Gabriel Ng
Menzies · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“Labor stands for equality of opportunity, and at the heart of equality of opportunity is accessible, universal health care. That's why, from 1 July, we'll deliver over $25 billion in additional funding for public hospitals over five years, including $5.8 billion in Victoria alone for places like Box Hill Hospital, which do so much to supp…”
“Since we cut the maximum cost of PBS medicines to $25—and $7.70 for concession card holders—members of our community have saved over $600,000 at the pharmacy counter. Some of these medicines would have cost patients tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.”
“Happy financial New Year Eve, as everyone says. Every single day, the Albanese Labor government is focused on making things better for hardworking Australians in my community, in Menzies, and right across the country.”
“From tomorrow, the $20,000 instant asset write-off becomes permanent, helping small businesses right across the country with their cash flow. From tomorrow, paid parental leave reaches a full 26 weeks—six months of support for new parents to be shared amongst them, as they see fit.”
“A couple of weeks ago, I joined the Bulleen-Templestowe Basketball Club at their Big Freeze at the B to raise funds to fight MND. Coaches, clubs, volunteers and, yes, even their local federal MP put their hands up for the ice bucket challenge.”
“The good news is that survival rates have dramatically improved, with over 80 per cent of children surviving with treatment. That progress is a direct result of research, funding and the dedication of clinicians and scientists.”
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“The truth is that Australia once had a dedicated public health agency, the Australian National Preventive Health Agency, established by a Labor government in 2010. In 2014, that agency was abolished by the coalition government. At the time, the decision was justified under the guise of reducing the size of government and achieving greater efficiency, but what efficiency was achieved? Instead of strengthening the health system, this decision dismantled our national preventive health infrastructure and left us without a central body to coordinate and advise on emerging threats. That gap in leadership came at a profound cost to Australians. So, when the pandemic struck in 2020, we paid the price for this lack of foresight.”
“Governments across Australia acted quickly to stop the spread of the disease. Restrictive measures were enacted: enforcing the closure of businesses and schools, mandating social distancing and limiting movement, to name a few. The necessary swiftness of these measures saved lives and protected the health system, but the economic, social and mental health impacts were not always fully understood. I say again that we cannot forget the failures of the Morrison Liberal government in being too slow to acquire vaccines and distribute them. Vaccines were our main path out of the measures that we had to put in place to protect public health, and a slowness and delay in acquiring them meant that lockdowns had to be longer than needed. We can also look further back to understand how we reached this point.”
“We cannot simply assume that, because we endured COVID-19, we are safe from future threats. This is about protecting Australians from the health risks that lie ahead, from emerging infectious diseases to climate driven health challenges that are growing in frequency and complexity. By investing in a CDC now, we are equipping our country with the tools to mitigate risks before they escalate into national emergencies. As a government, we understand that public health is not just about individual wellbeing. It is also a matter of national security and economic stability. Without a healthy population, we do not have a productive workforce. Without that workforce, our economy suffers. Australians deserve a health system that is fit for the challenges of the 21st century. It is worth reflecting on what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“For too long, our system has relied on ad hoc arrangements, outdated legislation and decisions made by individual jurisdictions. Not only does this increase the risk of worse health outcomes, but it's also inefficient, requiring each state and territory to come up with their own responses, to duplicate resources and to come up with their own policy solutions. This centre is designed to close those gaps. It will unite expertise in epidemiology, infectious diseases, data science and public communication under one roof—one trusted message for all Australians. Of course, we hope there will never be another pandemic, but, while we can hope for the best, we also have a responsibility to prepare for the worst. We cannot afford to wait for the next outbreak to build the infrastructure and expertise we need.”
“Responses were fragmented, data often failed to move between jurisdictions, and the absence of a single authoritative national body meant that at times communities were uncertain about the facts. The rampant spread of misinformation, combined with the lack of a national source of truth, left Australians vulnerable and confused. It was only when the government announced an independent COVID-19 response inquiry that these systematic failures were laid bare. That inquiry's central recommendation was the establishment of this centre. We are here today to act on those findings. A modern public health agency must be able to identify threats early, share data seamlessly across borders and coordinate responses with speed and efficiency.”
