Mary Doyle's recent appearances (OpenAustralia.org)
Economy | Matters of Public Importance | House debates
Let me begin by saying that the only thing reckless in this debate is the sheer nerve, the utter gall, of members of the Liberal Party standing up to lecture anyone on the economic responsibility...
Let me begin by saying that the only thing reckless in this debate is the sheer nerve, the utter gall, of members of the Liberal Party standing up to lecture anyone on the economic responsibility of the cost of living, particularly when their record left Australian families and small businesses worse off. In the 47th parliament, the Liberal Party along with their then partners, now ex-partners, the National Party made it their mission to block every single cost-of-living measure introduced by this government, measures that would have supported households and the 2.6 million small businesses that employ nearly 40 per cent of the workforce. That was not responsible or principled; that was reckless. Had our cost-of-living-relief measures not passed, that is what would have hurt Australian families and the small businesses that rely on their spending. After nine long years of cuts, chaos and neglect, those opposite left behind a system that was fundamentally broken, where inflation was rising, wages were going backwards, productivity was stagnant and essential services—which small businesses depend upon—were hollowed out. That is their legacy. However, this second-term Albanese Labor government has chosen a very different path—one grounded in responsibility, fairness and targeted relief for working people and the small businesses that form the backbone of our economy. The measures we have passed through this place are not reckless; they are deliberate. They have been thought through and they are changing lives in households, shopfronts and workplaces right across Australia. Yesterday, the independent Reserve Bank monetary policy board increased the cash rate by 25 basis points. We understand this will come as difficult news for millions of Australians with a mortgage and the pressure this puts on families and small-business owners juggling repayments, rent and cash flow. While the decision was widely expected, that doesn't make it any easier. That is why we continue to roll out responsible cost-of-living relief, including a further tax cut later this year and another one next year—tax cuts that benefit 1½ million sole traders and which put real money back into the small businesses that power local economies. This stands in stark contrast to those opposite, who went to the last election promising higher taxes and have opposed every measure designed to support small-business confidence and consumer demand. In government, those opposite shamefully suppressed wages. They in fact made it a cunning design of their economic plan, undermining the spending power of customers that small businesses rely on to survive. Since coming to office, our Labor government has delivered pay rises for minimum and award wage workers, lifting annual incomes by more than $9,000. What happens when wages increase? People spend a bit more. This means local economies are strengthened. All kinds of small businesses like restaurants, cafes, gift shops, shoe stores—my favourite!—and bakeries benefit. We expanded paid parental leave to 24 weeks and ensured superannuation is paid on government funded parental leave, recognising that small businesses benefit when workplaces are fair, modern and able to retain skilled staff. We delivered $300 energy bill relief in financial year 2024-25 and $150 off power bills in the financial year to December 2025 for every household and around one million small businesses, while investing in long-term cost reduction—including 30 per cent off home batteries. That is structural reform that helps small businesses manage costs and to plan for the future. We made the biggest-ever investment in Medicare since its creation, easing pressure on small-business owners, who know that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce. We opened Medicare urgent care clinics, including one in my electorate, in Bayswater, which is very popular. Right across the country we opened these Medicare urgent care clinics, with more than two million Australians already receiving free urgent care. We cut student debt by 20 per cent. We have done so much to help Australian households and small businesses; I could go on, but I don't have a lot more time. It is targeted, and it is responsible and it is certainly not the kind of spending you could call 'reckless'.
Australia Day Honours and Awards | Statements by Members | House debates
I'd like to congratulate three of Aston's finest who received the Medal of the Order of Australia last week as part of the Australia Day 2026 honours list. Mrs Elizabeth Aylett OAM received the...
I'd like to congratulate three of Aston's finest who received the Medal of the Order of Australia last week as part of the Australia Day 2026 honours list. Mrs Elizabeth Aylett OAM received the award for her service to netball. Elizabeth has been a netball player since 1952 and an umpire since 1964. Elizabeth is the founder of the White Horse Netball Association, and went on to become a life member of the association in 1981. Following her outstanding contribution to netball, the Lizzie Aylett Umpires Award was established in 2016. Mrs Rita Brown received the OAM for her service to community health. Rita has been the Australian Borderline Personality Disorder Foundation President and Chair since 2018, and foundation director since 2013. Rita is additionally a member of the International Society for the Study of Personality Disorders, a member of the Lived Experience Advisory Committee, and is the Associate Director of the Lived Experience Workforce. Mr John McGrath received the OAM for his service to surf lifesaving and to the community. From 2011 to 2020, John was the Director of Communications at Far South Coast Branch Surf Life Saving New South Wales. In 2014, John became the deputy president of the surf life saving club and presided over this role for three years. John has been a member of the surf life saving community since 1964 and has played a major role in the communities in which he has served. I thank them all for their contribution to Aston and also our nation. Thank you.
Valedictory | Statements | House debates
As 2025 draws to a close, I reflect on what a rollercoaster of a year it was—a huge federal election campaign in the first half, an amazing win and many things delivered in the second half...
