Sussan Ley (Farrer, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, on behalf of the opposition I offer you my warmest congratulations on your re-election as the Speaker of the House of Representatives in this 48th Parliament. This chamber has a long tradition of strong, fair Speakers who have carried out this role with dignity, impartiality and a deep respect for parliament. You continue in that tradition. You have already shown, through your time in the chair, a calm and considered approach to the business of this House. You've brought good humour and common sense to what can, at times, be a very lively and unpredictable place.

Beyond this chamber, as has been noted, you've also worked to open up the parliament to make it more accessible and understandable to Australians, especially young Australians. Your efforts through programs like Parliament in Schools have helped bring civics to life, including for students in regional and remote communities. I was pleased to host you in the Farrer electorate during the last term of parliament where we visited rural and remote schools across the region, including the very small school of Pooncarie on the Darling River with two students there on that day; you noted it was the smallest school you'd ever visited.

The role there was to help demystify politics and engage the next generation of Australians about how our democracy works. That work doesn't always make headlines but it makes a real and lasting difference. It is particularly important, with a Lowy Institute survey showing that 36 per cent of our young people aged 18 to 29 do not believe democracy is the best form of government or are indifferent to it. At a time when, the world over, people are looking towards that shiny beacon that is the democratic system of government, your work in engendering an understanding and appreciation for our system of government is critical.

This new parliament begins after an election where, to be frank, the coalition would have preferred a different result. That is the nature of democracy. We respect the outcome and we have resolved to do the job the Australian people have entrusted us with: to be a strong, principled and effective opposition. As an opposition, we will be constructive where we can and critical where we must. The composition of this House has changed, as it does in every election. Friends and colleagues on all sides of the chamber have moved on. I thank them sincerely for their service to the Australian people and to this institution. I also warmly welcome new members of the House. This is a great honour and an immense responsibility. Whether you've arrived on these green benches for the first time or are returning to this place once again, your voice matters and your contribution will help shape the future of our country.

As this new parliament begins it's also fitting to thank all those who make this place work, from the attendants and clerks to security, cleaners and support staff across every wing of the building. We acknowledge their tireless work and commitment to public service. While we are the ones who speak and debate in this chamber, they are the ones who help ensure that we can do so.

The opposition recognises the importance of your role in ensuring this parliament functions well so that robust debate can take place and the voices of Australians from every corner of this country can be heard. We wish you well and look forward to working constructively under your stewardship in this new parliament. Congratulations.

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