“We must acknowledge that delayed action in areas like acquiring sufficient vaccine stock and inconsistent responses between states cost lives and erode public confidence in the government. Establishing a centre for disease control is about addressing those shortcomings by creating a permanent institution that can detect risks, coordinate responses and better prepare us for future threats. It is about establishing and delivering on our responsibility to protect Australians' health, both now and for generations to come. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed deep-rooted weaknesses in our ability to respond to public national health emergencies. The failures in leadership by the Morrison government let the burden fall on the states.”
“It will publish the recommendations it provides to governments, allowing the public to see the evidence behind decisions and building trust in the advice given. This legislation is about protecting Australians and strengthening our resilience for whatever health challenges lie ahead. COVID-19 was a difficult time for a lot of Australians. Sometimes there is a reluctance to talk about it. However, as a progressive government, we always accept the responsibility of planning for the future. We do not bury our heads in the sand. We ensure that we are always striving to make sure that the government can better support the Australian public. This means examining this challenging period with clear eyes and identifying where mistakes were made and where we can do better.”
“The centre will be independent and protected from politicisation. Its leadership will rest with the director-general, supported by an advisory council comprising experts who will guide priorities and offer sound recommendations. The centre will not operate in isolation. It will work in close partnership with the states, territories and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. This collaboration ensures no state or territory is left behind and that all Australians benefit from consistent, science-driven public health strategies. Importantly, this bill will streamline the way public health data is collected, linked and shared across jurisdictions. Strong and coordinated data systems mean that emerging trends can be identified faster and responded to more effectively. Transparency will also be a cornerstone of the centre's work.”
“I rise to speak on the Australian Centre for Disease Control Bill 2025. This is a significant measure in strengthening our nation's public health system. The bill establishes the Australian Centre for Disease Control, a dedicated and independent Commonwealth entity. It fulfils a key election commitment of the Albanese Labor government and responds to the pressing need to prepare our country for future health emergencies. Experts, consumer groups and the independent COVID-19 response inquiry have long called for this reform, and today we can say we have listened and we are delivering. This legislation gives Australians confidence that future health emergencies will be managed by a modern, nationally coordinated body that can provide authoritative, evidence-based public health advice.”
“While others might seek to divide us for political gain, the Labor government chooses unity over division and inclusion over fear. We believe that every Australian, whatever their race or religion and wherever they or their parents were born, should be able to feel safe, respected and proud to call this country home. That is the Labor way.”
“Our government is supporting multiculturalism and inclusion through $200,000 of local funding delivered through the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse for local cultural festivals. This includes $150,000 of support for the Box Hill Lunar New Year Festival, one of the largest and most loved multicultural events in Victoria. Each year the festival attracts more than 100,000 people, who come together to celebrate culture, family and community. A further $50,000 will go to the Manningham Asian Cultural Festival, a newer celebration in the northern part of the electorate that is already making its mark with vibrant music, delicious food and energetic performances. Events like local festivals are so important in building understanding and connection between cultures.”
“It will ensure that our frameworks respond to emerging challenges and continue to promote social cohesion and mutual respect. We're also committing $15 million to support community language schools across the country. This investment supports over 600 community language schools, helping more than 90,000 students to learn and preserve 84 different languages spoken in our communities. In addition, we are investing an additional $25 million to expand access to community language education. These programs are about more than just learning a language. They are about passing on culture, history and identity from one generation to the next. In my own electorate of Menzies, we have already seen this commitment in action.”
“This elevation shows how seriously this government takes its responsibility to multicultural Australia. The creation of the Office for Multicultural Affairs within government further strengthens our ability to coordinate policy and deliver tangible outcomes across all levels of government—federal, state and local. They are not just symbolic gestures. They are structural changes designed to ensure that multicultural policy is embedded in the heart of decision-making. They mean that the experiences, challenges and aspirations of multicultural communities will be heard where it matters most—in the cabinet. We have also initiated the 2024 Multicultural Framework Review—the first in-depth examination of Australia's multicultural policies and programs in 50 years. This review will help shape the next generation of multicultural policy.”