As 2025 draws to a close, I reflect on what a rollercoaster of a year it was—a huge federal election campaign in the first half, an amazing win and many things delivered in the second half of 2025 by this second term Albanese Labor government. I want to take this opportunity to thank the good people of Aston for re-electing me as their federal member on 3 May. It is such an incredible honour to represent you here in this place, and I assure you I do not take that privilege for granted. Our government has spent the past year working to strengthen communities and make everyday life a little easier by providing effective cost-of-living relief. For young people, this year has brought meaningful improvements in education and financial security. Our 20 per cent reduction to student debt has helped millions of Australians, including 21,439 people in Aston, with a HECS debt. This change has eased financial pressure for locals studying at nearby tertiary institutions or those beginning professional careers. Instead of entering the workforce burdened by debt, students and graduates now have a little breathing room, whether they are pursuing additional study, saving for a home or planning the next steps in their lives. For those in Aston aspiring to own their first home, policy changes this year have also had a real impact. With the introduction of the five per cent deposit scheme for first home buyers, more residents in suburbs like Bayswater, Rowville, Wantirna, Knoxfield and Scoresby can now see a clearer path to entering the housing market. For many local families, this has shortened the timeline for saving for a deposit, making what was once a distant dream of homeownership a more achievable goal. Additionally, Australia's healthcare system has seen substantial strengthening, with the single biggest investment in Medicare since its establishment. The expansion of urgent care clinics nationally, alongside increased bulk-billing for GP visits, has ensured that Australians can access timely and affordable care. In the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, where families rely on a mix of local clinics and nearby hospitals, these improvements have contributed to better access to essential health services. More bulk-billed GP appointments mean fewer barriers for parents bringing children to the doctor, older residents seeking routine care and individuals managing ongoing health needs. These measures contribute to a more accessible and affordable healthcare environment for the entire community. Education and vocational training have continued to support opportunities and skills development across electorates like Aston. The ongoing expansion of free TAFE has opened doors for people looking to retrain, upskill or pursue new career pathways. Local students and workers have benefited from easier access to courses that align with key industries in the outer eastern suburbs, helping strengthen both their employment prospects and their region's economic resilience. Workers in Aston have also seen practical improvements to their financial security through the introduction of payday super, which ensures that superannuation is paid at the same time as wages. This change has been particularly meaningful for residents in casual, part-time or shift based roles. This year the Albanese Labor government has additionally committed to ensuring that working parents who experience the unimaginable tragedy of stillbirth or early infant death can continue to access the employer paid parental leave to which they are entitled. The Fair Work Amendment (Baby Priya's) Bill 2025, which passed the parliament, makes that possible where it is consistent with an employee's terms and conditions of employment. At a time when cost-of-living pressures have been front of mind for families and small businesses, energy bill relief and tax changes have provided further support. Households across the Aston electorate, many of which have felt cost-of-living pressures, have benefited from additional assistance to manage utility bills, while tax adjustments have helped ensure that workers can earn more and keep more of what they earn. These measures offer both immediate relief and long-term financial stability. Furthermore, from 10 December 2025, the Albanese government's world-leading action to ban social media for under-16's will come into effect. The restrictions will aim to protect young Australians from pressures and risks that users can be exposed to while logged in to social media accounts. As we reflect on the year it becomes clear that the broader national reforms delivered have had real, tangible effects on the Australian people. From easing the burden of student debt to making homeownership more accessible and from strengthening Medicare to broadening education opportunities and supporting household budgets, these changes collectively contribute to the wellbeing and stability of families across my electorate. I want to wish all the people of my electorate all the very best over the holiday season. Stay safe when out driving. For those of you who celebrate it, have a very merry Christmas, and to all: have a happy new year in 2026.
Mental Health Month | Statements on Significant Matters | House debates
The month of October was Mental Health Month, and the Albanese Labor government is delivering more mental health services in the heart of communities right across the country. As part of our...
The month of October was Mental Health Month, and the Albanese Labor government is delivering more mental health services in the heart of communities right across the country. As part of our government's plan to strengthen Medicare, we made an historic $1.1 billion commitment at this year's election to deliver new and expanded mental health services that support Australians across every stage of life. As a government, we are establishing 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres offering free, walk in care from multidisciplinary teams. Our government is also creating 20 perinatal mental health centres to deliver tailored support for new and expecting parents and 17 Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs to provide children and their families with the behavioural, social, emotional and wellbeing support they need. For young people aged 12 to 25, 203 headspace services across the country continue to play a vital role in supporting their mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, as part of the Albanese Labor government's recent election commitment, headspace Knox in my electorate of Aston will be uplifted to a headspace Plus, demonstrating the deep understanding this government has regarding the growing need and complexity of youth mental health. Headspace Knox offers young people in my community aged 12 to 25 a welcoming environment where they can access confidential and free mental health support, health advice and general information. From early next year, we will also roll out a new national early intervention service, providing free mental health phone and online support from trained professionals. This service is expected to reach more than 150,000 Australians every year, helping people access care early before their challenges become a crisis. By expanding access to free public mental health services that meet different levels of need, our initiatives will relieve pressure on subsidised private psychology services, thus making it easier for people to get the right care when and where they need it. Furthermore, our government is investing in the future of the mental health workforce with more than 4,000 psychology scholarships, internships and training places to ensure we have the skilled professionals required to deliver these services across the nation. Importantly, we are recognising the invaluable contributions of people with lived experiences. We are professionalising the peer workforce, establishing a new peer workforce association next year and conducting a national census to better understand and strengthen this vital part of our mental health system. On a personal note, I have my own lived experience of requiring mental health support, back in November 2001, when my firstborn baby boy, Clancy, was around four months old. I had not been feeling