Jo Briskey (Maribyrnong, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Recently I had the privilege of visiting St Columba's College in Essendon, where I met with their exceptional student engagement team, an incredibly impressive group of leaders from every year level. In meeting with the student leaders, I was struck immediately by the fact that this team is much more than a formality; they are an active, influential voice in the school's planning and governance. They are already making a tangible difference to the lives of their fellow students. Their current projects are impressive: a homework audit to better balance workloads, the development of a purpose built student leadership program, ongoing reviews of school policy and a refresh of the college's website. These are practical, forward-thinking initiatives that will leave a real legacy. Last year, they championed a more flexible school uniform policy, taking into consideration the evolving needs and desires of the broader student body. That's proof of what happens when young people are listened to and trusted to lead.

We spoke about their goals for the year ahead, the paths that they're looking forward to embarking on, pathways to civic leadership and my own journey into parliament. We also discussed the barriers that still hold women back from public life and why breaking them down matters. It was inspiring to see so many bright, capable young women in the room, ready to lead, to serve and to shape the future. We know that, when young women can see leaders that look like them, they can imagine themselves in those roles too.

I thank Principal Rita Grima, Deputy Principal Brigitte McDonald and the students who took the time to meet with me. Thank you so much for your warm welcome and for sharing your insightful perspectives. You have my full confidence that your leadership will extend well beyond the school gates. Helping young people grow as leaders is one of the best investments we can make, and, at St Columba's, as in so many of the incredible local schools right across Maribyrnong, that investment is already paying off. I can't wait to see where these remarkable young leaders go next. It really was an incredible opportunity to meet with these young women, from the early years of high school right through to the seniors—year 7 to year 12. These women are going to have a remarkable impact on their community, and I wish them, especially those seniors who'll be finishing up very soon, all the very best for the years ahead.

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