I was delighted to attend Hare Krishna Melbourne's Holi celebrations in the Melbourne's south-east with my dear friend and senator for Western Australia, Varun Ghosh. I would like to thank Bhakta Dasa, Nitin Pullat and everyone at ISKCON for inviting us to join these wonderful celebrations. In today's world, where divisiveness often threatens to overshadow our shared humanity, Holi serves as a powerful reminder of the values that unite us. Happy Holi.
]]>While meeting so many upcoming female leaders at the school, I was filled with hope and inspiration for the bright future ahead. I was reminded that, as the first female member of parliament representing Holt, I had a heavy weight on my shoulders. I was reminded of the responsibility of leading by example, of showing these future leaders that one day they too can represent our wonderful community. As I reflected on their excitement, I understood the role women in leadership play in not only shaping policies and initiatives that promote inclusivity but also showing that inclusivity is possible and achievable. As we advocate for equality and strive to break down barriers, our influence trickles down and inspires young girls like those at Cranbourne Secondary College to lead.
]]>The history of superannuation in Australia is deeply entwined with the Labor movement's tireless advocacy for the working class. For decades prior to the establishment of a formal superannuation scheme, the welfare of retirees often depended on negotiated agreements between labour unions and employers. However, it was the vision and determination of the Labor party that led to the creation of a comprehensive superannuation system designed to provide security and dignity in retirement for all Australians. The pivotal moment came in 1983, with the Prices and Incomes Accord, a historic agreement between the government, businesses and trade unions. This marked the beginning of employer contribution to superannuation funds, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting self-funded retirement savings and reducing reliance on publicly funded pension systems. Despite initial resistance from small-business groups, the introduction of compulsory superannuation was a triumph for working Australians, ensuring that all employees had access to secure retirement savings.
The Hawke-Keating government had a vision for a three-pillar approach to retirement income—comprising compulsory employer contribution, additional voluntary contribution and a means-tested government-funded age pension—that would lay the foundation for a robust and sustainable retirement income system. In 1992 this scheme was complemented with the superannuation guarantee, ensuring that all employers had to contribute a set amount on top of their employee's salaries. When former Treasurer Dawkins introduced the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Bill 1992, he noted that one of the objectives of the superannuation guarantee was to extend coverage to those who did not have it. He stated:
Superannuation was the preserve of a few, mainly the wealthy …
The reform of superannuation has been one of the great achievements of the Government. Over its term of office, the Government has greatly expanded access to superannuation savings. In particular, award superannuation has fostered the spread of superannuation to large areas of the work force which previously had no cover.
This scheme has been a huge success, placing wealth in the hands of working Australians on a scale not seen around the world, reaching an estimated $3.5 trillion in 2023.
Subsequent governments have contributed to the evolution of the superannuation system, gradually increasing the superannuation guarantee rate and introducing reforms to improve portability and performance. Superannuation moves people off the age pension, lowering future government payments and ensuring that as the population ages the government can still afford to provide vital services. In the UK, spending on the pension accounts for 5.1 per cent of GDP. In Australia, because of our superannuation system, spending on the age pension is only 2.3 per cent of GDP and is expected to fall even as the average Australian gets older.
Australia boasts a world-class superannuation system which has been admired by countries around the globe. However, over the past decade superannuation policy has been marred by confusion, costliness and chaos. We have witnessed the detrimental impact of short-sighted decision-making, including the raiding of superannuation funds for purposes unrelated to retirement savings, resulting in significant losses for millions of Australians. Because of the choices of the previous Liberal government, around $36 billion in savings were drained out of super accounts in a matter of months. A 35-year-old who withdrew $10,000 under the COVID early-release scheme—a third of average savings for someone that age—will be over $150,000 worse off in retirement. And 600,000 young people under the age of 35 who made this decision now have no super at all.
At every opportunity, the coalition chooses to use workers superannuation to bail itself out of difficult and important policy decisions. Underscoring this is that while opposing paid family and domestic violence leave the Liberals were in the process of drafting legislation that would have forced women fleeing violent relationships to access their superannuation to fund their escape. Now the Liberal Party wants to raid your retirement savings again so that you can afford a home. These decisions, once again, align with the Liberal Party's policies to bury their heads in the sand and rob from the next generation.