myself for some time but couldn't figure out why. My new little bub, Clancy, was a dream. He slept soundly. He wasn't much of a crier. He breastfed beautifully and I bonded so strongly with him. On that level, we were doing very well as new mum and bub. But I couldn't sleep. My mind was racing. I was no longer interested in socialising or doing all the things that used to bring me joy. On one of my visits to the maternal child health nurse in my local area, she gently asked me some questions. How was I feeling? Was I getting out to see friends and family and so on? Then she got me to fill out a questionnaire, and, as it turned out, I was subsequently diagnosed with post-natal depression. It had never occurred to me during those first few months of motherhood. In my naivety, I figured only mums with babies who didn't sleep or who cried all the time got post-natal depression. But PND can happen to any mum. It can happen to new mums or it can strike you when you've had your second baby or any other baby after that. I was very fortunate to have had the mental health support I needed at that time and was able to get through that challenging time in my life. Every Australian deserves access to compassionate, quality mental health care no matter where they live, their background or their circumstances. We know that mental health challenges can affect anyone at any stage of life, just as they affected me 24 years ago. These investments are about meeting people where they are, providing support before crisis strikes and ensuring that no-one faces their struggles alone. Behind every policy and every program is a person, be they a parent, a child, a young person, a friend or a neighbour who deserves to be heard, supported and valued. When someone reaches out for help, they are showing courage, not weakness. Our responsibility is to meet that courage with care, to replace stigma with understanding and to ensure that hope is never out of reach. Let us be clear that this is not just about services or statistics. It is about building a culture of compassion. It is about communities that lift each other up, workplaces that nurture wellbeing and schools that teach our children that it is okay to ask for help. It is about ensuring that mental health care is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every Australian. We know that when mental health is supported, everything else follows. Families grow stronger, communities become safer and our economy thrives because people can reach their potential. Mental wellbeing is not just a health issue; it is a foundation for opportunity, equality and national prosperity. This government understands that when we invest in people's minds and hearts, we invest in the future of our country. This is what leadership looks like: not turning away from hard conversations, but embracing them with honesty and hope. It is about standing beside every Australian saying: 'You matter. Your life matters, and help is available.' Together we are rewriting the story of mental health in this country to one of connection, care and courage. As we expand this network of free, high-quality services, Australians can turn to the Medicare mental health phone line or visit the Medicare Mental Health website to find the service that's right for them. This is what it means to govern with empathy, with purpose and with a commitment to the wellbeing of every Australian, because when we invest in mental health, we invest in the strength, the resilience and the humanity of our nation. Hope is the heartbeat of a healthy society. Through these investments we are saying to every Australian: 'You are not alone. Your story matters and your future is worth fighting for.'
Elm St Mission | Statements by Members | House debates
On the weekend, I had the honour of attending an event in Bayswater to celebrate the sixth birthday of the Elm St Mission. This celebration brought together residents, volunteers and supporters...
On the weekend, I had the honour of attending an event in Bayswater to celebrate the sixth birthday of the Elm St Mission. This celebration brought together residents, volunteers and supporters to celebrate the program's achievement and raise vital funds for a new defibrillator and first aid equipment. Elm St Mission was founded with a clear and compassionate purpose to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for individuals experiencing mental health challenges or social isolation. In only six years, it has grown into far more than a community service. It has become a refuge, a gathering place and, for many in my community, a lifeline. The volunteer, staff and supporters who sustain Elm St Mission embody the spirit of service that strengthens our social fabric. I would particularly like to acknowledge Ethne, Ray, Marj, John and Leo for their unwavering commitment to support some of our most vulnerable residents. The work of all involved in the Elm St Mission is truly inspiring, and our community is kinder, stronger and more connected because of their work. I wish Elm St Mission many more years of growth, impact and compassion, and I commend them for the hope and support they continue to offer to all who need it most.
Austin, Ben | Constituency Statements | House debates
Last week my community and the cricket community across the country learnt of the devastating news of a tragic accident that occurred at a cricket training session in Ferntree Gully. This...
Last week my community and the cricket community across the country learnt of the devastating news of a tragic accident that occurred at a cricket training session in Ferntree Gully. This heartbreaking incident led to the death of 17-year-old Ben Austin. Ben was an adored son to Jace and Tracey, a deeply loved brother to Cooper and Zach, and a shining light in the lives of his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Young Ben loved his sport more than anything. He was an active and much loved member of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, the Mulgrave Cricket Club and the Eildon Park Cricket Club. Ben also represented his region with pride, captaining the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association to a premiership. Ben was an extremely talented bowler and batter, respected by team mates, coaches and opponents alike. His love for the game was matched only by his humility, leadership and kindness. In March this year, Ben received the Brian Wright Trophy, an award given to the junior player who shows the correct attitude and dedication to the game. It was a fitting recognition of the character and commitment that defined him both on and off the field. A division having been called in the House of Representatives— Sitting suspended from 11:16 to 11:26 In the days following this tragedy, the Ferntree Gully community and the wider cricket family united in an extraordinary demonstration of compassion and strength. Last Saturday morning, I visited Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully, where I laid some flowers and placed a small cricket bat with a message alongside the incredible array of tributes already there. I also spoke with Lee Thompson, Ferntree Gully Cricket Club president, and asked that he please send my sincere condolences to Ben's family and also to his teammate, who must be hurting terribly as well. What began as unimaginable heartbreak quickly revealed the depth of kindness and solidarity that exists within our community. Clubs across the region came together to honour Ben's memory. Players wore black armbands, held moments of silence before matches and gathered to support one another both on and off the field. Social media became a space of warmth and remembrance filled with stories celebrating Ben's sportsmanship, humour and generous spirit. A campaign called #batsoutforben went viral, with people from every corner of the cricketing world placing bats on their doorsteps as a symbol of respect. Through this tragedy, our community's compassion has shone brighter than ever. The response reflects not only the love people had for Ben but also the enduring strength of a community that stands shoulder to shoulder in times of grief—a community bound by empathy, respect and the kindest of hearts. Rest in peace, Ben.
