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

The Dandenong Ramadan night market is back, and it is bigger and better than last year. It was fantastic to be there on the opening night with the member for Bruce in his electorate, and it was wonderful to have the Prime Minister join us as Thomas Street came alive, with thousands of families, friends and neighbours from different faiths and backgrounds. Moments like these are a powerful reminder of what social cohesion looks like in action. I'm also proud that, this year, the market expanded into my local council area, the City of Casey. Having a cultural celebration of this scale come to Casey is a huge win for our community. Events like this bring people together, showcase culture and highlight the incredible food, music and small businesses that make our south-east so vibrant.

That's why the Albanese Labor government is backing this great community with $75,000 this year, as part of a $225,000 commitment over three years, providing ongoing support to help the market grow and become a permanent fixture on our local calendars. I thank the Bright Community Organisation, especially Ahmad Ghowsi and Ibrahim Hassan, along with the volunteers, stallholders and sponsors who make it possible. (Time expired)