That is why I stand today to support this bill. Rather than thinking of the short term, we are here to outline a long-term vision for our great nation. Despite its central role in the retirement income system, there is no agreed objective of superannuation to serve as a guide for policymakers. The primary object of this bill is to define the purpose of superannuation so there is long-term assurance to the system. We have set forward a simple objective for the system to preserve savings to deliver income for a dignified retirement alongside government support in an equitable and sustainable way. This clear and concise objective will serve as a guiding principle for all stakeholders, fostering greater confidence in our superannuation system. By legislating an objective for superannuation, we aim to prevent mismanagement and ensure that the focus remains squarely on the long-term interests of members. This objective will safeguard the integrity of the superannuation system, reaffirming its commitment to providing a dignified retirement for all Australians. It will ensure that snap decisions of a government will not lead to a generation of Australians missing out.
This bill will secure the future of superannuation by embedding its purpose into law, thereby ensuring that any future changes to the system are aligned with this overarching objective. Ministers will be required to justify proposed changes to superannuation to parliament, considering this legislated purpose. This will ensure accountability and transparency in decision-making processes that impact Australians' retirement savings. Importantly, the objective outlined in this legislation does not absolve superannuation trustees from their existing obligations. Trustees will continue to be bound by their duty to make investment decisions in the best financial interests of their members. Additionally, members will retain the ability to access their superannuation on compassionate grounds or in cases of genuine financial hardship. As more Australians than ever before approach retirement age, the imperative of enhanced retirement incomes has never been more pressing. This bill represents a crucial step towards strengthening our superannuation system for the next generation, ensuring its resilience and effectiveness in supporting retirees.
I am pleased to note the strong support for this bill from industrial stakeholders, whose engagement has been invaluable throughout the legislative process. The ACTU wrote in its submission that it 'is pleased that the government has considered the objective of superannuation from first principles' and proposed an objective which would go closer to the originating purpose of superannuation.
It is predicted that by 2035 the superannuation system, currently worth $3.5 trillion, will outstrip the Australian banking sector. This will see superannuation playing a significant role in contributing to the strength of our financial markets. There are opportunities to leverage its national economic priorities while aligning them with the best interests of members.
Already, the superannuation sector invests in vital long-term assets such as toll roads, electricity grids, airports, hospitals, housing and ports. Just this week, former federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, chair of Cbus, made a commitment for super funds to have a substantial role in building 40,000 affordable homes to help fix the nation's housing crisis. He stated:
… We are confident that investment in the social housing sector has the potential to be a win-win for our members—by providing stable long-term returns for their super balances, as well as construction industry jobs …
This is the long-term vision we need for super: to provide a dignified retirement for Australians, to support working-class Australians to build wealth and to invest in our country's future.
This bill marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of Australia's superannuation system. As custodians of this pivotal pillar of our social and economic infrastructure, it is upon us to protect and enhance it for the benefit of current and future generations. I am proud to stand before you as a member of the Labor Party, which plays a pivotal role in building and safeguarding Australia's super system.
In conclusion, superannuation stands as a testament to the Labor Party's commitment to advancing the interests of the working class and promoting economic fairness and social justice. As we reflect on the history of superannuation in Australia, we must recognise it as one of the great achievements of the Labor Party movement, ensuring that all Australians can retire with dignity and security. Let us continue to work together to ensure that it remains a cornerstone of retirement security for all Australians.
I extend my gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Treasurer for their work on this bill. I commend this bill to the House.
]]>I especially want to thank him for his incredible support for our community as the minister of Hampton Park Uniting Church and as the vice-chair and former chairperson of Hampton Park Community House. For years, under his leadership, the Hampton Park Uniting Church has helped thousands of people in our community by ensuring they get access to support services such as food relief, free legal services and playgroups. His selfless contribution has been driven by a genuine commitment to further embed the church and the community house as welcoming places of support, inclusion and empowerment. I thank you for your invaluable service, Reverend Ric.
]]>Today we have seen the publication of individual companies' gender pay gaps by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency. This signals a momentous shift in Australia's approach to measuring gender parity in the workforce. For too long gender pay gaps have lurked in the shadows. They have perpetuated systemic injustice that upset the full participation and advancement of women. But with a stroke of the legislative pen in March 2023 by the Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher, we are seeing a new era of transparency—one that holds employers accountable for the conditions within their workplaces. The public naming and shaming of companies with significant gender pay gaps will serve as a powerful catalyst for change and compel them to confront gender pay inequalities head on.