Health Care | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government strengthening Medicare by investing in bulk-billing after a decade of cuts and neglect? Is this...
My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government strengthening Medicare by investing in bulk-billing after a decade of cuts and neglect? Is this investment reaching all corners of the country? What has been the response to these changes?
Climate Change | Statements by Members | House debates
On this side of the House, we know that taking strong action on climate change isn't just about protecting our environment; it's about securing our future and strengthening our economy. The...
On this side of the House, we know that taking strong action on climate change isn't just about protecting our environment; it's about securing our future and strengthening our economy. The science is clear: the climate is changing because of global emissions, and Australia is already feeling the effects. Droughts, bushfires and floods are events that are no longer warnings of the future but instead the reality of today. By reducing emissions now, we can limit the worst impacts of climate change while creating new industries, new technologies and good, secure jobs across the nation. Since coming to office, the Albanese Labor government has legislated our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050 and set an ambitious target to cut emissions by 62 to 70 per cent below 2005 levels by 2035. This is the next crucial step on our path to a cleaner, stronger economy. Our net zero plan outlines how we'll achieve a fair, orderly and efficient transition, a transition that grows the economy, reduces costs for households and businesses and ensures no Australian is left behind. Yet, while on this side of the House we are guided by science and ambition, those opposite are guided by denial and delay. Consumed by infighting and division, they offer Australians no credible path forward—just a net zero alternative to the leadership of this country.
Medicare | Statements by Members | House debates
Two weeks ago, the Minister for Health and Ageing announced that there had been over two million visits to Medicare urgent care clinics across the country. This means that over two million...
Two weeks ago, the Minister for Health and Ageing announced that there had been over two million visits to Medicare urgent care clinics across the country. This means that over two million Australians have been able to walk into one of these clinics and get the care they needed without paying one cent. From cuts and burns to sprains and infections, Australians are getting free health care closer to home when they need it. Since being elected, the Albanese Labor government has opened urgent care clinics right across the country, including the Bayswater urgent care clinic in my own electorate of Aston. And the good news is that there are even more of these clinics on the way. Also on the way, from 1 November, is a major boost in payments to general practices that bulk-bill every patient. Our investment will deliver an additional 18 million bulk-billed GP visits every year, nationwide, with nine out of 10 GP visits being bulk-billed by 2030. Australians know that, when it comes to investing in the health care of Australians, they can only trust a Labor government. On this side of the House, we know that, when it comes to getting quality health care close to home, all you need, or all you should need, is your Medicare card—not your credit card.
Youth Voice in Parliament | Statements by Members | House debates
Through Raise Our Voice Australia, it is now my honour to read out a speech from 14-year-old Reyhaan, an outstanding young leader in my electorate of Aston. Reyhaan wrote about education equity:...
Through Raise Our Voice Australia, it is now my honour to read out a speech from 14-year-old Reyhaan, an outstanding young leader in my electorate of Aston. Reyhaan wrote about education equity: Imagine two students. One has access to every learning resource—stable internet, tutoring, a quiet space to study. The other wants to succeed just as much but has none of those things. Which one do you think gets left behind? If we want a better tomorrow for young Australians, we must make education equity a priority today. It's not just about funding, it's about access, support, and fairness. We need stronger support systems in public schools, and targeted programs for students in rural, low-income, and multicultural communities. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't. As a young person on my local council's Youth Advisory Committee, I see how deeply young people care about their future. Hence, I'm asking the government to continue to partner with us, invest in schools, mental health services, digital infrastructure, and youth leadership. Let's also invest in sustainability and STEM … education so students are ready for jobs in clean energy, climate innovation, and the industries of tomorrow. That's how we create a smarter, fairer, and greener Australia, not just in one neighbourhood or state, but right across the country. Thank you, Reyhaan, for your advocacy and your excellent speech.
Vocational Education and Training | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Skills and Training. How are the Albanese Labor government ensuring Australians, particularly apprentices, can make the most of the opportunities in the clean...
My question is to the Minister for Skills and Training. How are the Albanese Labor government ensuring Australians, particularly apprentices, can make the most of the opportunities in the clean energy sector? Are they aware of any alternatives?
Manufacturing Industry | Statements by Members | House debates
In my electorate of Aston, we have many incredible manufacturing businesses. Last month, I had the honour of visiting one of them to see firsthand how they operate. Catten Industries are a family...
In my electorate of Aston, we have many incredible manufacturing businesses. Last month, I had the honour of visiting one of them to see firsthand how they operate. Catten Industries are a family run business located in Bayswater, and they specialise in advanced sheet metal fabrication and creative metal design. Catten Industries also employ many Aston locals, including young apprentices, to help them kickstart a career in manufacturing. This is an incredibly important thing for the future of many young Australians. Unlike those opposite, our government understand how important it is to keep Australian jobs in Australia. In our first term alone, the Albanese Labor government created more than 1 million jobs right here in Australia, which is the highest number of jobs created by a first-term government. To see the member for Canning take to social media recently, profoundly expressing his sadness over the loss of our car manufacturing industry, was, quite frankly, galling. Let's not forget that this was the same member of parliament who was part of a coalition government that waved our car manufacturing industry goodbye as it sailed offshore, costing thousands of Australians their jobs. Coalition hypocrisy knows no bounds. Australians know that whilst those opposite are preparing for their fifth leadership change in 10 years, this Labor government will be busy delivering a future made right here in Australia.
Health Care | Statements by Members | House debates
Since the election, held in May, the Albanese Labor government has been committed to delivering its promise on building Australia's future. During the 48th Parliament's first four weeks the...
