Tania Lawrence (Hasluck, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

In an increasingly uncertain world, one where there are all too many conflicts, it is useful to remind ourselves that as local leaders we must encourage peace and harmony in our own communities. As Minister Aly said, harmony is something we have to build, something we have to strengthen and something we have to defend.

Many recent arrivals and citizens in Western Australia have made their home in Hasluck. Our communities welcome me to their celebrations every week. In fact, I'm still finding colours in my hair from the Kingz Multicultural Club Holi festival I attended in Beechboro. I thank the Tamil Association of WA for bringing the Pongal Harvest Festival to Midland and the Cook Island community for bringing Pacifika. I thank Aliaa from the Alnoor Community Language School for hosting a fantastic iftar and dance in Ellenbrook. Just a day before that event I was at an opening of the Intensive English Centre at Ellenbrook Primary School, where children from all over the globe were singing in harmony. Before that, I was at the Chinese New Year ball celebrating the energy and passion for the Year of the Horse. Our lives are truly enriched by the communities that have made Australia their home. As leaders, let us ensure that our communities feel encouraged to keep sharing those gifts, reinforcing that they belong.

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