Jodie Belyea
Dunkley · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“For me, this shift became clear when I was confronted and intimidated by a group of 12 men, from a fringe organisation, intent on preventing me from speaking openly with members of the community, a mother and her daughter. It was a stark reminder that the tone of politics in our country is changing and changing quickly.”
“Over these past few weeks I've had an increasing number of conversations about the state of democracy in Australia. At the Langwarrin probus club I was asked what I thought about democracy and the current state of politics.”
“Democracy depends on engagement. It requires people to ask questions, to listen carefully and to disagree without being disagreeable. It is strongest not when everyone agrees, but when everyone believes they have a place in the conversation. The young people I met reminded me that engagement is not the problem—disconnection is.”
“My question is to the Prime Minister. Tomorrow is 1 July. Why is this an important day for those of us who are committed to strengthening Medicare, helping Australians earn more and keep more of what they earn and delivering real change? Is there anything standing in the way of these efforts?”
“It provides strong mechanisms to protect public funds, enforce compliance and maintain the integrity of programs that support healthcare delivery across the country. Importantly, it also provides a framework that can support future primary care initiatives as Australia's health system continues to evolve.”
“This is an important piece of legislation that strengthens the foundations of Medicare and supports the delivery of affordable, accessible and high-quality health care for Australians.”
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“This morning I sat in the chamber and listened to Minister Plibersek's announcement about the inquiry into domestic, family and sexual violence related suicide. As she spoke, my lived experience of domestic violence, stalking and predatory behaviour quickly rose to surface. It triggered memories of a time in my 20s when I contemplated suicide in order to flee the fear associated with domestic violence—violence that had me trapped mentally and physically because of stalking and violent behaviour requiring me to move residence five times. At that time talking about domestic or family violence was taboo. There were limited services. The shame of this experience meant that I kept it in the closet.”
“2) Bill 2025 is a landmark reform, one that restores fairness, integrity and compassion to our social service security system. It delivers clarity and compensation through the Income Apportionment Resolution Scheme, fairness through a modernised small debt waiver system, and protection and justice for victims-survivors of financial abuse. This bill reflects the values that underpin good government: integrity, fairness, compassion and responsibility. It recognises past mistakes, strengthens future processes and puts people, not bureaucracy, at the heart of social security policy. This is a good policy, it is fair policy and it is the right policy. I commend the bill to the House.”
“This reform delivers on our election commitment to embed safety in Commonwealth systems, implements key recommendations from the 2024 for parliamentary inquiry into financial abuse, and supports the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. Let me be absolutely clear: victims-survivors should never be held accountable for debts incurred through abuse. This bill enshrines that principle in law. And while this is a major step forward, our work does not end there. The government is continuing to consult on future reforms to ensure that perpetrators, not victims-survivors, are held financially accountable for debts that arise from abuse. The Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes No.”
“Financial abuse and coercive control are not abstract concepts; they are deliberate, devastating forms of manipulation and control designed to trap, punish and disempower. In many cases, victims-survivors have been forced to provide false information to Services Australia under threat or intimidation. Until now, they were still held responsible for those debts even though the actions were not truly their own. This bill changes that. It empowers decision-makers to consider the full circumstances that led to a person's situation, including whether they were acting under coercion or control.”
“This reform restores proportion, fairness and dignity to the system. The third reform is the most personally significant for many Australians. This bill strengthens the special circumstances debt waiver, empowering Services Australia to waive debts incurred as a result of financial abuse, coercion or family and domestic violence—an issue that goes to the heart of some of the experiences of many families, women and children in Dunkley. Before entering parliament, I worked for 15 years in domestic and family violence services with Anglicare and Family Life in south-east Victoria. I met women who could not leave abusive relationships because they were financially trapped. I met women who stayed because they simply did not have the means to support both themselves and their children.”
“In my community of Dunkley, many constituents have shared their experience of being pursued over small but stressful debts—debts that often arose through honest mistakes and cost more to recover than they were worth. This reform will mean that, in 2025-26, around 1.2 million undetermined debts will be waived or never raised. Nearly half of the existing backlog of undetermined debts will be cleared, and public resources will be redirected to supporting people, not chasing trivial amounts. We are not abandoning fiscal responsibility; we are strengthening it. Existing fraud safeguards remain firmly in place, but we are also recognising that most Australians engage with the social security system in good faith and that small administrative errors should not result in unnecessary hardship.”
“The current small debt waiver threshold, as low as $50, has not changed since the early 1990s. At that time, social security payments were significantly lower. Since then, those payments have tripled in value, yet the definition of 'small debt' has remained frozen in time. This bill will raise the small debt waiver threshold to $250, establishing a single, standardised limit that replaces the current fragmented range of $50 to $200. Importantly, it will also be indexed annually in July in line with the consumer price index, ensuring that the threshold keeps pace with modern economic realities. This is not just a technical change; it is a reform that will make a real difference in people's lives.”
“To assist people through this process, Economic Justice Australia and ACOSS will each receive $400,000 in funding to provide support and guidance. The scale of this reform cannot be understated. Around 5.5 million debts, held by approximately three million Australians and valued at $4.4 billion, may have been impacted by income apportionment. Because of limitations in historical records, identifying each case individually would be impossible without immense cost and distress. This legislation provides a fair, practical and compassionate way forward, acknowledging the flaws of the past, offering meaningful redress and ensuring legal certainty into the future. The second major reform in this bill brings long-overdue common sense and fairness to the way we handle small debts.”
“Recalculating these debts would cause unnecessary distress, create administrative chaos and divert vital resources away from frontline services that Australians rely on today. To ensure fairness, the bill also establishes the Income Apportionment Resolution Scheme, recognising that some Australians may have repaid debts that were incorrectly calculated and deserve to be compensated. The scheme will cover debts incurred from 1 September 2003 to 6 December 2020, the period when income apportionment was most clearly inconsistent with the law. Affected individuals will be eligible for a resolution payment of up to $600, depending on the size of their debt. Applications are expected to open from January 2026, once this legislation is passed.”
“While this approach may have been well intentioned at the time, the full Federal Court's decision in the Chaplin case made it clear that the practice was inconsistent with the legislation as it stood. It was, simply put, legally flawed. The Albanese Labor government has never used income apportionment, but, as the government responsible for restoring integrity to our social security system, we are taking decisive action to correct this legacy issue fairly, transparently and compassionately. This bill will retrospectively validate the practice of income apportionment, not to conceal past mistakes but to prevent the reopening of millions of old cases, many of which are decades old and already repaid.”
