Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Ayubowen and hello. I rise to wish the Sri Lankan Australian community and everyone back in Sri Lanka a very happy 78th independence day. For many, independence marks the beginning of a new chapter—one defined by hope, resilience and ambition. While Sri Lanka has faced challenges along the way, the enduring friendship between our two nations has remained constant. That bond is best reflected in our vibrant diaspora. Today, more than 170,000 people of Sri Lankan heritage call Australia home. We have built our lives here and embraced the opportunities Australia provides while carrying our culture with us in the languages we speak and the food we share. As I raise my son, Ilija, I feel how important it is to pass these traditions on. No matter the distance, we never forget where we come from. As the first Sri Lankan born woman elected to this parliament and Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Sri Lanka, I remain deeply committed to strengthening the ties between our two nations. Happy independence day!