Anne Aly (Cowan, Australian Labor Party, Minister for International Development) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I want to recognise two outstanding contributors to the Cowan community. They're also the recipients of the City of Stirling's 2026 Community Citizen of the Year Awards, and their work reflects the very best of who we are. The first is the Perth Rhinos Basketball club. It's more than just a sporting organisation; it's a lifeline for young people seeking connection, belonging and opportunity. The club was originally established to create elite pathways for South Sudanese youth, but it has grown into a truly inclusive club that welcomes everyone. For many young people who have experienced disengagement or social isolation, the Rhinos offer something that cannot be measured on a scoreboard: a sense of inclusion and safety, mentoring and a place to grow with confidence. Through mentors from diverse backgrounds, the Rhinos are building resilience and leadership in the next generation, and their recognition as winners of the Active Citizenship Award is well deserved. It reminds us that grassroots organisations are often the quiet engines of social cohesion. What they give these young people is dignity, empowerment and a sense of belonging that strengthens our entire community.

I also want to acknowledge the remarkable Vicky Young. She's the president and co-founder of Dandelions WA, and she's been named Community Citizen of the Year by the City of Stirling. Vicky's work is grounded in compassion and action—the kind of combination that really has an impact on changing lives. This year alone, Dandelions WA will provide 17,000 backpacks to children who might otherwise start school without the essentials that many of us take for granted. But the impact of Dandelions WA goes far beyond backpacks because, under Vicky's leadership, they now support people experiencing homelessness, women and families fleeing violence, individuals in hospital and others navigating hardship. Vicky ensures that people in crisis feel seen and that they are supported and treated with dignity, and she shows us that leadership doesn't always come with grand gestures. Often it's the steady, thoughtful work that makes the greatest difference.

Both worthy recipients embody what it truly means to lift others up. Their commitment to inclusion, dignity and opportunity speaks to values that we should all hold dearly here, and together they remind us of the extraordinary power of community and what is possible when we choose to lift one another up.

Ben Small (Forrest, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 193, the time for members' statements has expired.