“This bill delivers three reforms: it resolves the longstanding issue of income apportionment, it improves debt management through increased small debt waivers and it strengthens protections for victims-survivors through special circumstances debt waivers, particularly in cases of financial abuse and coercive control. One of the most significant and longstanding issues this bill addresses is income apportionment. Between 1991 and 2020 Services Australia used a method known as income apportionment to determine eligibility and debt levels for income support recipients who also earn wages. When pay slips did not show clear daily earnings, officials distributed that income across multiple Centrelink fortnights to estimate the entitlement.”
“I rise today in strong support of the Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes No.2) Bill 2025. It is a long-overdue reform package that will bring greater fairness, clarity and compassion to the way we manage social security debt in Australia. With this bill the Albanese Labor government is delivering on its commitment to create a fairer and more efficient social security system—one that does not punish people unfairly, one that acknowledges past administrative errors and one that recognises the real-world complexities Australians face in their everyday lives.”
“My question is to the Treasurer. How is the Albanese Labor government helping Australians earn more, keep more of what they earn and retire with more? What other approaches is the government being asked to consider?”
“Since becoming fully bulk-billing on 18 August, the clinic has had 7,500 bulk-billed appointments, saving the local community $270,000. This clinic also operates Evoca Women's Health clinic, which provides reproductive health support to women. I am proud the Albanese Labor government is investing $8.5 billion into more bulk-billing, and it's heartening to see that the Young Street medical clinic is doing its bit to ensure my community get the care they deserve when they need it.”
“The 48th Parliament, a parliament where 55 per cent of the caucus are women, demonstrates that, when women have a seat at the table, we are able to get things done that support all Australians. Today I gathered with women from the federal parliament to celebrate that, on 1 November, a range of medications that support women's reproductive health will be listed on the PBS. In addition to increasing access to reproductive health medications, the federal government has established 33 women's health clinics. Just two weeks ago I was pleased to visit the Young Street medical clinic, operated by ForHealth, to celebrate the reintroduction of this clinic as a fully bulk-billed clinic open seven days a week. This clinic ensures Dunkley residents can access health care when they need it.”
“Among the e-petitions presented are some of the first e-petitions from the 48th Parliament to be certified. Of the e-petitions presented, five gained 5,000-plus signatures. These covered topics such as stillbirth awareness, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, regulation of payment processes and changes to the eSafety Commission. I am pleased to inform the House that the committee also certified 50 new e-petitions at its last meeting. These e-petitions are now collecting signatures on the e-petitions website. I look forward to updating the House further on the work of the petitions committee.”
“The following 10 ministerial responses to petitions were received. Ministerial responses received by the Committee on 2 September 2025 From the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister to a petition requesting a public inquiry into the response to the COVID-19 pandemic (EN5484) Ministerial responses received by the Committee on 23 September 2025 From the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship to a petition requesting visa application fee refunds for New Zealanders impacted by the July 2023 changes (EN5201) From the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship to a petition requesting visa application fee refunds for New Zealand citizens (EN5213) From the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister to a petition regarding the outcome of the 2023 Australian Indigenous Voice referendum (EN5551) From the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister to a petition requesting an early election (EN5636) From the Attorney-General to a petition requesting that a pardon be granted to Mr David McBride (EN6246) From the Minister for Foreign Affairs to a petition requesting a response to violence in Syria (EN7090) From the Minister for Housing to a petition requesting actions to address housing affordability (EN7099) Ministerial responses received by the Committee on 7 October 2025 From the Minister for Health and Aging to a petition requesting that obstetrics and gynaecology be included in a private health insurance risk equalisation framework (EN7227) From the Minister for the Environment and Water to a petition requesting that Australia be withdrawn from the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework (EN7339) Ms Jodie Belyea MP Chair—Petitions Committee”
“The committee resolved to present the following 264 petitions in accordance with standing order 207: Petitions certified on 20 August 2025 From 18 petitioners—requesting that all cars sold in Australia offer an option to disable features that may distract drivers (EN7343) From 6 petitioners—requesting policies to attract electric vehicle manufacturers to establish production in Australia (EN7344) From 20 petitioners—requesting Australia move towards economic independence from the United States and strengthen ties with other democratic nations (EN7349) From 15 petitioners—requesting reduced cigarette taxes and alternative approaches to address illegal tobacco and support low-income households (EN7353) From 57 petitioners—requesting the lifting of the ban on nuclear energy and investment in nuclear power infrastructure (EN7354) From 40 petitioners—requesting prioritisation of environmental education for foreign visitors to promote responsible tourism (EN7355) From 751 petitioners—requesting regulations to allow the importation of small quantities of well-packaged Ethiopian spices (EN7356) From 5 petitioners—requesting Australia cease the AUKUS agreement and trade with Canada and the European Union (EN7358) From 33 petitioners—requesting equal legal representation for both parents in Family Court and the removal of financial barriers (EN7359) From 16 petitioners—requesting enactment of protected designation of origin laws to support a free trade agreement with the European Union (EN7363) From 9 petitioners—requesting legislation to prevent companies charging women more for substantially similar goods and services (EN7367) From 10 petitioners—requesting that Centrelink update its definition of disability (EN7368) From 10 petitioners—requesting inclusion of paramedic students in the Commonwealth Prac Payment (EN7371) From 4 petitioners—requesting funding and programs to target literacy in government schools (EN7372) From 108 petitioners—requesting that skill assessments for physiotherapists be based on AHPRA and Australian experience (EN7373) From 8 petitioners—requesting laws to ensure equal wages regardless of age (EN7374) From 401 petitioners—requesting establishment of a Family Court Investigative Service (EN7378) From 1253 petitioners—requesting Medicare subsidised Eating Disorder Plans include individuals diagnosed with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (EN7379) From 3 petitioners—requesting Australia end all treaties and alliances except with the United States and Russia (EN7380) From 10 petitioners—requesting removal of goods and services tax in Australia (EN7383) From 84 petitioners—requesting increased protections for self-managed superannuation fund and retail investors (EN7384) From 77 petitioners—requesting government support for victims of fraud and stricter investment broker requirements (EN7385) From 21 