Under the stewardship of the Labor government, the gender pay gap has fallen to its lowest point in a decade, with the latest figures revealing a 14.8 per cent gap in the private sector and a notably reduced 10.4 per cent gap in the public sector. We should recognise this as tangible progress. However, despite these remarkable strides in recent years, there is still so much work to be done.
For the first time in our nation's history under the Albanese government, we boast a majority of the federal caucus being women, with a record number of women occupying seats in cabinet. This milestone isn't just a symbol; it is transformative. It underscores our firm belief in the power of diversity and the proven impact of having women at the decision-making table. Let me be clear: it makes a big difference. Having women in positions of leadership isn't just about representation; it's about driving solid change. It's about recognising the unique perspectives and experiences that women bring to the parliament and utilising them to shape policies that uplift and empower all members of our society.
Over the course of Labor's first two budgets, we have also made significant investments aimed at supporting women in every aspect of our lives. Whether it's through increased funding for child care, extended paid parental leave provisions, bolstering women's safety initiatives or advocating for fairer wages, we have left no stone unturned in our quest to level the playing field for women across this great nation. By prioritising gender-sensitive policies, we are not only advancing the economic interests of women but also fostering a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
To take an example: Labor's cost-of-living tax cuts policy will put more money back into the pockets of 90 per cent of taxpaying women. Further, we are forging ahead with the development of a comprehensive national strategy to achieve gender equality. This strategy will serve as a road map—a blueprint for building a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and succeed unrestricted by the constraints of gender bias and discrimination.
In closing, let me leave you with some sobering statistics. While Australia has made strides in recent years, we still have much ground to cover, with a national gender pay gap of 13 per cent. Women continue to earn $252.30 less per week than their male counterparts. These disparities are not just numbers; they represent the lived experiences of millions of women. It is truly our duty to ensure that they are afforded the same opportunities, rights and dignity as their male counterparts.
I have met a lot of great women here and seeing the diversity in parliament gives me the opportunity to go out to my community and point to our example. I look forward to attending many events in my electorate, especially all the breakfasts and lunches! I'm looking forward to all that. To all the women members of parliament, all the women working in this building, all the women who live in my community of Holt, all Victorian women and women across this great nation I say happy International Women's Day!
]]>But we know that job creation alone is not enough. We also need to ensure that workers are treated fairly and have access to secure employment. That's why the closing loopholes legislation, championed by the Albanese Labor government, represents a landmark achievement. We have closed loopholes that enabled the undercutting of wages through dodgy labour hire practices to ensure the same pay for the same job. We have criminalised wage theft to ensure that a bad employer can never steal from the wages of their employees. We have strengthened protections for casual and gig economy workers to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and have access to secure employment.
But our commitment to supporting working Australians goes even further. Our plan to support workers addresses a range of issues, recognising the varied nature of the challenges facing Australian families. We understand that addressing the cost-of-living crisis requires multiple approaches. Our cost-of-living tax cuts are a vital component of our plan. These tax cuts ensure that every single Australian worker receives a fair share of relief, with particular attention to those on lower incomes. In Holt, families are set to benefit significantly, with the average tax cut amounting to $1,321—substantial support for households grappling with the rising living expenses. Whether you're in Clyde, Cranbourne, Hampton Park, Narre Warren South or Tooradin, with Labor's plan, all taxpayers will now get a tax cut. Under Labor's plan, 90 per cent of taxpayers in my electorate of Holt will get a bigger tax cut.
Beyond tax relief, our 10-point plan includes electricity bill relief, cheaper child care, expanded Medicare bulk billing, cheaper medicines, increased income support payments, free TAFE, more affordable homes and expanded paid parental leave. These measures are designed to provide support where it's needed the most, ensuring that working Australians have the resources they need to thrive. Moreover, we are investing in essential services like health care and education, which are vital for the wellbeing of communities in growing areas like my electorate of Holt. From building more affordable housing to expanding paid parental leave, our plan is focused on improving the lives of working families.