“You only need to look at this side of the House, particularly at the new members of parliament, to see that our government is committed to reflecting the diversity of our community. We are one of the most successful multicultural countries on earth, and this did not happen by accident. It has been shaped by decades of policy, by communities who have worked tirelessly and by Labor governments who have recognised the value of inclusion and social cohesion. Last week I was fortunate to have the Minister for Multicultural Affairs in Menzies, the electorate I'm lucky enough to represent, meeting with some of our local business associations and owners. For the first time, this government has appointed a dedicated minister for multicultural affairs to cabinet.”
“I rise to speak on the Albanese Labor government's commitment to multicultural Australia. When we on this side speak about multicultural Australia, we are not treating minorities as an afterthought when we make policy. We govern for modern Australia in all its diversity and richness. We govern for all Australians, regardless of their background. Australia has always been a multicultural country. Aboriginal Australia has a rich diversity of nations, with over 250 mobs. Australia has been built by British settlers, Chinese miners, Afghan cameleers, Sikh Anzacs and Italian, Greek and Indian migrants—people from every country on earth. The Albanese Labor government believes that Australia's diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It brings ingenuity, wisdom, fresh perspectives and competition. It expands the marketplace of ideas.”
“We should also celebrate the parents who volunteer on school councils, at fates, on kinder committees and at weekend sports days. Whether in primary or secondary schools or in kinders, these parents make their schools and communities stronger, their children's experiences richer and their communities more welcoming. I was also fortunate to join a local plant-a-tree day alongside the Friends of Wurundjeri in Whitehorse and Manningham. It was a reminder that volunteers are not only building a community here but also safeguarding the future of our environment. (Time expired) Federation Chamber adjourned at 13 : 31”
“In the last few years the Pink Ladies have raised more than $100,000 with the McGrath Foundation to fight breast cancer. Last Saturday they held a fantastic fundraiser concert to raise awareness of testicular, prostate and lung cancer. Survivors played music and shared some classic tunes, and also share their stories to encourage men to better look after their health and get themselves checked. Well done to the Pink Ladies. Doncare are an essential part of our community that bring a unique, local, holistic approach to providing social supports. They provide counselling, emergency relief, family violence services and social supports for seniors. Crucial to this are their volunteers, particularly in their wonderful community op shops.”
“Still, it was as joy to see how cricket continues to thrive locally, with volunteers dedicating countless hours to training, fundraising and mentoring the next generation. Sport is only one part of the volunteer landscape in Menzies. Beyond the playing fields and courts, I also want to acknowledge the extraordinary work of our community services. Carenet provides essential support in the area of food security and access. Their volunteers are on the frontline, ensuring that no family goes without when times are tough. I was blown away by the scale of their operation, the enthusiasm of the volunteers and how they can do so much with so little. Last weekend I was again at Warrandyte sporting club, this time to attend an event organised by some local leaders, the Pink Ladies.”
“I even tried some shooting, although I confess that I have a new appreciation for the difficulty of shooting without a backboard. I missed a lot more shots than I got in—so many. What was impressive were the volunteer coaches and players who keep the club running week after week. The Warrandyte Football Club received $3,000, and I was fortunate enough to be present for their last game before the finals. They won that match and were successful in their semi-final matches. I wish them luck in the upcoming finals. Go Bloods! Clubs like theirs bring families together, and their success on the field keeps the community spirit alive. I also met with the Warrandyte Cricket Club. I was almost roped into fielding practice, as they prepared for their season. I can assure you, I would not have lasted long in the slips.”
“Although I try to do a bit of exercise and keep myself fit, I'm pretty bad at sport. This has not stopped me, however, from embarrassing myself and getting involved in our local sports community. In fact, it has been a pleasure to spend time with so many of our clubs, seeing firsthand the way volunteers make sport accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. I was delighted to visit the at the Koonung Comets Basketball Club, who received a grant of $3,000. I was fortunate to visit during a training session and see firsthand the enthusiasm, fun, and community amongst the players and volunteers. In Warrandyte, I had the privilege of popping down to Warrandyte Reserve and meeting with the Warrandyte Sporting Club. There, I met with the Warrandyte Netball Club, who received a volunteer grant of $1,000.”