Since the election, held in May, the Albanese Labor government has been committed to delivering its promise on building Australia's future. During the 48th Parliament's first four weeks the contrast could not be clearer. Liberals are fighting Liberals, Nationals are fighting Nationals and the Libs and Nats are having a crack at each other. Labor meanwhile is focused on building Australia's future by delivering on our election commitment to tackle the cost of living and to strengthen Medicare. One way we're helping Australians with the cost of living is through cheaper medicines. From 1 January 2026 the Albanese Labor government is expanding that further by making cheaper medicines even cheaper. Earlier this week we passed legislation that would mean a prescription on the PBS would cost Australians no more than $25. The last time PBS medicines cost no more than $25 was in 2004, 21 years ago. Back in 2004, I was mum to my toddler son, three-year-old Clancy, and had just become mum for the second time to my youngest, Lily. I was on maternity leave, sleep deprived with hair like a bird's nest, wearing tracky dacks day after day and loving every minute of it. Cheaper medicines are another key cost-of living relief measure delivered by this government that I know will help ease the financial stress of constituents in my community of Aston who rely on these vital medications every single day. While those opposite are busy infighting, we're busy out fighting for all Australians.
Tilly Aston Community Awards, Labor Government | Adjournment | House debates
Over the weekend I had the wonderful privilege of hosting the second annual Tilly Aston Community Awards. Held in Wantirna, at the Chinese Association of Victoria, these awards honoured...
Over the weekend I had the wonderful privilege of hosting the second annual Tilly Aston Community Awards. Held in Wantirna, at the Chinese Association of Victoria, these awards honoured outstanding contributions and achievements within the Aston community. Named after Tilly Aston, a renowned advocate for social causes, these awards aim to celebrate individuals and groups that have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership and positive impact in various aspects of community life. Among the recipients of the awards were tireless volunteers in schools, charitable and community organisations and sporting clubs who've been working selflessly for others in ways that bring the community together. It was fantastic to be able to honour and recognise so many outstanding members of the Aston community and highlight their work with others. Speaking of bringing community together, I want to now highlight a great club in my electorate: the Knox United Soccer Club. This club, which began in 1993 and has many passionate members, had needed a new forever home for a while. I have met and consulted with them several times since becoming the member for Aston, and their advocacy for upgrades to facilities and the new pavilion paid off. I was rapt to have announced, alongside the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon. Catherine King MP, in April that a re-elected Albanese Labor government would commit $1.8 million towards a brand new pavilion with two extra change rooms catering to the needs of the increasing number of girls and women who play soccer with this club. Knox United Soccer Club, as well as Knoxfield Knights Cricket Club, were very happy to have this $1.8 million commitment from our government alongside a $5.3 million commitment from Knox City Council, and they're now looking forward to seeing the pavilion's implementation. The Albanese Labor government are committed to women's sport, as I am too, and this investment in local sport will ensure that all members of the community are able to access these fantastic sporting clubs. Another Albanese Labor government commitment is the Home Guarantee Scheme, which 782 people in Aston have already accessed, and now the dream of owning a home is getting closer for more people. From 1 October this year, every Australian buying their first home will be able to do so with just a five per cent deposit and without the added cost of lenders mortgage insurance. This will ensure that more young people, families and hardworking people in Aston and, indeed, in Australia will have the chance to buy their first home sooner. For example, people living in Aston suburbs like Heathmont, Wantirna, Rowville and Knoxfield can purchase a $1 million home with a $50,000 deposit instead of a $200,000 deposit. In its first year of operating alone, this scheme will save homeowners approximately $1.5 billion in mortgage insurance costs. Wow! That's much-needed money that will stay in the pockets of household budgets, and it's bringing homeownership within reach so much sooner. This scheme is part of the Albanese government's $43 billion housing agenda, including a $10 billion commitment to deliver 100,000 homes exclusively for first home buyers. By delivering this reform, we are giving Australians a chance to step into their first home, build security for their families and invest in their futures. One more wonderful thing that the Albanese Labor government has done for the people of Australia and the good people of Aston is ensure that there is a Medicare urgent care clinic close by for those types of non-life-threatening injuries that still need to be seen to urgently. Recently, I received a lovely thankyou card from Jennifer from Wantirna South, who wrote to me about having to access the urgent care clinic in Bayswater when her husband needed it. She said in her card that she and her husband could not thank me enough for this service and that both the nurse and doctor there were very caring to both her husband and her. Of course, the urgent care clinic in Bayswater is bulk-billed as well, another fantastic aspect of this initiative that this government has achieved for the Australian people—real changes for which people like Jennifer and her husband are 100 per cent thankful and of which the benefits are obvious. I am very proud to be part of the Albanese Labor government that is delivering so many excellent policies that help people in my community and across Australia.
Address-in-Reply | Governor-General's Speech | House debates
I acknowledge that we meet on the traditional lands of the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples of this region, and I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging. The community of Aston,...
