Matt Thistlethwaite (Kingsford Smith, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Immigration) Share this | Hansard source

It's been a tough week for police officers throughout the country, and we pay tribute to and offer commiserations to the families of the two police officers tragically killed in Victoria last week. That's why I want to highlight the great work of the Eastern Beaches Police Area Command in the area that I represent. They recently held their Police Area Command Awards to recognise and pay tribute to the great work of police throughout the country, particularly our local area command, who do their utmost to keep our community safe every year.

Sharing the special evening were the Central Metropolitan Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna, and Detective Superintendent Paul Simpkins. The focus was on supporting police officers at every level. I want to congratulate Constable Luke Noakes for earning the 'Cop's Cop' award, as judged by his peers—a true testament to his commitment and the respect he has earned from them. I also congratulate Detective Sergeant Ryan Booker, who won the award for Leadership in Community Safety.

I'd also like to extend heartfelt thanks to all our local police, who do a wonderful job, day in, day out, keeping our communities safe. They often encounter people at their lowest moments. The mental and emotional toll of their job cannot be overstated. Australians expect much from our police, asking them to be brave, fair and calm no matter the situation. Behind each officer is a support network of family and colleagues. We honour both those serving and those who've lost their lives in the line of duty. If you see a local police officer in your community, please take a moment, particularly at the moment, to thank them for their work.

I was recently honoured to join Kingsford Smith local legend Con Theocharides for a night of volunteering with his organisation A Touch of Kindness in Sydney's Martin Place. Started by Con in 2022, A Touch of Kindness brings together community groups and volunteers to provide food and support for those who are homeless in the Sydney community. They do it every Wednesday night at Martin Place, where they feed the homeless. Unfortunately, the lines have been growing in recent years. The evening is filled with the spirit of generosity as donors and volunteers from all walks of life come together to offer a helping hand and a caring heart. Con said so eloquently that the heart of his work is about touching people's lives. Con is a true leader. He is very involved in the local Greek community, particularly through Saint Catherine's parish church, and he brings together many members of our community to ensure that those in need are fed, that they have clothing and that they get a touch of kindness in their hour of need. Congratulations and thank you, Con.

See this speech in context