Michelle Rowland (Greenway, Australian Labor Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to remember the life of Anita Cobby, who was cruelly taken from us 40 years ago at the hands of monsters. For my community of Blacktown, which prides itself on connection and neighbourliness, the loss of a young woman with her whole life ahead of her sent shockwaves that are still felt today. Anita was a beloved daughter, sister and friend. Her life mattered, and her death forever changed our community and the nation.

I rise today not to dwell on the horrific violence that took Anita's life and how the manner of her death, after being snatched by an evil gang of animals on her way home one night from Blacktown Station, was an abomination; rather, let us remember who she was and the legacy that emerged from profound tragedy, and, most importantly, make clear that this government is working every day to ensure these horrific acts of violence can be prevented. Anita's murder was a painful reminder of the very real dangers Australian women face, not just in moments of vulnerability but in everyday life. It has challenged our justice system to do better and to place the safety of all Australians at its core.

The impact of Anita's death extended far beyond Blacktown. It contributed to national conversations about violence against women and the role of the law in protecting those at risk. Out of unimaginable grief, Anita's family chose compassion and action to ensure her memory would become a force for good. That legacy lives on through initiatives such as Grace's Place, a refuge that offers safety, dignity and healing to women and children escaping violence.

Anita's parents, Grace and Garry Lynch, also fought for truth and sentencing reforms, and Anita's legacy continues to drive the Homicide Victims Support Group Australia, which supports innocent families of homicide victims. The contributions of Grace and Garry Lynch have resulted in measurable change for victims and their families. However, there's so much more to do. That's why our government has made women's safety a national priority, recognising that preventing violence and holding perpetrators to account requires sustained effort and strong laws. Through the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children, reforms to strengthen sexual assault laws and record investment in frontline services, including in the National Access to Justice Partnership, this government is working to ensure women are safer at home, at work and in their communities.

As an Attorney-General born and bred in Blacktown, I am also working every day to ensure that the safety of all Australians remains central to the development of Commonwealth laws. May Anita Cobby's light continue to shine. May her legacies four decades on remind us why this work matters. May she never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Anita Cobby.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!