I acknowledge that we meet on the traditional lands of the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples of this region, and I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging. The community of Aston, which I represent, exists on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Bunurong peoples of the Kulin nation, the outer eastern suburbs of Naarm/Melbourne—a place I have called home for the past 37 years. I acknowledge and pay my respects to their peoples past, present and emerging. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land. I came to live in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne because three of my older sisters had done the same, so naturally, when it was my time to move out of home from my home town of Echuca, this is where I gravitated to, because connection to family is so important. I'm a proud mum to my 24-year-old son, Clancy, and my 21-year-old daughter, Lily, and a proud great-aunty to 19-year-old Jamilah, who came into my care five years ago at the age of 14, when her beautiful mum, my niece Melanie, tragically died from a brain aneurysm at the age of 42. This sudden devastation occurred in Tasmania not long after the start of the COVID lockdowns in 2020. Having Jamilah join Clancy, Lily and me in our home was something I never questioned, as she needed connection to her mother's family. Being re-elected as the member for Aston was an enormous honour—one that was so humbling. It was also akin to being welcomed back to a family of sorts—in fact, a couple of families. There is the family of the electorate of Aston, such a vibrant, multicultural community—one where I have gained all kinds of siblings and maybe a few different mums, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Then there's my family of colleagues in Canberra—the MPs and senators I have come to know and respect, and their staff members too. It's good to be back in the big house, and that's an enormous honour as well. Having run three elections in three years has been a lot of fun—well, some of the time. In 2022, when I ran against the former member for Aston, Alan Tudge, it was a steep learning curve for me as a first-time Labor candidate. At that time, in 2022, Aston had been Liberal since 1990, and my fledgling campaign for Aston was extremely grassroots. I shared a campaign office with two other first-time Labor candidates: the now current member for Deakin, Matt Gregg, as well as the Labor candidate for Menzies at that time. I funded a lot of that campaign myself, with financial help from the wonderful ASU, my union; local ALP branch members; my friends; and many true believers. I had zero delusions of grandeur, let alone any delusions of winning Aston in 2022, but I was amazed, as were many of my friends and colleagues, by a swing of 7.3 per cent to Labor in Aston in 2022—incredible. Having Labor win the whole federal election in 2022 was brilliant, and that was the best win overall. But I wondered about the victor in Aston that year and if he'd hang around for a full term. I wondered, in fact, why he'd ever run at all in Aston in that election, quite frankly. The former member for Aston's resignation from office followed nine months later, thus necessitating a by-election in April of 2023. I then had to gear up for an election campaign again, not even a year after the last one. This time was vastly different, as the nation's media was focused solely on this one federal electorate, once the safest Liberal seat in the whole country. How would it all turn out? 'Could you win, Mary? No pressure!' And, against all odds, that is what happened, the first time a sitting government had won an opposition seat in a by-election in 103 years—such an historic political event. It was a bruiser of a campaign; I'm not going to lie. There were sniping comments and barbs from my opponent's volunteers. Some of them were yelling right in my face as I was speaking to voters at prepoll, but they were nothing I couldn't handle. My volunteers and supporters were fantastic. They were always there for me at all of the street stalls and early morning train station visits, just as they were in 2022. They were handing out flyers for me on prepoll and by-election day too. I will never forget that rousing reception I walked into at Boronia Bowls Club on the night of the by-election. It was electric and so overwhelming. It is safe to say my face said it all that night. I had not expected to win at all, and I was so overwhelmed and excited as I made my victory speech in front of all the nation's media and the crowd at the Boronia Bowls Club. To go through another federal election campaign as the incumbent this time was a totally different experience again—another campaign, another Liberal opponent. This one was an entirely different beast—I'm talking about the campaign, not my opponent, of course. The opposition had chosen their candidate well ahead of time, and he'd been out and about very early. He and his people were flagrantly telling story after ludicrous story about me personally, about our government and about his own past, including exactly where he was from—that is, born and raised—and the location of the school where he was a 'local teacher'. He even changed his first name to try and hide certain facts about himself as the failed Liberal candidate for Bruce in 2013 and the failed Liberal candidate for Holt in 2007. On day 1 of prepoll 2025, when we were at a booth, my two volunteers and I noticed a stark difference in both the by-election and 2022 election prepoll kick-offs. The number of Liberal Party volunteers not only outnumbered us; they far exceeded what's considered normal by the standards of past elections. This new guard weren't familiar with the etiquette of ordinary how-to-vote vollies of all persuasions; they were mean and they were coordinated in their meanness and their moves. I would move to a different area and then be shadowed by one or more of them or my volunteers would be. They would also loudly sing strange chants at the largely befuddled voters lined up and jiggle their candidate's corflutes at people walking in. The candidate himself would try to pick a fight with me or another of the candidates and then film what he hoped would be some kind of altercation with one of his young male volunteers. He accused one woman, an independent candidate from another electorate, of yelling when she clearly was not yelling at all. It was all very weird, and I honestly couldn't understand how he thought this behaviour would win him votes. In the lead-up too, all over the electorate I had my corflute signs pulled down again and again and again. I'd put them back up, and they'd get pulled down again, while his corflutes—and he had so many of them—stayed put. Then the nasty, blatantly sexist and factually wrong corflutes and large banners about me went up all around the electorate. The Liberal Party denied having anything to do with them; however, I witnessed their volunteers pack down these corflutes at the conclusion of voting on prepoll. A huge amount of money was spent in Aston by my opponent and those that backed him, but, once again, my volunteers and I stayed strong. For months we had been focused on the people of Aston through doorknocks, phone calls and regular visits to shopping centres, coffee shops and the like, and the response we received was incredibly positive towards me as their federal member and towards the Prime Minister and our federal Labor government about what we had achieved already in the three years in office and what I had delivered as their new member for Aston for the past two years. The Bayswater urgent care