The Labor Party's commitment to working Australians is unwavering. We understand the challenges facing families in Holt and beyond, and we are dedicated to delivering meaningful support to improve their lives. From tax relief to job creation, and from wage growth to worker protection, our vision for a fairer and more prosperous Australia is clear. Together, we can build a future where every Australian has the opportunity to thrive and to achieve their aspiration so no-one in this country is left behind.
The House transcript was published up to 20:00 . The remainder of the transcript will be published progressively as it is completed.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER ( Mrs Andrews ) took the chair at 15:59.
]]>In my electorate of Holt, like many electorates in the outer suburbs, families are grappling with the relentless rise in essential expenses, such as housing, child care, health care and utilities. These pressures weigh heavily on the shoulders of everyday Australians, straining their budgets and limiting their opportunities for financial security and prosperity. This is why I am proud to be a part of a government with a plan—a plan to tackle this cost-of-living crisis. At the heart of this plan lies the implementation of cost-of-living tax cuts aimed at providing immediate relief to hardworking Australians, especially in those electorates like Holt and Dunkley.
Under our plan every single Australian taxpayer will receive a tax cut, regardless of their income—11.5 million Australians will receive a bigger tax cut than under the Liberals' plan. This tax cut, one that the coalition had to be dragged to support, will provide more relief to 90 per cent of Australians, especially those earning under $45,000 a year. How can the Liberals lecture us on priorities while the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is running around on national TV stating that her party will unwind tax cuts for every taxpayer? I guess the people who stack the shelves at Woolies, like my former colleagues, or those who cook our Friday night takeaway are not a priority for the Liberal Party.
In Holt, where families are feeling the pinch of skyrocketing living expenses, these tax cuts will make a tangible difference. For instance, a minimum wage worker on $45,000 a year will be $800 better off under Labor's plan. These tax cuts will extend to truck drivers, IT workers, nurses and teachers, like my sister-in-law Christine. With the average tax cut for residents of Holt being a substantial $1,321, these changes will bring significant relief to families.
Our priorities go beyond just tax cuts. Labor's 10-point plan includes a range of initiatives aimed at tackling the root causes of the cost-of-living crisis. This is a $23 billion package to support working families. This package includes our priority for energy relief, a priority the Liberals have voted against. This includes our priority for cheaper medicines, again a priority the Liberals voted against. This includes our priority to get wages moving again, a priority the Liberal Party consistently votes against. When it comes to the cost of living, the Liberals always say no.
We understand that true prosperity requires a holistic plan that addresses the cost-of-living pressures. This is why our plan encompasses measures to create jobs and boost wages. Getting people into work and giving them a pay rise is the No. 1 way to tackle the cost of living for families. Over 650,000 new jobs have been created since Labor came into government and, last year, Labor delivered the highest annual wage growth since 2009. We have got wages moving again for the first time since 2018. After a decade of Liberal policies that suppressed wages and wanted people to work longer for less, Labor's priority is very clear. We are committed to fighting tirelessly for policies that put the interests of working families in electorates like Holt and Dunkley first.
]]>The statistics of its prevalence in our country are sobering. One in seven Australian women will face a breast cancer diagnosis by the age of 85. In 2022 alone, 20,640 Australians received this devastating news. I commend the vital work of organisations like the McGrath Foundation, which tirelessly supports those affected by breast cancer.
I extend my gratitude to the Cranbourne Cricket Club for hosting this remarkable fundraiser every year. Let us honour the memories of those we have lost to breast cancer by continuing to support initiatives that offer hope, comfort and assistance to all those affected. I look forward to attending pink stumps day again next year.
]]>This bill implements the Labor government's cost-of-living tax cut for middle Australia. It means every single Australian taxpayer will now get a tax cut, no matter their income. It means that 90 per cent of taxpayers in my electorate of Holt will get a bigger tax cut than they would have under the coalition. This means more tax relief for more workers to help with cost-of-living increases.
When the Prime Minister spoke during question time last week, his words echoed the sentiments of every resident in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. They reminded us of the fundamental truth that aspiration knows no bounds. They remind us that the concept of aspiration is not confined to a select few who have enjoyed privilege or come from an elite background. Instead, it is evident in every corner of our nation, touching the lives of every hardworking individual.