petitioners—requesting national hospital nutrition standards and improved food service guidelines (EN7389) From 9 petitioners—requesting recognition of solo parents as 'family' under the Family Law Act (EN7392) From 831 petitioners—requesting an independent inquiry into the Westall incident (EN7396) From 9 petitioners—requesting legislation to guarantee minimum Centrelink payments (EN7397) From 21 petitioners—requesting strengthening of the online petitions system with more options for feedback and discussion (EN7398) From 4 petitioners—requesting withdrawal from the nuclear non- proliferation treaty and development of nuclear weapons (EN7401) From 19 petitioners—requesting a Royal Commission into early childhood education and amendments to quality standards (EN7402) From 4 petitioners—requesting expanded powers for the Australian Electoral Commission or a new regulator to manage election and referendum campaigning (EN7403) From 211 petitioners—requesting enactment of a law to address online bullying and harassment (EN7404) From 4 petitioners—requesting reinstatement of the Australian Active Service Medal for warlike operations post-2015 (EN7408) From 5 petitioners—requesting reforms to passport laws to address coercive control (EN7411) From 5 petitioners—requesting inclusion of prosthetic joint infection patients in the Stoma Application Scheme (EN7412) From 113 petitioners—requesting recognition of Lyme disease as a chronic condition and improved support for patients (EN7414) From 10 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into copyright and data abuse by Artificial Intelligence platforms (EN7415) From 5 petitioners—requesting reform of classification standards for games, cinema and television (EN7416) From 25 petitioners—requesting a ban on lab-grown meat production in Australia (EN7418) From 7 petitioners—requesting guaranteed medical treatment for all former Australian Defence Force members (EN7419) From 26 petitioners—requesting legislation to prohibit politicians and political parties from making false or misleading statements (EN7420) From 7 petitioners—requesting consideration of acquiring Pacific National for public ownership (EN7421) From 9 petitioners—requesting a ban on sonar purchases by the general public and unlicensed organisations (EN7423) From 19 petitioners—requesting tax relief for general practitioners to support bulk billing (EN7424) From 10 petitioners—requesting legalisation of private collection and preservation of cannabis seeds (EN7429) From 4 petitioners—requesting donation of mining equipment to the Democratic Republic of Congo (EN7432) From 7 petitioners—requesting legislation to regulate political spam messages and require opt-out options (EN7434) From 5 petitioners—requesting legislation to require unsubscribe options for political communications (EN7435) From 9 petitioners—requesting removal of privacy and spam exemptions for political parties (EN7436) From 16 petitioners—requesting amendment of legislation to require unsubscribe options for political communications (EN7439) From 8 petitioners—requesting amendments to allow people to control who can send them text messages (EN7442) From 4 petitioners—requesting mandatory unsubscribe options for political communications (EN7443) From 76 petitioners—requesting mandatory unsubscribe options for political communications via text message (EN7444) From 3 petitioners—requesting mandatory unsubscribe options for political communications (EN7445) From 4 petitioners—requesting removal of exemptions for political parties from spam laws and mandatory opt-out options (EN7446) From 98 petitioners—requesting legislative amendments to prohibit unsolicited political communications (EN7448) From 6154 petitioners—requesting dedicated funding for a national stillbirth awareness campaign (EN7449) From 29 petitioners—requesting mandatory unsubscribe options for political communications (EN7451) From 5 petitioners—regarding political representatives contacting individuals without consent (EN7452) From 7 petitioners—requesting a ban on political spam messages (EN7453) From 105 petitioners—requesting support for the development of a new single-site hospital in Albury/Wodonga (EN7454) From 10 petitioners—requesting legislation to classify unsolicited political texts and calls as spam (EN7455) From 20 petitioners—requesting unlimited work rights for partners of international students (EN7456) From 10 petitioners—requesting establishment of a permanent Disability Voice to Parliament led by people with lived experience (EN7457) From 11 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into the effectiveness of Headspace (EN7458) From 33 petitioners—requesting local content quotas on streaming services (EN7460) From 18 petitioners—requesting increased housing availability for Australian citizens (EN7461) From 15 petitioners—requesting removal of political party exemptions from the Spam Act 2003 (EN7462) From 4 petitioners—regarding education providers advertising placements without first arranging them for students (EN7463) From 9 petitioners—requesting removal of the English language test requirement for permanent residency applicants with Australian study and work experience (EN7466) From 35 petitioners—requesting a reduction in immigration and reform of the building industry (EN7467) From 10 petitioners—requesting investigation into vote counting and safeguards for electoral integrity (EN7468) From 20 petitioners—requesting deployment of a humanitarian field hospital in Gaza (EN7469) From 27 petitioners—requesting health card access for allied veterans who served in coalition forces post-1990 (EN7470) From 449 petitioners—requesting replacement of preferential voting with a simplified system and stronger transparency in political campaigns (EN7471) From 5 petitioners—requesting a review of offshoring practices (EN7475) From 16 petitioners—requesting a national ban on geo-engineering and weather modification activities (EN7479) From 4 petitioners—requesting action to encourage de-escalation between India and Pakistan (EN7480) From 127 petitioners—requesting an end to force posture initiatives and removal of foreign troops from Australia (EN7481) From 10 petitioners—requesting establishment of a rural and remote veterinary service model (EN7482) From 11 petitioners—requesting closer integration of trade, immigration and defence ties between Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and New Zealand (EN7484) From 6 petitioners—requesting a ban on businesses charging late fees (EN7486) From 3 petitioners—requesting reform of the parent visa program to reduce processing times (EN7490) From 16 petitioners—requesting reduction of the tax rate on superannuation withdrawals for working holiday makers (EN7491) From 20 petitioners—requesting establishment of a nationwide judicial commission (EN7494) From 15 petitioners—requesting opposition to any proposal to introduce a tax on unrealised capital gains (EN7500) From 14 petitioners—requesting increase of the personal income tax-free threshold to match the self-support income amount (EN7501) From 25 petitioners—requesting consideration of closer integration of trade, immigration and defence ties between Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and New Zealand (EN7502) From 60 petitioners—requesting protection for doctors legally prescribing medicinal cannabis (EN7504) From 8 petitioners—requesting negotiation of reciprocal migration benefits for Australians wishing to settle in Malta (EN7506) From 1533 petitioners—requesting introduction of an own use exemption for beekeepers to use non-synthetic treatments for Varroa mite (EN7508) From 416 petitioners—regarding processing of Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) applications (EN7512) From 24 petitioners—requesting increased Medicare rebates and unlimited bulk billing for psychiatric and psychology services (EN7513) From 33 petitioners—requesting reforms to the family law system (EN7514) From 161 petitioners—requesting national guidelines