Louise Miller-Frost (Boothby, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Raise Our Voice in Parliament is a national competition where students from high school and primary school put in speeches for their local member to read out in parliament. Boothby had a bumper crop this year, and the one that I have chosen to speak on is from Ella, who is 10 years old, from Mitcham Primary School, which was also one of the schools that Julia Gillard attended. Ella writes:

Laws aren't just words on a page. They shape how we live every day—our rights, our responsibilities, and the opportunities we have. That's why we need to learn about civics and democracy from a young age. If schools taught us more about how Parliament works, how to vote, and how to speak up for what we believe in, we would grow into citizens who care about fairness and equality. Learning these skills now means we will be ready to lead and make good choices for Australia's future. Another step is creating more opportunities for young people to volunteer. Even though we are kids, we can already make a real difference—helping our neighbours, caring for the environment, or supporting charities. Volunteering teaches us teamwork, kindness, and responsibility. But often, we are told we are too young or not given the chance. The government should support programs that make it easier for children and teenagers to get involved, so we can start contributing today. We have a lot to contribute. By giving us stronger civics education and more chances to volunteer, the government would be building a generation ready to care, to serve, and shape a better tomorrow.