As I engage with my constituents from all walks of life in Holt, I see the profound aspirations that drive each and every one of them. From fast-food workers to IT professionals, from the dedicated staff at Woolworths to the migrants who have journeyed to our shores through our skilled migration programs, the desire for a better future resonates deeply within the hearts of every Australian. I understand this aspiration better than many because this is also the story of my family, who migrated to Australia to ensure a better life for their children. Under a Labor government, these aspirations are not only acknowledged but championed. We understand that the foundation of a fairer and more prosperous society lies in ensuring that every individual has the support they need to pursue their dreams regardless of their current income. That's why our government is committed to implementing policies that empower middle Australia and to providing them with the support they need to thrive.
Our plan will give all 13.6 million taxpayers a tax cut. It will mean that, compared to Scott Morrison's plan from five years ago, 2.9 million more people will receive a tax cut. It will mean 11.5 million taxpayers will receive a bigger tax cut than under the coalition. The biggest beneficiaries of these tax cuts will be the nurses, teachers and truckies. When I went to vote in my first election, I asked my mum who I should vote for. She told me that I should vote for Kevin Rudd because the Labor Party is the party that represents working-class Australia. Only the Labor Party stands up for Australians who are doing it tough, and this legislation is proof of that.
From 1 July this year, the Albanese Labor government will reduce the 19 per cent tax rate to 16 per cent. The decrease in the 19 per cent tax rate will ensure that minimum-wage and part-time workers, like many of our nation's youth, will be better off. These workers, of whom I used to be one, received zero support under the coalition's plan. This is the difference between Labor and the coalition. The Labor Party is here to support everyone. The coalition is only here to support those in the top percentile of society. On top of this, the government will also increase the threshold for the Medicare levy by 7.1 per cent. These changes will support low-income households, as households with taxable incomes below $32,500 will not be liable for the full Medicare levy. These changes will give back money to an estimated 1.2 million low-income earners, in addition to the lower tax rate.
From 1 July this year, the Albanese Labor government will also reduce the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent, increase the threshold above which the 37 per cent tax rate applies from $122,000 to $135,000 and increase the threshold above which the 45 per cent tax rate applies from $180,000 to $190,000. The increase in threshold above which the 37 per cent and 45 per cent tax rates apply will ensure that the middle-income earners in my electorate of Holt will receive a fairer share of tax relief. In Holt, the average tax cut will amount to a substantial $1,321 a year, offering significant relief to families grappling with the rising cost of living. A minimum wage worker on $45,000 will save $800 under Labor's plan. A nurse or a primary school teacher on $76,000 a year will save $1,600. The average truck driver on $80,000 a year will save nearly $1,700. A welder who earns $110,000 will save nearly $2,500. Those who earn $180,000 and above will still get a tax cut. In fact, those who earn over $180,000 will receive the biggest tax cut of all, 4½ thousand dollars.
By putting more money back into the pockets of hardworking families, Labor is empowering them to better navigate the challenges they face daily. The decision to amend the old stage 3 tax cuts was not taken lightly by the government. We understood the political sensitivity and the potential challenges involved in altering tax legislation that had been in place for five years. However, we recognised the significant changes in the economic landscape since then, including the once-in-a-century pandemic, persistent inflation, higher interest rates and global uncertainty. These factors have placed greater pressure on the cost of living for individuals and families across the nation.
Over the summer as I engaged with my community in Holt it became increasingly evident that more comprehensive cost-of-living relief was necessary. As responsible managers of the economy, Labor understands the importance of adapting economic policy to changing circumstances. The tax changes outlined in this bill reflect Labor's commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Australians. In the words of ANU Associate Professor Ben Phillips, 'These are the right measures to implement driven by reasons and timed appropriately to provide relief when it is most needed.'
However, it is important to acknowledge the tax cuts alone are not enough to address the root causes of the cost-of-living crisis. In Melbourne's outer south-east, where families are grappling with steep housing costs, soaring energy bills and rising childcare expenses, a holistic approach is needed to tackle these issues. The Albanese Labor government understands the daily struggles faced by families in Holt and across the nation. That's why our comprehensive approach goes beyond mere tax relief.