for access to loading zones for professional musicians (EN7515) From 16 petitioners—requesting adjustment of humanitarian visa terms to permit easier resettlement for LGBTIQ+ people (EN7520) From 13 petitioners—requesting removal of privacy law exemptions for political parties (EN7521) From 91 petitioners—requesting review of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 to balance human rights and free speech (EN7526) From 40 petitioners—requesting consideration of closer ties between Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and New Zealand (EN7527) From 13 petitioners—regarding a tax on unrealised capital gains (EN7531) From 27 petitioners—requesting a review of legislation to remove exemptions for politicians (EN7533) From 15 petitioners—requesting replacement of the current tax system with a single 1% tax on all purchases and abolition of income tax (EN7535) From 82 petitioners—requesting legislative reforms to ensure all laws apply equally to politicians and the public (EN7540) Petitions certified on 26 August 2025 From 6 petitioners—requesting consideration of a federal bitcoin and cryptocurrency reserve (EN7386) From 5 petitioners—requesting a motion expressing views on Hamas and its designation as a terrorist organisation (EN7406) From 12 petitioners—requesting the establishment of a special humanitarian visa program for transgender individuals from the United Kingdom (EN7430) From 8 petitioners—requesting the abolition of compulsory voting in Australia (EN7438) From 106 petitioners—requesting condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza (EN7472) From 6276 petitioners—requesting a requirement for professional reports submitted by National Disability Insurance Scheme participants to be considered in needs assessments (EN7545) From 12 petitioners—requesting changes to the process for determining child support payments (EN7548) From 8 petitioners—requesting an increase to the personal income tax-free threshold to match the self-supporting income amount (EN7549) From 3 petitioners—requesting relocation of a proposed wind farm away from the Kalbarri tourist skyline (EN7550) From 87 petitioners—requesting independent investigation and reforms to address sexual assault and support survivors in the Australian Defence Force (EN7552) From 1839 petitioners—requesting rejection of any proposal to tax unrealised capital gains (EN7556) From 19 petitioners—requesting standards for truth and accuracy in political reporting (EN7559) From 51 petitioners—requesting expansion of child care subsidies to include families who provide care at home (EN7560) From 51 petitioners—regarding government-funded parental leave payments for new permanent residents (EN7561) From 7 petitioners—requesting legislative changes to allow Tax File Numbers to be reissued to victims of identity theft (EN7562) From 38 petitioners—requesting the cessation of immigration and prioritisation of domestic issues (EN7602) From 136 petitioners—regarding access to guide dogs for people who are blind or have low vision and also have reduced mobility (EN7604) From 17 petitioners—requesting a change to the Australian National Anthem (EN7606) From 20 petitioners—requesting an increase in Disability Support Pension payment rates (EN7607) From 13 petitioners—requesting abolition of taxes for lower income earners and increased taxation for higher earners (EN7610) From 221 petitioners—requesting reform of the Family Law Act 1975 and associated processes (EN7611) From 1274 petitioners—requesting a government-backed business loan guarantee scheme (EN7615) From 433 petitioners—requesting extension of Pensioner Concession Card benefits to self-funded retirees eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (EN7616) From 12 petitioners—requesting establishment of a sovereign wealth fund to support social, welfare and infrastructure programs (EN7618) From 5127 petitioners—requesting independent scrutiny and increased funding for support coordination in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (EN7619) From 8 petitioners—requesting measures to prioritise local employment and limit outsourcing (EN7620) From 5 petitioners—requesting measures to increase support for Australian music and local artists on public broadcasting platforms (EN7621) From 1 petitioner—requesting measures to support access to international artists and performances (EN7622) From 38 petitioners—requesting legislation to reduce or eliminate plastic waste (EN7623) From 7 petitioners—requesting an independent review of National Disability Insurance Agency pricing arrangements (EN7633) From 10 petitioners—requesting improvements to Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) processing and to the immigration system (EN7640) From 26 petitioners—requesting measures to strengthen child support obligations (EN7641) From 3 petitioners—requesting prioritisation of visa processing for Iranian nationals (EN7642) From 6 petitioners—requesting changes to the management of unemployment services (EN7644) From 6 petitioners—requesting a policy of non-engagement in military conflicts (EN7646) From 286 petitioners—requesting mandatory labelling for all products containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (EN7647) From 5 petitioners—requesting establishment of cross-jurisdictional consultation protocols for renewable energy policy changes (EN7649) From 6 petitioners—requesting measures to strengthen privacy and data protection (EN7651) From 1 petitioner—requesting enforcement of daily and weekly gaming limits for children (EN7659) From 5 petitioners—requesting measures to strengthen cooperation with Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom (EN7660) From 11 petitioners—requesting adoption of a military neutrality policy (EN7666) From 4 petitioners—requesting options for non-wireless communication services (EN7669) From 14 petitioners—requesting clarification regarding Hungarian citizenship regulations which may impact dual nationals (EN7670) From 13 petitioners—requesting changes to require parliamentary approval for military deployments (EN7671) From 133 petitioners—requesting formal bravery recognition for Childers Auxiliary firefighters (EN7672) From 195 petitioners—requesting review of food safety regulations to permit dogs in indoor hospitality areas (EN7673) From 11 petitioners—requesting changes to taxes on unrealised capital gains (EN7674) From 4 petitioners—requesting review of hiring practices (EN7676) From 92 petitioners—requesting stricter regulation of overseas investments and foreign ownership (EN7679) From 14 petitioners—regarding taxes on unrealised capital gains (EN7681) From 9 petitioners—requesting measures to improve access to university education for long-term visa holders (EN7683) From 130 petitioners—requesting reconsideration of a particular visa application (EN7684) From 91 petitioners—regarding mandatory registration for independent National Disability Insurance Scheme support workers and therapists (EN7685) From 12 petitioners—requesting the inclusion of First Nations education in compulsory citizenship materials (EN7686) From 76 petitioners—regarding legislation to tax unrealised capital gains involving superannuation (EN7687) From 884 petitioners—requesting establishment of 21 June as Flannel Flower Day for mental health awareness and suicide remembrance for veterans (EN7689) From 11 petitioners—requesting reform of child care safety regulations (EN7692) Petitions certified on 2 September 2025 From 12 petitioners—requesting access to superannuation funds for first home deposits (EN7493) From 50 petitioners—requesting Australia to urge Israel to allow aid into Gaza (EN7497) From 49 petitioners—requesting recognition of persecution of Crimean Tatars (EN7507) From 48 petitioners—requesting independent review and public reporting of government budgets and financial interests (EN7511) From 39 petitioners—requesting condemnation of the blockade in Gaza and support for humanitarian aid (EN7518) From 2032 petitioners—requesting national