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Monday, 28 November 2022
Page: 3710

Mrs PHILLIPS (Gilmore) (16:44): This speech was written by Bridget Raftery, aged 16, from my electorate of Gilmore, thanks to Raise Our Voice Australia:

My name is Bridget, and I come from a small town on the NSW South Coast, where community and connection are integral to my daily routine.

I hear one concurrent notion in political conversations—that the amplification of marginalised voices to achieve a common goal is imperative to the new government's success.

However, the election promises of the Albanese government have seen little air time and have not yet been ratified.

I would like the new Parliament to achieve these promises as soon as possible, as this will increase Australia's resolve to combat issues such as climate change.

I believe this is only possible via close consultation with the people they directly affect.

I want discussions about women, First Nations peoples, and other marginalised communities moving out of Parliament, out of offices, and into communities like mine that are willing and able to have the conversation.

Many Australians feel disengaged from our policymakers and we must resolve this first.

It is impossible to achieve a resolution to suit the majority if the majority is rarely consulted and feels excluded.

To rejuvenate Australia's fighting spirit, we must bring them together to face our common enemy in climate change.

We must stand united. It is the only way forward.

Thank you, Bridget, and well done.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER ( Ms Chesters ): In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.