We have delivered electricity bill relief, with $1.5 billion in power savings to Australian households. We are delivering cheaper child care, benefiting 1.2 million families. We have delivered the largest increase in rent assistance and income support payments in history. We have strengthened the beating heart of Medicare by tripling the bulk-billing incentive. We have delivered cheaper medicines, with the 60-day prescriptions saving patients $1.6 billion over the next four years. We are delivering 300,000 fee-free TAFE positions, upskilling Australians in the jobs of the future. We are investing over $10 billion to build more affordable homes, we are expanding paid parental leave to 26 weeks and we are creating jobs and getting wages moving again after a decade of stagnation.
While these tax cuts will undoubtably provide much needed financial breathing room for hardworking Australians, we recognise that they are just one piece of the puzzle. That's why Labor is committed to investing over $23 billion in a range of initiatives to ease the burden on working families. From investing in affordable housing and renewable energy and providing greater support for child care and education, we are taking decisive action to address the underlining factors driving the cost-of-living crisis.
In Holt and across the nation, working people can rest assured that we will be better off under a Labor government. We will continue to fight tirelessly to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations and achieve their full potential, because in Australia aspiration belongs to every single person, and it is our duty to ensure that it remains within reach for all. Whether it's a part-time worker striving for financial security or a supermarket worker dreaming of home ownership, only the Labor Party's policies are designed to uplift and empower all Australians. We understand that true prosperity is more than just financial gain. It's about having the opportunity to build a better life for oneself and one's family. That's the promise we make to the people of Holt and to all Australians. Under a Labor government, everyone will be better off.
In closing, I would like to express my gratitude to Treasurer Jim Chalmers for his tireless work on this bill. His dedication to the welfare and prosperity of all Australians is evident in the thoughtful measures outlined within this legislation. I commend this bill to the House, confident that it represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to create a fairer and more equitable society for all.
]]>I visited Marysville with my family a few weeks after the bushfires had subsided to support the small businesses who were doing it tough in the aftermath. Their perseverance to make do and support their communities, even after such a disaster, will never be forgotten.
Finally, we remember the firefighters, volunteers and everyday heroes who courageously battled the flames, saving countless lives while they risked their own. I want to conclude by extending my gratitude to the fire service staff and volunteers in Holt—namely those at FRV Fire Station 92, Hampton Park, Narre Warren, Clyde, Devon Meadows, Tooradin and Warneet-Blind Bight Fire Brigade CFA.
]]>The sense of unity and pride at this event was just amazing. It was evident that the festival served as a symbol of Tamil identity in Victoria and, indeed, across the world, showcasing rich traditions and values that have been passed down for generations. I was deeply honoured to be a part of this grand celebration and to have the opportunity to engage with members of the Tamil community, many of whom live in my electorate of Holt. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organisers, particularly Casey Tamil Manram for their hard work and dedication, and to all the volunteers as well. I look forward to continuing to support and celebrate the rich diversity of our community in the years to come.
]]>I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the emergency services who responded to the incident and who work tirelessly every day. The memories of Jagjeet, Suhani, Kriti and Reema will forever remain in our hearts, and their legacies will endure through the love and unity of our community. May their souls rest in eternal peace.
]]>The theme for this year's International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was: 'UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls'. This is not just a call to action but a reminder that each of us bears a responsibility to contribute to the creation of a world that is free from the shackles of violence towards women.
It is imperative to recognise that family and domestic violence do not discriminate. They transcend age, cultural background, occupation, education level, income bracket and location. This is not someone else's problem; it is an issue that touches us all, whether directly or indirectly. We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that, on average, every 14 days a woman loses her life to domestic violence in our country. Behind each tragic incident are shattered families, grieving communities and a society that must grapple with the uncomfortable truth that we have not done enough.
Last month's International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was a symbolic occasion. It was a stark reminder of our duty as representatives of the people. We must strive to ensure that every Australian, regardless of gender, can live a life free from violence. This fundamental human right must be at the core of our legislative policy endeavours.
The Albanese government, in collaboration with state and territory governments, has embarked on a comprehensive and ambitious journey with the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. This plan not only sets the goal to end violence within one generation but also focuses on prevention, early intervention, appropriate response and, critically, the support and healing of victims-survivors.
We have committed substantial resources, $2.3 billion to be precise, to prioritise women's safety. This includes funding for prevention initiatives and education programs and support for organisations such as Our Watch, which plays a vital role in primary prevention efforts. One of my first votes in this chamber was for legislation that enshrined 10 paid days of family and domestic violence leave for all employees, including casuals. This landmark initiative aims to foster an environment where victims can access the support they need without fear of jeopardising their employment.
