Gabriel Ng (Menzies, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

It's been around eight weeks since I was elected member for Menzies. I have made it a priority to get out and meet as many people, community groups and local organisations as possible. It has been an eventful eight weeks. I've had the privilege of visiting local schools, attending citizenship ceremonies, welcoming new Australians and visiting our many sporting clubs. It was a pleasure to attend the Bulleen Boomers, Donvale Football Club, Doncaster Bowling Club and the Bulleen Templestowe football and cricket clubs. Sports clubs like these are a vital part of the electorate that provide not only physical health benefits but a sense of community. I am continually blown away by the work and dedication that the committees and other volunteers put into keeping these clubs going.

It was also a privilege to meet our local students at East Doncaster Secondary College, Warrendyte High School and Blackburn High School. I have no doubt that some of them will go on to become the leaders of tomorrow. They are bright, thoughtful and full of energy. While visiting these schools, I was fortunate to meet their teachers and school leaders. They are fierce advocates for their communities, showing remarkable dedication and skill in one of the most important jobs there is. I would particularly like to acknowledge the achievement of Blackburn High School, who in May this year travelled to New York and made history by performing at the prestigious Essentially Ellington jazz festival. I had the privilege of hearing them play at state parliament, and their talent and hard work, as well as the dedication of their teachers, was clear in every note. It is moments like these that remind me why it is such an honour and an inspiration to serve.

I'd also like to congratulate the successful recipients of the latest Stronger Communities Program grants and thank them for the work they do to make our community the inclusive, vibrant and compassionate place that it is. The successful recipients showcased the width and breadth of the community life across the electorate. Congratulations to Warrandyte arts, Warrandyte Football Club, the Veneto clubs, the Bulleen Lions, Doncaster Bowling Club, Doncare Community Services, the Bulleen Templestowe Basketball Club and Manningham United Blues. These grants will support improvements in safety and accessibility, help upgrade facilities and contribute to lowering power costs. Most importantly, they will allow these organisations to continue to grow and serve the people of our community into the future.

This past Saturday morning I was out doorknocking in Blackburn South, speaking with residents about the issues that are important to them. One of the most common concerns raised was the importance of being able to access affordable, timely health care. I was pleased to share with the residents I spoke to that our government's record investment in Medicare will boost bulk-billing rates. We'll also be increasing the health workforce, with the largest GP training program in Australian history funding the training of 2,000 new doctors by 2028.

While the Albanese Labor government have successfully brought down inflation and provided 18 months of real wage growth, we know that cost-of-living pressures remain. The residents I spoke to were happy to hear that they will receive a further $150 in energy bill relief this year. Others asked about the government's solar battery discounts, which will help families reduce their energy bills while supporting the transition to renewable energy. We also discussed education, housing affordability and climate change.

These conversations made it clear that the people of Menzies are engaged, thoughtful and deeply invested in the wellbeing of the community. It was a pleasure to be back doorknocking, and I want to thank all the residents of Blackburn South who gave their time and shared their views. Your voices matter.

On Sunday I had the opportunity to take part in National Tree Day. I planted indigenous trees and shrubs, alongside local volunteers. I want to thank Manningham Council and Whitehorse City Council for organising these events, and also the friends of Wurundjeri Walk for their work caring for our open spaces.

Menzies is full of activity, energy and community spirit. Whether in our schools, sports clubs, businesses or bushland, there is always something happening. As the saying goes, start as you mean to go on. I will continue to reach out to, listen to and be ready to advocate for the people of Menzies.

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