regulation of assisted reproductive technology and a donor conception registry (EN7525) From 23 petitioners—requesting diplomatic engagement with the Israeli ambassador concerning the situation in Gaza (EN7532) From 669 petitioners—requesting a renewal pathway for offshore-qualified pharmacists to maintain credential validity (EN7534) From 184 petitioners—requesting review of Australia's defence alliance with the United States to assess its relevance (EN7614) From 85 petitioners—requesting mobilisation of Australian humanitarian aid to Gaza (EN7634) From 7 petitioners—requesting that Australia avoid involvement in any potential conflict relating to Iran (EN7658) From 8 petitioners—requesting restrictions on Australian support for United States military operations relating to Iran (EN7665) From 53 petitioners—requesting sanctions against Israel (EN7668) From 2917 petitioners—requesting support for Palestinians in Australia and diplomatic measures relating to Middle East conflicts (EN7675) From 52 petitioners—requesting suspension of exports of any equipment which may be used in the conflict in Gaza (EN7682) From 5 petitioners—regarding cheating in online multiplayer games (EN7695) From 7 petitioners—requesting mandatory surveillance cameras in child care settings (EN7696) From 3 petitioners—requesting a Commonwealth loan guarantee scheme to support small business ownership (EN7697) From 150 petitioners—requesting support for fair legal proceedings under international law (EN7699) From 20 petitioners—requesting consumer law reform to prohibit disabling purchased video games (EN7703) From 26 petitioners—requesting strengthened safeguarding measures in child care settings (EN7704) From 37 petitioners—requesting legislation to require offline access for video games at the end of their commercial life (EN7706) From 158 petitioners—requesting a pause and review of changes to disability support pricing (EN7711) From 138 petitioners—requesting clear tax guidelines and policy review for employee ownership trusts (EN7712) From 50 petitioners—requesting improved child safety checks and accountability measures (EN7713) From 7 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into access to care for people with chronic pain (EN7723) From 6 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into establishing a civilian militia force (EN7724) From 11 petitioners—requesting changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing (EN7725) From 14 petitioners—requesting higher travel safety level for the United States (EN7726) From 224 petitioners—requesting a unified national system to strengthen checks for individuals working with children (EN7727) From 2 petitioners—regarding alleged violations of international law by Israeli authorities in Gaza (EN7736) From 67 petitioners—requesting a pause on immigration to address housing affordability (EN7738) From 17 petitioners—requesting regulation of petrol pricing (EN7739) From 5 petitioners—requesting inclusion of vaccines for respiratory syncytial virus and pertussis for older adults in the National Immunisation Schedule (EN7743) From 89 petitioners—requesting the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador (EN7750) From 118 petitioners—requesting support for a ceasefire in Gaza and advocacy for humanitarian access (EN7751) From 16 petitioners—regarding the feasibility of domestic nuclear weapons development (EN7754) From 16 petitioners—requesting regulation of automated content moderation by large technology companies (EN7756) From 14 petitioners—requesting consideration of citizen-initiated referenda (EN7761) From 9 petitioners—requesting negotiations for a mobility and security agreement with Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom (EN7763) From 8 petitioners—requesting establishment of a military and economic pact with New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom (EN7766) From 684 petitioners—requesting expansion and reform of the Community Support Program for refugee visas (EN7767) From 8 petitioners—requesting support for the resignation of Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism (EN7768) From 248 petitioners—requesting the removal of Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism (EN7770) From 101 petitioners—requesting tax exemptions for part-time research student stipends (EN7775) From 168 petitioners—requesting independent safety evaluation of advanced artificial intelligence systems (EN7777) From 5 petitioners—requesting changes to allow dual applications to the redress scheme for survivors of sexual abuse (EN7778) From 76 petitioners—requesting stronger regulatory action and improved communication regarding complaints about charitable governance (EN7781) From 2 petitioners—requesting exemptions from mandatory superannuation contributions for high-income earners (EN7782) From 277 petitioners—requesting reform of parent visa programs to reduce wait times and financial barriers (EN7783) From 245 petitioners—requesting negotiations for a mobility and security agreement with New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom (EN7784) From 5 petitioners—requesting limited preferential voting in federal elections (EN7785) From 19 petitioners—requesting long-term specialist referrals for chronic conditions under Medicare (EN7787) From 440 petitioners—requesting diplomatic advocacy for clemency and humanitarian consideration in the case of Debbie Voulgaris (EN7788) From 27 petitioners—requesting legislation to prevent payment processors from restricting the sale of media (EN7790) From 95 petitioners—requesting review of the adoption of the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement (EN7791) From 16 petitioners—requesting reform of consumer rights for digital products and services (EN7792) From 16 petitioners—requesting recognition of a Palestinian state (EN7795) From 68 petitioners—requesting measures to prevent extended overseas military involvement and enable investigation of potential breaches of international law (EN7797) From 56 petitioners—requesting investigation of access to digital goods and services (EN7798) From 8655 petitioners—requesting regulation of payment processors as essential infrastructure (EN7799) From 3 petitioners—requesting implementation of age verification on the Discord platform (EN7800) From 1577 petitioners—requesting investigation of advocacy organisations for alleged coercive conduct (EN7802) From 9 petitioners—requesting to lower the voting age and allow earlier enrolment (EN7804) From 6 petitioners—requesting changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme safety net and automation of safety net processes (EN7805) From 17 petitioners—requesting public disclosure of funding sources and relationships for non-governmental organisations (EN7811) From 61 petitioners—requesting consideration of a transition to a four-day work week (EN7812) From 36 petitioners—requesting importation of hormone-treated beef be prohibited (EN7813) From 55 petitioners—requesting Australian support for the Israeli Government be ceased (EN7814) From 30 petitioners—requesting repeal of digital age verification requirements (EN7815) From 37 petitioners—regarding concerns related to political leadership (EN7816) From 17 petitioners—requesting transparency related to professional athlete contracts (EN7817) From 9 petitioners—requesting increased funding to support adoption of universal coercive control laws (EN7819) From 17 petitioners—requesting recognition of Palestinian statehood and support for a ceasefire (EN7821) From 7 petitioners—requesting support for a national clinical trial of faecal microbiota transplantation for treatment-resistant depression (EN7822) From 131 petitioners—requesting repeal of social media age limit restrictions and support for digital literacy education (EN7824) From 2 petitioners—requesting social media access for young people with strong safeguards (EN7826) From 12 petitioners—requesting exclusion of YouTube from social media age limit restrictions (EN7827) From 