Peter Khalil (Wills, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Defence) | Hansard source

It was 10 years ago today that I had the great privilege of being elected as a member of Wills. In my first speech, I said that I was elected by the people of Wills to serve them and to make a difference in their lives. That sounds simple, but it is a really important commitment and promise. What I've learnt over those years is that, in doing so, it wasn't just a one way effort. I was doing it with them. We did it together. We actually worked together to deliver real improvements for the community, and that's been the most satisfying part of being a member representing my community.

We've secured a Medicare urgent care clinic in Coburg and in Carlton as well, which is also in my electorate now. We've backed local arts, schools, sports clubs and community organisations through all of the different federal government investments, grants and election commitments, which have been so critically important for those communities. In the environment, we've revitalised sections of Moonee Ponds Creek, which is the border of my electorate. It was once a concrete canal—it was all concreted up. We've returned that to nature. We've removed the concrete, and we've done so much to open that up for the local community to enjoy the natural flora and fauna of that urban waterway. I've put two solar community batteries into my electorate. We've funded an amazing arts place called Balam Balam Place in Brunswick that includes an Indigenous art gallery, performance space for artists, and it's just wonderful to visit. Nationally, I think it's important to note that we've delivered multiple tax cuts, more bulk billing, five per cent deposits for people's first home, expanded parental leave and early education, free TAFE, 20 per cent off HECS and so much more.

But most importantly, my office and I have really put first and foremost service to the community as our objective. We've assisted constituents to access Centrelink, the NDIS, aged care and, through other government services, helped them navigate what is often a very difficult process, especially if they're vulnerable and unable to do so of their own volition.

The thing that I'm very proud about as well—and it's very rewarding but difficult work—over these past 10 years is helping hundreds of refugees and migrants secure visas, begin their new lives in Australia and make their contribution. It's one of the great privileges of my time in this place. In my first speech, I warned that we must beware of the demagogues and charlatans who take advantage of the disaffected and angry in our society and direct that anger towards minorities and refugees to stir up their own political ends. Sadly, that warning still pertains today. It's as relevant today as it was then.

I will continue to stand up for the people who are vulnerable in my community. But it's been a great privilege serving in this parliament and serving my community.

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