“I rise today to speak about the volunteers in Menzies, who are the lifeblood of our community. So much of what we enjoy and rely on in our neighbourhoods exist because of their generosity, time and commitment. From our sporting clubs and schools to community services and environmental groups, volunteers from the backbone of civic life in Menzies. Over the past few months, I've had the privilege of visiting a number of these organisations, each of which reflects the vibrancy and diversity of our electorate. Thanks to the support of the Albanese Labor government, we have been able to assist many of these groups through the Volunteer Grants program. These grants make a very real difference, giving community organisations the tools and resources they need to keep operating and recruiting volunteers. I must admit something.”
“My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government strengthening Medicare? Why is it important to listen to a range of voices in shaping health policy after a decade of cuts and neglect?”
“Indeed, I recognise that they have been calling for this last measure for some time. During the recent conflict in the Middle East, both between Iran and Israel and in Gaza, our first priorities as a government have been to take concrete actions to achieve peace and safeguard social cohesion in Australia. That a foreign government would seek to sow division locally is an egregious attack on the social fabric of our country, deserving of the strong and decisive response taken by this government. But let me be clear: our local diverse communities should never suffer because of the actions of foreign governments in the countries in which they were born. In the case of the Iranian community, many have fled the totalitarian, authoritarian Iranian regime and are its fiercest critics. (Time expired)”
“Menzies is home to the largest Iranian community in Australia. I am proud to represent such a vibrant community, who contribute so much to the life of our electorate. I stand today to make clear that the actions of the Iranian regime in orchestrating vile attacks on the Australian Jewish community do not reflect the beliefs of the overwhelming majority of the Iranian diaspora in Australia. I have reached out to community leaders since the government's announcement. Like me, they are appalled that the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would use proxies in the form of criminal gangs to stoke hatred towards and fear amongst the Australian Jewish community. They welcome the government's moves to expel the Iranian ambassador and list the IRGC as a terrorist organisation.”
“We are talking about government secrecy. The member for Berowra was in government during the worst of it. In 2019, we found that $100 million in community sports grants were allocated to mates ahead of the federal election—the famous colour coded spreadsheets directed at marginal seats. It was money meant for kids, clubs communities that was diverted for political gain. The Albanese Labor government is getting on with making government more transparent. (Time expired)”
“Our reforms will ensure that genuine freedom-of-information requests are prioritised, that anonymous freedom-of-information requests are no longer permitted and that the scheme itself remains sustainable and fit for purpose in an age of increasingly vexatious requests. Those opposite, in bringing this question, show an incredible amount of hypocrisy. Let's talk about transparency in the last Liberal government. I referred to the robodebt scheme, introduced under the Abbott government. Over 430,000 Australians were issued with debts totalling $1.7 billion—many of them falsely. Mind you, at the time, the government hid internal legal advice in 2014 and 2015 warning the scheme was unlawful. Documents showing the Morrison government's and other ministers' direct involvement were buried until the royal commission forced their release.”
“We've strengthened the Public Service Act to protect agency independence, and we are reforming the freedom-of-information system to ensure it works fairly and effectively. This stands in stark contrast to the coalition's culture of hidden and secret governments. The member for Berowra referred to our freedom-of-information reforms that the Attorney-General will introduce to this parliament. The current freedom-of-information system is 40 years old and no longer fit for purpose. Like so much of what the coalition clings to, it's well out of date. We are committed to transparency and a robust freedom-of-information regime, but freedom-of-information costs have been increasing exponentially. In 2023-24 financial year, they increased a significant amount—23 per cent. This is not sustainable, especially in an age of vexatious requests.”
