Fatima Payman (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm grateful for this opportunity to deliver a speech written by Keira Fuller, a 16-year-old from Western Australia, as part of the Raise our Voice program, and she says:

Imagine what Australia could look like—and feel like—within the next decade if Parliament listens to diverse perspectives and actively seeks out young people's assistance in decision making.

I believe there should be more opportunities and connections for young, First Nations, people of colour and LGBTQIA+ people to be involved in decision-making in Parliament.

Politicians have so much power over the legislation, laws, and opinions of Australians, however these views and opinions are often from the same types of people.

As young people, we cannot vote until we turn 18 but we have so much to contribute.

There is a stereotype that young people are uneducated on 'the real world' that I whole-heartedly disagree with.

Australia's youth have access to so many different resources that keep us informed and in touch with environmental and humanitarian problems we are facing.

We have so much knowledge and experience on what it's like to live in our modern-day Australian society. We question everything and have the determination to change things.

Our voices are so valuable if only people in power are willing to listen.

If only they are willing to work with us, not just for us.

With accessible channels open to communication, we could have a more wide-spread, current view on many topics and ensure they are actively resolved.

Creating a more equal, inclusive Australia, for the world to be inspired by.

Our voices hold so much value, and we are right here, ready for the opportunity to share that with Australia.

Thank you, Keira. I am so proud to read your words in parliament and can assure you that this government takes your voice very seriously and I look forward to meeting you.