clinic, in particular, was a huge winner for our community of Aston. People in Aston loved it, and, if they hadn't heard about it, they loved learning about it. Cheaper medicines; 60-day scripts; the tripling of the Medicare incentives for GPs, making it easier to access bulk-billing; and the automatic $300 energy bill relief for 2024-25, which was extended for another $150 to the end of 2025—these were the things that truly helped people and truly mattered to people. During the 2025 federal election campaign, I was supported by an incredible team of wonderful and loyal volunteers, staff members and friends who once again rallied for me to be the member for Aston. They helped me by knocking on 20,000 doors, making 14,000 phone calls and letterboxing tens of thousands of dwellings within Aston. I would especially like to thank the following: Isabel Machuca, Cael McFarlane, Katie and Leiah, Pat and Ken Rivett, Lance Cadman, James Gan, Jacqui Cherry, Sally Larwood, Pat Kelly, Alison Fitch, Paul Sparks, Darcy Truin, Jesse Williams and Ashley Jakowitz. And to my staff—Russell, Hannah, Mannie, Divya, Shauna, Sunny, Chunying, Jacob, and Mary French—and former staffer Richard: thank you all too. Thank you so much to my state Labor colleagues: the member for Bayswater, Jackson Taylor MP, and the member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino MP, as well as Michael Galea MLC and all of their wonderful staff. To one of my dearest friends of many, many years and now senator for Victoria the Hon. Lisa Darmanin: thank you for your continued support and friendship over the years and also during the times I ran as the Labor candidate in Aston. You've been at all three of my campaign launches and have championed me all the way. I cannot thank you enough, Lisa. Thank you also to the senator's amazing staff for assisting me and my team throughout the last year. It's been incredible getting to know you all. To Senator Jess Walsh: thank you for all your assistance with doorknocking and for your support and friendship during my election campaign as well. Thanks also must go to those ministers, assistant ministers and senators who came to visit my electorate of Aston during the last term, some of whom came to visit during my re-election campaign too: Senator Penny Wong; Senator Katy Gallagher; the member for Chifley, Ed Husic; the member for Isaacs, Mark Dreyfus; Minister Clare O'Neil; Assistant Minister Ged Kearney; Minister Catherine King; Minister Kristy McBain; Minister Matt Keogh; Minister Tony Burke; Minister Anika Wells; Minister Amanda Rishworth; Minister Anne Aly; Minister Andrew Giles and, of course, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Having you all visit Aston was most welcomed by me and our community of Aston. Thank you to all the wonderful people of Aston who came out to support me and to re-elect me. As your MP in federal parliament, I am here to listen to you, learn from you and advocate for you to the best of my ability. Thank you for putting your trust in me. I'd also like to thank my wonderful family. Clancy, who's here today for me, thank you for being here. Thank you to my wonderful partner, Anthony, and to Lily, my daughter and Jamilah, my great-niece.
Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Bill 2025; Second Reading | Bills | House debates
Between July 2023 and June 2024 alone, there were 1,694 serious incidents across Services Australia's face-to-face service channel. These were not minor complaints. These were serious incidents:...
Between July 2023 and June 2024 alone, there were 1,694 serious incidents across Services Australia's face-to-face service channel. These were not minor complaints. These were serious incidents: threats, assaults, intimidation, harassment and acts of violence. As recently as May this year, two Australian Border Force contractors were assaulted with a bladed weapon while simply doing their job. These are not isolated events. They are part of a disturbing trend of aggression towards the people who serve our communities on behalf of the Commonwealth. I say this clearly. Any violence towards a Commonwealth worker is unacceptable. It is unacceptable morally, it is unacceptable legally and it is unacceptable in the kind of nation we aspire to be. This bill aims to deter such abhorrent conduct, to protect Commonwealth workers and to make it crystal clear that violence, intimidation and threats against those who serve the public will not be tolerated. Why is new Commonwealth legislation necessary? At present, most states and territories do have protection order schemes: family violence orders, personal safety orders and workplace protection orders. But these schemes have a gap. Under those laws, it is usually the affected individual, the victim themselves, who must bring forward an application in their name. That means a Commonwealth worker who is harassed, threatened or assaulted while on duty would have to put their name forward personally in making the application and, in some cases, would have to face their aggressor in court. That is unfair. It places an additional burden on people who are already vulnerable and who have already been subjected to violence or threats. The bill closes that legislative gap. Under the Commonwealth workplace protection order scheme, an authorised person from a Commonwealth entity will be able to apply for a workplace protection order on behalf of the worker or the workplace. This not only enhances privacy for Commonwealth workers but also strengthens their workplace health and safety protections. It allows them to keep serving the public without having to personally bear the legal and emotional weight of confronting their aggressor. Let me now turn to the key features of this important legislation. This scheme will apply to most Commonwealth workplaces, but it recognises that Commonwealth work is not limited to traditional offices or service centres. It will extend to mobile service pop-up shops in shopping centres. It will cover Commonwealth vehicles. It will even extend to a worker's own residence if they are working from home in the course of their official duties. In short, wherever a Commonwealth worker is carrying out Commonwealth work, this bill provides protection. The bill empowers an authorised person from a Commonwealth entity to apply to select courts for a workplace protection order on behalf of a worker or workplace. These applications can be made where personal violence has arisen out of, or in direct connection with, official Commonwealth duties and where there is a real risk it will occur again. The definition of 'personal violence' in this bill is intentionally broad and modern. It includes acts of physical violence, harassment and intimidation; threats of harm and harmful non-physical violence, such as verbal abuse over the phone or via email—because violence is not just physical; it can be psychological, verbal or digital, and our laws need to reflect that reality. On application, a Commonwealth, state or territory court will be able to make an interim consent or final order. In urgent circumstances interim orders can even be sought by phone or electronic means. When making a workplace protection order, the court will be able to impose conditions necessary or desirable to protect the worker or workplace. However—this is crucial—the bill makes it clear that a protection order cannot prevent a person from accessing necessary Commonwealth services or from exercising their democratic right to political communication. If conditions might limit access to services or communication, applicants must provide the court with information about alternative