Our efforts to fix the escaping violence payment, to secure funds for frontline services and to build a robust frontline workforce are important steps, yet we must recognise that these are not just the end but, rather, the beginning of a long journey towards eradicating the deeply rooted issue of violence against women. It is a journey that requires collaboration across party lines within communities and among individuals. We must foster a culture where silence is replaced by open conversation, where victim blaming is replaced by empathy and where the notion that violence is inevitable becomes a relic of the past.
Let us stand united in our commitment to building a safer Australia across this festive season so that it may be a joyous time for everyone. Have a merry and safe Christmas everyone.
Question agreed to.
]]>I had the privilege of sitting next to Peta in parliament, witnessing firsthand her commitment to the people of Dunkley and her tireless efforts to bring about positive change. It is hard to sit here now without her by my side. Peta's passion for justice and equality was evident in every action she took, both within the political arena and in her personal life. During my early days in the House, Peta offered me invaluable advice, guidance and a warm welcome, which continued to be a source of inspiration throughout my tenure. She mentored me and pulled my head in when I was causing a bit of ruckus in the House—most question times, actually.
Peta's battle with cancer served as a reminder of the challenges faced by so many Australians. Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer, affecting countless lives across our nation. The statistics are sobering, with one in seven Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85. Metastatic breast cancer in particular presents unique challenges. Peta was a fierce advocate for greater awareness and support for those living with this treatable but not curable form of disease. In her advocacy work, Peta recognised that visibility is crucial for addressing healthcare needs adequately. Her dedication to this cause culminated in the support of Breast Cancer Network Australia's report Time to count people with metastatic breast cancer: a way forward. The report was a roadmap for reporting the vital data that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.
Peta's commitment to her community remained unwavering, even during her most challenging days. She worked tirelessly until the very last day, exemplifying her belief that service to our nation is the highest calling. Her determination was not only a testament to her character but an inspiration to all who knew her. Peta was not just a politician; she was a compassionate human being who faced adversity with unparalleled courage and grace. Her advocacy transcends personal battles, aiming to improve the lives of countless Australians facing similar challenges. Her legacy will endure through the positive changes she fought for, and her impact on the lives of those she served will be felt for generations to come. Even in her final moments, Peta retained her dignity, strength and trademark sense of humour. She lived and died on her terms, never wanting to be a burden, and always faced adversity with unparalleled courage. Peta's life was a testament to the power of hope, resilience and an unwavering commitment to justice.
As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the incredible legacy she leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing this extraordinary woman that sat next to me. May Peta Murphy rest in peace, knowing that her spirit will continue to inspire us all. God bless you. God bless us all. May her memory be a guiding light in our collective journey toward a more compassionate and just society. Rest in peace, my friend. It was so good to see you last Tuesday. Your last words to me I couldn't write in this speech. As she walked up, I grabbed her hand and I said, 'I'll see you soon,' and she said, 'You will not see me soon.' You will be really missed, Peta Murphy. Rest in peace.
]]>May this Christmas bring you peace, joy and an abundance of love—and lots of gifts! I would like to wish everyone in Holt and across Australia a happy, safe and wonderful Christmas. God bless you all.
]]>Guru Nanak Ji's message transcended the economic and social boundaries, resonating deeply within the hearts of countless individuals seeking spiritual guidance and solace. Guru Nanak's profound wisdom and unwavering commitment to human welfare continue to inspire generations. His core teachings—Naam Ja-po, or contemplating God's name, Kirat Ka-ro, or working diligently, and Vaand Chha-ko, or sharing with others—serve as guiding principles for righteous living and spiritual enlightenment.
By embracing these principles, individuals can navigate—
A division having been called in the House of Representatives—
Sitting suspended from 16:08 to 16:29
By embracing these principles, individuals can navigate the complexities of life with integrity, compassion and a deep sense of purpose.
Yesterday I had the privilege of celebrating Guru Nanak Ji's birth anniversary at Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar, a significant Sikh temple that stands as a beacon of faith and unity in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs. As we celebrated Guru Nanak Gurpurab, we reflected on his profound wisdom and wished to embody his teachings in our own lives.
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