We got a few 'Hear, hear!'s there, and I think it's just incredible, because we all know that the words are true. That's the sort of feedback I've been giving. Many people in Durack have reached out to me, understandably. I represent a very large electorate, and people are worried about me. I said: 'Don't worry about me! Let's just worry about Helen. That's what our focus should be.' But it's truly wonderful, the number of people around the country and even internationally, who are caring about Helen at the moment—and so they should. I just want them to know that all the words you're hearing here about what a wonderful human being she is are all true. We know Helen is kind, she is sincere, she's smart, she's hardworking and she's incredibly passionate about her wonderful regional electorate called Indi.

I want to acknowledge and thank Helen's husband, Phil, who joined us here in the House this morning. Honestly, I can't even imagine what it would be like for my dear partner, Brad, to have to come and face that many politicians. But I tell you what, it takes bravery, it takes courage and of course it takes love and care to address us just a week after the incident and while Helen remains in hospital. So thank you, Phil. It really was very meaningful, your coming to the House to speak to us today.

In the week of reflection since last Monday afternoon, I think the biggest lesson for me has been that we do need to be much kinder to one another, both in this place and in society more broadly. Life is, frankly, far too precious and too short not to be kinder to each other. We don't have to always agree with one another, but we could try harder to disagree respectfully. That kindness was on display last Monday when ordinary Australians rushed to Helen's aid when they were able to restrain the driver. We saw it in the first responders, the paramedics and police officers, who attended the scene last week. They quite simply are the best of us.

Much has been discussed and debated about the way we conduct ourselves as members of parliament in debate. We must not lose what makes our democracy great and what has served our democracy so well, and that is debate and constructive conversations. The role of the opposition is to hold the government to account. We know this is a vital part of our democracy, and we should be proud of the fact that all Australians are heard and represented to get the best outcomes for our country. We should follow Phil's advice in consideration of when we are speaking in the public or in the media or in parliament. We must think whether we are inflaming or whether we're contributing meaningfully to the debate and conversation. It's pretty simple, really. Thanks for the advice, Phil.

Members, particularly we regional members, must not shy away from our responsibilities and roles of representing our very diverse communities, and I note the good member being the deputy speaker here, the member for Lingiari, knows all about those diverse communities. We must not let the darkness win and must instead take inspiration from Helen's first responders. They are what makes Australia great. Across society, we must use this tragedy as a turning point for Australians more broadly. Violence is never okay, whether it's against teachers, nurses, police officers, supermarket workers, paramedics or politicians. It has no place in Australia. Today is not a day for pointing fingers at each other, society or social media. It instead is on all of us to moderate our own actions and maybe even point the finger at ourselves and reflect on how we can do better. To Helen: get well, my friend. Keep fighting. I look forward to seeing your smiling face over there very soon.