Milton Dick (Speaker) | Link to this | Hansard source

Before we move to question time, it gives me enormous pleasure to inform the House that present in the southern gallery today are representatives of the first ever National Youth Parliament. Joining us, we have 150 young people representing all 150 electorates in this country. They have travelled from every corner of Australia, bringing with them a diverse range of perspectives and ideas, to experience Australian democracy firsthand. Over the next few days, youth members will participate in simulated parliamentary debates and in workshops with political leaders and will grapple with real-world policy challenges, gaining a deeper understanding of how parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law. There's never been a more important time for our youth to be involved in civics education. I wish every one of you the best of luck as you participate in this historic program. Welcome to question time.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!

Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) | Link to this | Hansard source

on indulgence—It was my great pleasure to address the National Youth Parliament members just a short time ago up in the Mural Hall. And it was a great pleasure. There are people from all 150 electorates represented here. I do want to say as well that this is an opportunity for you to contribute ideas. Your future is longer than that of most of us on this floor will be, so you have a very real interest in what happens in this country and in shaping change. The young men and women with whom I was able to have exchanges showed why you are here. It is because you are people of ideas and you are people who are committed to Australia's future.

Mr Speaker, I do also want to say congratulations to you. This is your initiative as Speaker of the House of Representatives. It's an example of the way in which you are using the high position that you hold to promote democracy. It is to your great credit that you have achieved this, and to that of all the members and senators from across both sides of the chamber who were there as well, talking and engaging with their young people. That was really good to see. I'd encourage the members of the Youth Parliament who haven't made contact and engaged personally with their local members of parliament who are here to please do so.

Lastly, have fun while you're here in Canberra.

Dan Tehan (Wannon, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction) | Link to this | Hansard source

on indulgence—Speaker, I join the Prime Minister in saying thank you for what you've done to make sure that democracy is spread right throughout Australia, especially with young people, because it is facing challenges. It is facing headwinds, and your initiative is fantastic.

It was wonderful to join with you this morning. We went up to the roof of parliament and we had the great honour and privilege, with all these young people, of unfurling the Australian flag and then winding it back up, and that flag is going to be sent around the nation. The whole way this has been done has been quite extraordinary.

I will finish on this note. I say to you all: be very, very ready because, if someone gets booted out today, then you might have to come down and substitute in their spot! So be on your toes, because this is a new initiative we're going to bring. Well done, Speaker.

Milton Dick (Speaker) | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm happy to oblige. We shall move to questions without notice.