Andrew Giles (Scullin, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Skills and Training) Share this | Hansard source

Today is of course 25 March, and that means it is Greek Independence Day. In my electorate, the local Greek community are gathering to celebrate a day that should be remembered not only by the Greek community but by us all for it's important significance historically and as we look forward. Because I'm here, I cannot be there, but I do want to recognise the extraordinary influence the Greek Australian community has had in shaping modern Australia. I think it's fair to say that it is an indelible influence, and it's particularly found in that corner of Melbourne's northern suburbs that I'm so proud to represent here.

Much of the Greek Australian community arrived following a period of postwar instability in Europe with little to their names other than hope, hard work and aspiration for a better future. When we fast forward from that time to today, we see an extraordinary immigration success story—deep roots across local communities, businesses thriving, strong families and vibrant cultural institutions and connections to culture that enrich us all. I say, to Secretary George Sachinidis and the entire Greek Orthodox community of Whittlesea, zito I Ellada

We've just celebrated International Women's Day, a critical opportunity for all of us to recognise and to celebrate the contributions of women in our own communities, our own lives and a broader sense. It's also vital that we recommit ourselves at this time to the work that must be done to address ongoing gender inequality. With that in mind, I hosted an International Women's Day event in my electorate of Scullin, a gathering of strong, inspiring women from diverse backgrounds who are, all in their own way, making contributions to Melbourne's northern suburbs and the special community that it is. We were incredibly lucky to be graced with the presence of my great friend and colleague Assistant Minister Ged Kearney, who came and shared her story alongside some local trailblazers like Peta Fualau, Tracy Perry and Jude Armanazi. It was also fantastic to have Whittlesea Community Connections and the Epping Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic—another important women's health initiative to recognise today—on hand to provide tailored assistance.

It was reminder too about the tangible impact the Albanese government's policies are having on the lives of Australian women and on addressing gender based inequities. We are, of course, Australia's first women-majority government and together have delivered real progress: a record low gender pay gap, record investments into women's health and safety and the extension of paid parental leave with super paid on it, too, so women aren't left behind in retirement. In my own portfolio of skills and training, women are around 60 per cent of free-TAFE enrolments. We're breaking down barriers that have held back so many women from getting into previously male dominated trades. I want to thank the fantastic speakers and everyone who came along to this IWD event and recommit myself to working towards an equal Australia.

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