Anne Stanley (Werriwa, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Sewa Australia, a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation that operates in south-west Sydney and the electorate of Werriwa. Sewa began in 1997 with a small group of individuals who wanted to make a difference. They started supporting six families in need and participating in Clean Up Australia Day. Since then, the organisation has branched out considerably. They now provide support to migrant families, with family therapy services and job information sessions to help them begin building roots in our community.

Sewa engages in activities that strengthen and support our community, like blood donation drives, tree-planting and seniors-empowerment initiatives. They also support communities across Australia during difficult times, raising funds for disaster relief in the New South Wales and Queensland fires and during the COVID pandemic. It was an honour to be invited to their Silver Jubilee celebrations on 16 April, to celebrate their achievements over 25 years, and to enjoy a night that was filled with performances, music and food. Thank you to President Dakshin, New South Wales Secretary Rao, and everyone involved in putting together the event for their warm welcome and hospitality. It was such a beautiful night. I look forward to seeing Sewa grow so they can provide amazing services for our community.