Madonna Jarrett (Brisbane, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm very proud to be part of a government that is delivering a better and fairer education system for all, because we know that education has the power to change lives. As we approach the year end, the season of graduations, awards nights, farewells and celebrations reminds us of just that. Today I recognise all the teachers, students, staff and families across each of the 50-plus schools providing critical learning to young people in the Brisbane electorate. Together, this community gives our young people the opportunity to be who and what they want to be.

Over recent weeks, I've had the privilege of attending many graduation and awards celebrations across primary, secondary, public and private schools. Some of these include Aviation High School, Everton Park, St James College, Kedron State High School, Marist College Ashgrove, Mt St Michael's, Brisbane Girls Grammar and Kelvin Grove State College. I could not have been more inspired by the calibre of young people I met—their achievements, their optimism and the strong sense of community that surrounds them—and it leaves me feeling incredibly positive about what is possible in our shared future.

To the teachers, principals and staff: thank you for your commitment to education, to care and to opportunity. You spend significant formative time with our young people, shaping them into who they will become. To the families and friends: thank you, as well. Your encouragement, your patience, your tuckshop duties, your packed lunches, your taxi services, those last minute assignments, et cetera—your presence has been vital. And to our students: congratulations. Another chapter is closed. For many, this time brings some mixed emotions. Maybe it's pride in what's been achieved. Maybe it's excitement about what lies ahead, or perhaps even a little trepidation as graduates step into unfamiliar territory. Whatever the next chapter, whether it's university training, an apprenticeship, work or even just time to explore the world, I wish them courage, curiosity and confidence.

In recent weeks I also visited a number of primary schools looking at civics and citizenship modules. We talked about democracy, what it's like being a member of parliament and how to be active members in our communities. Some students even wrote to me in advance, expressing their views on the challenges we're facing. I got letters on the cost of living, inflation, house prices, aged care, the war in Ukraine, and a humanitarian approach to refugees. Once again, I feel very hopeful and inspired. These young students are on the cusp of finishing primary school. They have many distractions and interests, yet they're very engaged in our world, and they're engaged with empathy, awareness and intent. These students are our future. Given their quality, our future is in very capable hands. Well done to all of them, and thank you to those who make our Brisbane schools vibrant, supportive and hopeful places.