91 petitioners—requesting changes to online safety laws and adoption of a parent-child digital safety framework (EN7828) From 9 petitioners—requesting exemption of YouTube and Discord from social media age limit restrictions (EN7829) From 147 petitioners—requesting repeal of online safety legislation and protection of internet anonymity (EN7830) From 2938 petitioners—requesting recognition of functional neurological disorder in disability support guidelines and improved access to support (EN7833) From 5 petitioners—regarding the provision of supporting documents for expatriate adoptions (EN7835) From 36 petitioners—requesting legislation requiring employers to provide feedback to job applicants (EN7836) From 13 petitioners—requesting changes to the Australian National Flag (EN7839) From 18 petitioners—requesting removal of social media age limit restrictions (EN7842) From 25 petitioners—requesting removal of social media age limit restrictions (EN7843) From 25 petitioners—requesting changes to the management of child support payments (EN7844) From 271 petitioners—requesting removal of social media age limit restrictions (EN7845) From 95 petitioners—requesting standardised referral letters for allied health services under chronic condition management plans (EN7846) From 150 petitioners—requesting repeal of social media age limit restrictions and support for parental controls (EN7847) From 84 petitioners—requesting reduction of parliamentary salaries and increased transparency (EN7848) From 43 petitioners—requesting consultation with young people on social media legislation (EN7849) From 14 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into release of high-risk detainees and other matters (EN7855) From 83 petitioners—requesting removal of subsidies and changes to taxation for oil and gas companies (EN7856) From 214 petitioners—requesting reconsideration of social media age limit restrictions (EN7857) From 61 petitioners—requesting a federally funded scheme for drug and alcohol testing in family law proceedings (EN7858) From 139 petitioners—requesting consideration of minimum wage for parliamentarians (EN7862) From 60 petitioners—requesting permanent funding and access to culturally safe telehealth services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (EN7864) From 248 petitioners—requesting reform of battery approval schemes to ensure technology neutrality and consumer safety (EN7865) From 16 petitioners—requesting an inquiry into the collapse of managed investment schemes and improved investor protections (EN7867) From 132 petitioners—requesting review of qualification pathways in early childhood education to ensure appropriate standards (EN7868) From 215 petitioners—requesting legislation to make burning the Australian National Flag a criminal offence (EN7870) From 120 petitioners—requesting prohibition of automatic LED headlights on vehicles (EN7871) From 5757 petitioners—requesting a review of proposed changes to the powers of the eSafety Commission (EN7872) 2.”
“I present the third report of the Petitions Committee for the 48th Parliament. The report read as follows— HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PETITIONS COMMITTEE REPORT No. 03 Petitions a nd Ministerial Responses 27 October 2025 MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE Chair Ms Jodie Belyea MP Deputy Chair Mr Leon Rebello MP Mr Cameron Caldwell MP Ms Emma Comer MP Ms Trish Cook MP Mr Rowan Holzberger MP Mr Llew O'Brien MP Ms Tracey Roberts MP This committee is supported by staff of the Department of the House of Representatives Report summarising the petitions and ministerial responses being presented. The committee met in private session in the 48th Parliament on 20 August, 26 August, 2 September and 23 September 2025. 1.”
“This past month, I joined Save the Children in Laos and the Australian Navy in Hastings, learning alongside colleagues from across the aisle. We learnt and worked together to deliver for this nation. But this week we've seen an eruption of unnecessary division and destruction from the opposition. This is not what we expect from the leaders of our communities. Now, more than ever, we need our government and its representatives to come together and deliver for the people of our country. (Time expired)”
“The Albanese Labor government is laser focused on building Australia's future, easing cost-of-living pressures and ensuring Australians earn more and keep more of what they earn. It has been just six months since the election, and we are delivering. We've capped PBS medicines at the lowest cost since 2004 at $25, cut student HECS debt by 20 per cent and expanded free TAFE. We've given first home buyers a leg up with a five per cent deposit scheme, provided energy bill relief and delivered tax cuts to every taxpayer. Just today, we announced $72 million to boost headspace services across the nation. That is more support for young Australians' mental health. This list is long and the impact real. Labor is delivering for all Australians.”
“To all of the staff, including Commander Cameron Eastman OAM, who coordinated our visit: thank you for your passion in delivering quality education and care to the recruits. To all of you: thank you for stepping up, for your representation and for your service to Australia. You are all legends. I walked away proud and inspired by our Defence Force. Well done.”
“Last week, I had the pleasure of spending three days at HMAS Cerberus in Hastings, visiting the Navy's national training base, which sits in the neighbouring electorate of Flinders. The purpose of the visit was to meet the staff and the new recruits, a number of whom live in Dunkley, and to better understand the different elements of the training the recruits complete. I wasn't just a visitor. I was put through my paces alongside them. I participated in the swim trial, attended classes and enjoyed mealtimes with these young men and women to discover why they joined, what they learnt and what the most difficult part of the training was. The recruits and staff were passionate about being part of the Navy and committed to serving their country. That pride and dedication have been reflected in increased sign-ups over the past 12 months.”
“I want to use my voice in this chamber and my experience as a wife to encourage all men over 40 to talk to their GP about prostate cancer testing as part of their regular checkups, because you never know; a finger up the clacker may save your life.”
“In light of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, checking in on our mates, our female friends and those that are close to us has never been more important. It's Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. It is a disease that one in six Australian men are diagnosed with by the time they are 85. I currently know four men who have been dealing with this issue. Dave, my husband, was fortunate to survive prostate cancer. 'It all started with a finger up the clacker' is the name of my husband's memoirs that track his journey with prostate cancer over eight years. Raising awareness this September could mean a father, brother, partner or son is diagnosed earlier, and survival rates could be higher; 3,330 men die each year from prostate cancer—more than the number of women killed by breast cancer. This is unacceptable.”
“We will meet with local secondary schools and host a forum with men from local organisations, businesses, sporting clubs and young men 16-plus to discuss men's health and wellbeing by bringing together representatives from community groups and schools and working with men and boys to identify what is working, explore the challenges, share personal experiences and present ideas on what is missing. The forum will be powered by The Man Cave and Movember, along with SmackTalk and the Mental Health Safety Net. These organisations deliver great programs at a local, state and national level, providing awareness on mental health and wellbeing and the importance of reaching out for help if you are not travelling well.”