“Beyond these reforms, we have also introduced stricter rules on grants to prevent rorting, reversed secrecy around National Cabinet to restore freedom-of-information accountability and legislated emissions reductions targets to bring credibility back to climate policy. Over nine years of government, the coalition stacked the Administrative Appeals Tribunal with so many unqualified party hacks that the only way to salvage this important essential function of reviewing government decisions was to abolish the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and put in its place the Administrative Review Tribunal, where members are appointed according to qualifications and merit. We've also re-established the Administrative Review Council—a key robodebt recommendation.”
“It wasn't until we came to government that this important measure was put in place to ensure integrity in our federal system of government. After years of secrecy and inaction under the coalition, the National Anti-Corruption Commission represents a strong commitment to integrity in government. Equally, in our first term, we announced the robodebt royal commission. This inquiry showed the depth of the coalition's culture of secrecy and contempt of Australians. Only under Labor were $1.7 billion repaid to more than 430,000 victims of this illegal scheme, confirming that we put people first, not profits.”
“The Albanese Labor government has taken significant steps to restore transparency and trust in government. We recognise how important this is in an era of increasing misinformation and polarisation, particularly at the fringes of society, and as usual we see those opposite peddle that fear and misinformation. We have established new standards of transparency and accountability. We created the National Anti-Corruption Commission in July 2023. For the first time at the federal level, we have an independent watchdog with broad powers to investigate serious and systematic corruption across ministers, MPs, staffers, public servants and contractors. Those opposite went to the 2019 election promising a national anticorruption commission, and then they left the Australian people waiting for three long years.”
“This is an important motion that speaks to the government and what we are doing to invest in research and best-practice development in the prevention space.”
“Having volunteered in a community legal centre, I know what a vital role they play in preventing family violence. Most of the cases that came through the door of Fitzroy Legal Service, where I volunteered, related to family violence, and the urgency of the issue and how endemic family violence is throughout our communities was clear. Having worked at the County Court of Victoria, I also note that the courts themselves are sometimes used to enact systems abuse on victim-survivors through the use of applications against family violence intervention orders and personal safety intervention orders. I know that, given the scale of this problem, the community groups who offer family violence support in my community alone are too numerous to name. I thank them for the sensitivity and care they show to so many vulnerable people in Menzies.”
“We've worked with state and territory governments around the country through our national plan to end violence against women and children to ensure we invest in evidence based, high-quality and specialised services that meet local needs. Within the community I'm lucky enough to represent, there are several services that are dedicated to prevention, early intervention and response to family and domestic violence who help thousands of locals get the support they need. In particular, I want to acknowledge the work of our community health centres Doncare Community Services and Eastern Community Legal Centre, as well as the workforce at the Orange Door in Box Hill, who facilitate the critical links between victim-survivors and the people who help them.”
“The actions we have taken include introducing 10 days of paid family violence leave, permanent leaving-violence payments and delivering on our election commitment to ensure the social security system cannot be weaponised against women experiencing family violence. Just this week, the Minister for Social Services week announced that there can be compassionate waivers for women who have had debts accrued against them due to financial and systems abuse. We have also strengthened access to legal support through our National Access to Justice Partnership 2025-30, which invests in community legal services, like the Eastern Community Legal Centre, in my electorate of Menzies. We've invested in dedicated social and affordable housing for victim-survivors so that women and children know they have a safe place to go.”
“This is in addition to $3.9 billion for legal assistance frontline services announced at the 6 September national cabinet on gender based violence as well as billions in funding for housing for victims of family and domestic violence who are looking for emergency accommodation. This investment reflects the priorities of a government that understands the scale and the depth of this crisis. Properly addressing family violence means understanding the number of ways in which it affects victim-survivors. The consequences of abuse can be felt far beyond immediate physical risks, impacting women and children financially, legally and psychologically. That is why our government has been focused on ensuring that women have the support and resources to be safe.”
“The Albanese Labor government is acting with the urgency that is required to tackle this pervasive issue. We all have a role to play when it comes to preventing violence against women, but is it us as men who need to step up and speak up, because the evidence tells us that the key driver of family violence is gender inequality. Since coming to government, we have invested over $4 billion in preventing and responding to family, sexual and domestic violence; strengthening services for women; providing tailored support to help children and young people heal and recover; and driving change to men's violence-enabling behaviour.”