arrangements. This strikes the right balance between protecting workers and safeguarding the rights of the public. Either party, the Commonwealth or the respondent, can apply to vary or revoke an order. Appeals can also be made to the court, ensuring procedural fairness. Breaching a workplace protection order will carry serious consequences—up to 120 penalty units or two years imprisonment, or both. That sends a clear and strong message: protection orders are not optional; they are orders of the court and they will be enforced. Finally, the bill provides for a statutory review of the scheme three years after commencement. That will ensure the scheme is operating as intended and allow improvements where necessary. Behind all the details there are three principles at the heart of this bill. First is safety. Every worker has a right to be safe at work. That includes the teachers in our schools, the nurses in our hospitals and, yes, the Commonwealth workers in our service centres, airports and offices. Second is dignity. No one should be demeaned, intimidated or abused simply for doing their job. This bill recognises the humanity of our workers and gives them the legal backing they need to stand tall. Third is respect—respect for those who serve. Whether they are frontline service officers, Border Force contractors or policy staff working from home, they deserve respect, not aggression. This bill is also an important statement. It sends a strong message that the Albanese government values the workers who provide critical government services. It sends a strong message that violence and aggression towards those workers is unacceptable. It sends a strong message that the Commonwealth will stand by its people, not leave them to fend for themselves. When we talk about these protections, we are not talking about abstract legal concepts; we are talking about real people—the Services Australia officer who faces daily verbal abuse at the counter, the Border Force contractor assaulted with a knife while trying to keep our community safe and the Centrelink worker who receives threats over the phone simply for enforcing the law. These are people with families, with children, with loved ones waiting for them at home, and the least we can do as a parliament is make sure they get home safe. The Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Bill 2025 is not just another piece of legislation. It is a concrete step towards safer Commonwealth workplaces. It is a practical response to the recommendations of the Ashton review. It is a demonstration that this government will not tolerate violence against its workers. I commend this bill to the House and I urge all members to support it not just for the sake of the law but for the sake of the people who serve our nation every single day.
I rise today in strong support of the Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Bill 2025. This bill introduces new legislation and with it a new national scheme designed to provide Commonwealth...
I rise today in strong support of the Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Bill 2025. This bill introduces new legislation and with it a new national scheme designed to provide Commonwealth workers with the safety, dignity and protection they deserve in the course of their duties. This is a bill about safety. This is a bill about fairness. And, most importantly, this is a bill about respect—respect for the thousands of Australians who dedicate themselves to delivering critical services on behalf of the Commonwealth. Let me begin with why we are here. This bill is borne out of both necessity and tragedy. In 2023 the Albanese Labor government commissioned the Services Australia Security Risk Management Review, led by Graham Ashton AM APM, a respected law enforcement and public safety leader. That review, commonly referred to as the Ashton review, was triggered by what happened to a 55-year-old Services Australia team leader, Joeanne Cassar, one day in May of 2023 at a branch in Melbourne. Earlier that morning, a man whom Services Australia had already deemed a risk to workers, but whom they had no legal authority to ban from the branch, had turned up again. As team leader, Joeanne asked him to leave, and he did so immediately, but then he came back later with a knife. Joeanne had stepped in to cover for a security guard taking a lunch break. When the man returned with the knife, he lunged at Joeanne, chasing her back into the office. He punched her in the face and stabbed her once in the lower back, just missing her spine and kidneys but leaving her with life-changing injuries and enduring pain. This should never have been allowed to happen. Joeanne said only last month: 'We should all be safe at work. We all have family we want to get back to. It took me seven days to get home. And I'm one of the lucky ones.' No-one should ever go to work fearing that they may not come home safely or, worse, not come home at all. The Ashton review looked into the risks faced by Commonwealth frontline workers, especially those in public-facing roles. It made 44 recommendations to strengthen safety, security and protections. The government agreed to all 44 recommendations. One of those recommendations, recommendation 17, was that the current ACT workplace protection order provisions should be adapted for use by the Commonwealth as a staff protection mechanism nationwide, and that is precisely what this bill does. Some may ask: Is there really such a need? Are Commonwealth workers really at such risk? The answer is absolutely yes.
Housing | Statements by Members | House debates
One of the greatest challenges for young people in Aston is that, despite their hard work and saving efforts, many still struggle to buy their first home. For these young people in my community,...
One of the greatest challenges for young people in Aston is that, despite their hard work and saving efforts, many still struggle to buy their first home. For these young people in my community, a 20 per cent deposit is daunting, and, if they can't get to 20 per cent, they have to pay for mortgage insurance as well. Across the course of the election campaign, I heard these concerns loud and clear. Since being re-elected, this government has been working hard to address this challenge. From 1 October this year, we are expanding our first home buyer scheme, a scheme that's already been assisting hundreds of people in my electorate to buy their first home. These expansions mean that from 1 October, every first home buyer in Aston will only need a five per cent deposit to enter the housing market and buy their first home. Additionally, we're going to remove income caps, and we're lifting the property caps from $800,000 to $950,000 in the city of Melbourne. This means a $1 million home in my electorate will only require a $50,000 deposit instead of a $200,000 deposit. However, this is not the only thing this government has done to assist people into housing. Since being re-elected, we have paused the National Construction Code and are fast-tracking 26,000 homes stuck in the approval process. We are building more social and affordable housing, and we've invested over $43 billion in the Homes for Australia plan. These reforms are giving Australians a chance to step into their first home, build security for their families and invest in their futures.
Child Care | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Attorney-General. How is the Albanese Labor government progressing reform to the working-with-children checks system, and are there any recent updates to this important work?
Budget | Matters of Public Importance | House debates