“Over seven million Australian adults are close to someone who has died by suicide or who has attempted suicide. One in two people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25. Men are three times more likely to die from suicide than females, with men aged 55 to 59 representing the largest increase in the age-specific suicide rate for Australians aged 15 and over. The Dunkley community is disproportionately impacted by suicide and higher-than-state-average suicide rates. This is an issue close to me and my community, and that is why I've invited Dan Repacholi, the Special Envoy for Men's Health, to the electorate in November.”
“To all the residents from Chelsea to Carrum Downs, Mount Eliza to Patterson Lakes and Karingal to Langwarrin—I am committed to delivering for Dunkley, now and into the future, by being a strong local voice in Canberra. Now is the time for us to walk the talk, work together and deliver the outcomes our community needs—outcomes on the land of the Bunurong people, the land by the sea, the best place to be.”
“We need to be respectful of the environment and our waterways, while ensuring we maximise renewable energy projects, which will be critical in this transition for generations to come. No one level of government or organisation is going to be able to achieve the target of 33,000 homes on its own. We need all players to come together as a collective to understand the appetite and opportunities—the innovators, the investors, the community organisations and the community leaders who are committed to laying and building firm foundations—lots of them together, not in isolation. Labor's achievements in Dunkley since 2018 make me very proud, but I know that the people of Dunkley re-elected me to continue bringing to life our bold and visionary agenda.”
“In November, the Minister for Housing will bring together local, state and federal government, community organisations, housing providers and investors and those with land, business plans and a commitment to invest in housing. There are significant gains to be made with regard to meeting housing supply targets. We need a mix of housing for a range of people from all walks of life. Transitional housing, veterans' housing, aged care, retirement villages, key worker housing, and social and affordable housing; the list is long and broad. As we work towards this transition, we must build a climate-resilient community and infrastructure and look after our best natural asset in Dunkley—the bay—so everyone can enjoy it.”
“We have a target in Dunkley to build 33,000 homes. We have a range of organisations—with land, a vision and some money to invest—that are keen to help build more homes and to ensure that we have roofs over people's heads. It's time we bring all of these stakeholders together to work on a solution to build a mix of homes for people from all walks of life in Dunkley. Throughout my career I've worked with organisations and communities to build local, state and national-level programs that provide solutions to a social issue—or what we call 'a wicked problem'. Housing is a wicked problem. Creating solutions to this problem means bringing people with aspirations and ideas together, and that is what I intend to do in Dunkley.”
“During the by-election and recent election, I heard so many stories that illustrated the scale of the challenges we face on housing affordability—women forced to move house with their children due to rent increases; women that are fleeing domestic and family violence; a young trainee childcare worker whose rent had increased so much that they were now selling personal items to be able to afford their next rent. These past 18 months the federal government has invested $43 billion into housing—that is an incredible investment. We have an ambitious target of building 1.2 million homes. We've got the Crisis and Transition Accommodation Program. We've got the Help to Buy scheme that will enable first homebuyers to purchase a home with just five per cent deposit. This initiative, this week, has been brought forward to commence in 2025.”
“We need to provide spaces and places that give them hope and a sense of possibility through the provision of programs such as leadership initiatives that build them up and keep them connected, creating hope and a sense of possibility—because you can't be what you can't see. I remain committed to working with all stakeholders and community groups to deliver the best outcomes for Dunkley. I will work to offer young people opportunities to learn, to live to their potential and lead through the Dunkley Emerging Leaders Program. And while we are supporting young people to learn, grow and lead, we need to work on providing people with every chance to have a roof over their head.”
“For 20 years of my career, I worked with young people from all corners of this country, youth dealing with trauma who wanted to climb out of the clutches of disadvantage that comes with abuse, domestic and family violence, substance abuse, unemployment and learning difficulties. Young people are increasingly passionate and committed to social justice, equity and fairness, doing their bit for our great country. To ensure more young people have the life and employment skills and confidence to lead and navigate the complex issues we face now and into the future, we must invest in them.”
“On 12 November, I will be hosting a men's health and wellbeing forum with the Special Envoy for Men's Health, Dan Repacholi. We will be inviting men, including young men, from the community, community organisations and schools to come together so we can hear their thoughts and ideas about what we have and what we're missing. We are also working towards a local Louisa Dunkley roundtable with the Minister for Social Services and the Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence in early 2026. The event will provide agencies working with women and families that have lived experience an opportunity to come together and share their experiences and their solutions and to understand what more we can do as a government.”
“This past six months, this government has committed $147,000 to 43 organisations through volunteer grants and stronger communities funding. We've invested $85,000 for stronger communities organisations and $62,000 for volunteer groups. Congratulations to all of you for the incredible work you have done to deliver much-needed services and support to people in Dunkley. You are local champions, and I thank you. But I'm not done there. I'm acutely aware of the significant challenges surrounding men's health nationally—predominantly in Dunkley. Dunkley, unfortunately, has higher-than-state-average suicide rates. It is imperative for me that I do what I can as a local MP to facilitate and support conversations in my community about suicide so that people understand and are able to address this issue locally.”
“I have been a volunteer in the community for many years and know there are so many people who give up their evenings and weekends to run the widest range of organisations and activities that you can imagine—basketball, bowling, cricket, football, netball, scouts, soccer and tennis, not to mention art, ballet, theatre schools, swimming groups and service clubs. In Dunkley, we've got it all. And, at a time when volunteering across Australia is at its lowest, in Dunkley it's as strong as ever. In my first speech, I spoke about our volunteer community and about volunteers being the backbone of our community. To the volunteers of Dunkley: you are amazing. I love coming to visit you at your different activities to see the incredible work you do for so many that we need to support.”
“This year alone, $109 million has been invested into Dunkley thanks to the Albanese Labor government. We have critical infrastructure projects: a $50 million investment into the Nepean Highway and Overton Road precinct; a $7.6 million investment into the much-deserved Bruce Park and Len Phelps reserve; $25 million for Thompsons Road upgrades; and over $1.7 million for the Frankston bowls club, which is a hub for so many older people in our community, who love to come together and bowl on the weekends and during the week. And it doesn't stop there. There's almost half a million dollars for SmackTalk, Wayne Holdsworth's work, nearly $1 million for the Brotherhood of St Laurence for their Thrive Hub and funding for the McClelland gallery. Dunkley is a hive of volunteer and community organisations that work with people from all walks of life.”
