Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I wish to make a brief contribution to the debate regarding this issue. I wish it to be known that I support this bill, the Early Childhood Education and Care (Strengthening Regulation of Early Education) Bill 2025. The alleged crimes that have been committed against vulnerable children, as well as the ongoing investigations, have shocked communities around our country. The perpetrators of these horrific crimes must be brought to justice. I'm supporting this bill because it strengthens the Commonwealth's regulatory and enforcement powers to impose safety and quality outcomes in early education. I think it's important that we support any measure that can improve child safety. We must be doing it in this House. So I commend the bill to the House.

As a sidenote to my comments, I note that votes have already taken place on the last two pieces of legislation I have spoken on; my speeches have occurred after the votes. I know the government has a very strong majority in this House, but we need to be respecting the processes of the parliament. That means that we should be having debates where all members get an opportunity to have their say, and then we vote. That is what the public expect. They don't want to see votes taking place and then members merely making statements after the fact. I think it is important to note that there is a community expectation that those processes be adhered to and respected in accordance with the traditions of this parliament. Having said that, I believe that this bill does make an important contribution to child safety and should be supported by all members. So, for those reasons, I commend the bill to the House.

See this speech in context