia and its people. Our easygoing attitude and our beautiful land leave an impression on most, and this was certainly reflected by our Queen. Her admiration was shown on many occasions. Indeed, on her last visit to Australia, in 2011, she remarked:

Ever since I first came here in 1954, I have watched Australia grow and develop at an extraordinary rate. This country has made dramatic progress economically, in social, scientific and industrial endeavours and, above all, in self-confidence.

I do not doubt that the Queen remained impressed with our nation's path since that statement over a decade ago.

As our head of state, Queen Elizabeth oversaw the development of Australia's relationship with the United Kingdom from the 1950s to the present. No matter the issue or event, Her Majesty approached all matters with the grace and diligence she was well known for. She placed her faith in the people of Australia and in our institutions to solve the challenges facing our nation.

The Queen's ability to voluntarily keep together over 50 ethnically, religiously and culturally diverse nations in the Commonwealth for over seven decades is a testament to her statecraft. The Queen was truly dedicated to each Commonwealth nation and showed admiration for all cultures and religions. An example of this commitment was during the height of Britain's response to apartheid in South Africa. Her belief against apartheid was such that she outright rejected then British prime minister Margaret Thatcher's attempts to stop the sanctions against the apartheid regime. No-one was more grateful for her actions than Nelson Mandela, who always referred to the Queen as 'my dear friend Elizabeth'.

While the second Elizabethan era has come to an end, I am confident that our memories of Her Majesty will be with us for the rest of our lives. Queen Elizabeth II's example of public service and dedication should never be forgotten, and this is how I will continue to honour her.

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