“We've got the First People's Health and Wellbeing clinic, a new Medicare urgent care clinic and car parks at both Frankston and Kananook stations. Our aspirations to grow from a town to a city have been further supported through the endorsement of the Frankston Metropolitan Activity Centre. A plan for the ongoing revitalisation of Frankston was signed off by Frankston City Council and the Victorian state government earlier this year. This vision for growth and revitalisation has been supported by the federal government. These past 18 months, the Prime Minister himself has visited the community seven times, as he understands the opportunities and ambitions of our community. Since the by-election, he has supported my advocacy efforts, ensuring we build a thriving, inclusive community.”
“In the last decade, thanks to investment from the federal and state Labor governments, we have seen record investment in the area, and it is paying dividends in improved public transport, better connectivity, the redevelopment of Chisholm Institute and the soon-to-be-completed $1 billion Peninsula University Hospital. It means our community can access world-class health services and education and make Dunkley their home without compromising their living standards. Thanks to the work of the late Peta Murphy from 2019 to 2023, $220 million worth of funding commitments have continued to materialise into some incredible facilities and services for the people of Dunkley. We've got the Jubilee Park Stadium, the Frankston district netball and basketball stadium redevelopment, Emil Madsen Reserve and the Ballam Park redevelopment.”
“Our community gathered when it was failing, and it was backed by the local state member Paul Edbrooke advocating to ensure the club's viability. Now our beloved Dolphins are in the qualifying finals, and the community is buzzing with excitement at the prospect of the club taking out the VFL title. Good luck to the Dolphins team, players, coaches and board. All you have achieved these past eight years has landed you in the qualifying finals this weekend. Things are changing. The Dunkley community is transitioning from a town to a city. We are dusting ourselves off as individuals and a community, standing taller and prouder as we think big and implement our vision for the future in so many different ways.”
“Dunkley is an incredible community with a can-do spirit. We're proud people. We care about each other. We help each other every day. We are demographically diverse. I saw a mix of wealth, poverty and everything in between as I doorknocked in every suburb around the electorate; 37,000 doors, 30,000 phone calls and 20,000 conversations gave me a really solid picture of who our community is and are. Talking to locals involved in community sport, service clubs and organisations highlights time and time again that we punch above our weight as a community. We are, despite our reputation, an ambitious and motivated lot of people. Indeed, there is no better symbol of our community's improvement than the recent success of our much-loved Frankston Dolphins Football Netball Club.”
“The Albanese Labor government is aspirational, and it is a reflection of the community of Dunkley, which has got a big heart and lots of opportunity. Dunkley is home to a tight-knit community of families, children, older people, key industry workers and students. It is an emerging regional centre for many community organisations working to support those most in need, small-business owners and everything in between. I am very proud to call Dunkley my home. It's a place close to me, as I have lived and worked in the community for 30 years. Frankston, affectionately known to locals as Franga, has often borne the brunt of jokes. It has had a reputation of being a rough area because of its location at the end of the train line. Up until about 10 years ago, there was an underinvestment in the community, but that has slowly but surely changed.”
“When I'm out and about in the community, speaking to locals, I hear how important these reforms are to the community of Dunkley, particularly for its women, who can now access more medications for endometriosis and menopause. In addition to the largest cut to the cost of medicines in the history of the PBS, the Albanese Labor government has established new mental health hubs, endometriosis clinics and the very popular Medicare urgent care clinics, with one in Dunkley. The Albanese Labor government is delivering for Dunkley and for the country to keep us well. (Time expired)”
“I rise today to talk about the Albanese Labor government and what it has delivered in terms of another cost-of-living measure. I am proud to sit on this side of the House and reduce the cost of medicines, cutting the PBS general patient co-payment from $31.60 to just $25 from 1 January next year. The last time PBS medicines cost no more than $25 was in 2004, more than 20 years ago, when I was just 21—not really! Since our re-election, we have wasted no time on this decision, delivering on this commitment and another cost-of-living measure. In Victoria, residents have saved more than $425 million on 69 million scripts.”
“Our youth need empowerment, but our community is resilient and always rallies together. I'm looking forward to visiting all of the organisations that have received grants to see the incredible contributions and thank them for their dedication.”
“These issues aren't abstract; they're being felt in homes, on our streets and throughout the community and became even more evident during conversations on doorsteps during the by-election and federal election. Therefore the Emerging Leaders Program aims to engage, educate and empower young people who are emerging leaders from the Dunkley electorate. Young people who are interested in being advocates and change agents, locally and more broadly, will be engaged to build their leadership skills and knowledge and develop strategies for progressing solutions to issues impacting young people in the Dunkley community. The program will be available for young adults aged 18 to 21 years, with the application process open in September. You can check out my newsletter for updates. Dunkley has its challenges.”
“A clear pattern has emerged: growing concern about the mental health and wellbeing of our young people and their access to secure housing, and uncertainty about their future, particularly around the cost of education and employment opportunities, even in the context of historically low unemployment. Many young people have also expressed deep concern about climate change and global instability. Community forums have further revealed a strong sense of frustration and anxiety around issues like youth, antisocial behaviour, homelessness and the impact of social media on mental health. These concerns are echoed by residents who are increasingly worried about safety and the wellbeing of local young people.”
“Activities build community connection and wellbeing. They are important for mental health. As someone who founded a local not-for-profit, I know how much of a financial boost these grants provide. As everyone in this chamber will know by now, I was a youth worker. I have never forgotten the work I did and my commitment to ensuring our young people have the best opportunities and remain engaged in our community and civics education. That is why I am an avid supporter of the youth parliament and look forward to working with my community to find a young person from Dunkley to be part of the National Youth Parliament. Over the past 14 months, as the MP for Dunkley, I've had the opportunity to speak with young people, parents and professionals from all across our community.”
“Without the tireless work of volunteers, many essential services and sporting and other social clubs that form the social fabric of our amazing community simply would not exist. Services like the Miscarriage Information Support Service, who support women who have experienced early pregnancy loss, would not be able to continue. The Langwarrin Men's Shed, who do critical work to engage and support men to connect in the community and with each other, would not exist. The Monterey Secondary College Breakfast Club, the Frankston Raiders Rugby League Club and the Seaford Tigers Cricket Club all have a distinct role to play in our community. Their hard work has also been recognised and remunerated. These clubs and organisations rely on volunteers and provide important activities for children, young people and adults.”