“Thank you to the member for Wentworth for moving this motion acknowledging the actions taken by the government in this important space of addressing family violence. I rise today because urgent action is required to stop violence against women and children. Every nine days, a man in Australia kills his female partner. One in four women in Australia have experienced intimate partner violence since the age of 15. Each week, a woman is killed by a man's use of violence—almost always a man she knows. They are young women whose lives were only beginning and older women with so much to look forward to, and so many more women live with lasting injuries and trauma, particularly because of men who are making a choice to use violence. But it doesn't need to be this way. We can prevent this violence.”
“That's real money in the pockets of some of our lowest paid workers. The same ABS release shows that employment has continued to grow at record pace. Since May 2022, we have seen more than 1.1 million new jobs created. That represents an increase of 8.6 per cent in total employment, a faster rate of job growth than any other major advanced economy. These numbers confirm what Australians are seeing in their communities: more people in work and more families benefiting from secure income thanks to the reforms of the Albanese Labor government. (Time expired)”
“Other independent data shows the success of our workplace reforms and wider agenda in guiding Australia through difficult times while increasing wages and keeping unemployment low. The latest data from the ABS shows that real wages have risen for seven consecutive quarters. This is the strongest annual wage growth in real terms in five years and the longest period of consistent growth above 0.7 per cent in a decade. Average annual wages are growing at 3.7 per cent, compared with just 2.2 per cent under our predecessors. We have also delivered four consecutive increases to the minimum wage, benefiting 2.2 million of Australia's lowest paid workers. In just three years, the national minimum wage has increased by $4.62 per hour. That's $175 a week or more than $9,000 a year.”
“Despite this evidence in the latest review, the coalition are still desperately trying to discredit our legislation because they want to axe the very laws that have seen workers get pay rises. We all remember Senator Michaelia Cash declaring that these laws were the most radical she had ever seen. If it's radical to have the highest number of employees on workplace agreements since enterprise bargaining began in 1991, if it's radical to have the strongest rate of annual wage growth in five years, if it's radical to have the gender pay gap hitting a historic low of 11.5 per cent in the latest ABS statistics and if it's radical to have the unemployment rate remaining low while workplace participation stays high then we will proudly accept the badge of being radical. This is what happens when governments deliver for workers.”
“Through our closing loopholes laws, which ensure labour hire workers are not paid less than permanent employees for the same work, we have improved wages for people on insecure contracts and also disincentivised dodgy employers from outsourcing to labour hire companies to save themselves money on wages and conditions. We have criminalised intentional wage theft. An employee who puts their hand in the till can be charged with a criminal offence. In the same way, a boss who knowingly takes money out of their worker's pay packet should be criminalised. We have introduced the right to disconnect so workers can properly clock off and enjoy a decent work-life balance.”
“Collective bargaining has increased significantly, with the number of employees covered by agreements rising from about 1.72 million in September 2022 to around 2.6 million by March 2025. This is an increase of approximately 880,000 workers. This includes workers across multiple employers, who, thanks to this government, are now covered by enterprise bargaining. Unions and employees can bargain for improved wages and conditions, particularly for those in traditionally feminised industries, like aged care and child care. Importantly, the act has made a substantial contribution to improving outcomes for women, with the gender pay gap now at its lowest level since records began.”
“I rise today to acknowledge the secure jobs, better pay review, which demonstrates the success of the ambitious reforms the Albanese Labor government implemented in our first term. The report shows that the workplace changes that we legislated are delivering for Australians. In December 2022, we introduced the secure jobs, better pay act to ensure workplace rules are fair and that the benefits of a growing economy are shared with every Australian. These reforms were designed to lift wages, strengthen job security, improve enterprise bargaining and address the gender pay gap. The final independent review of the act has confirmed that these reforms are already delivering real outcomes.”
“These funds will go towards equipment to support the amazing SES volunteers, who are always one of the first on the scene during floods, fires, fallen tree branches and other emergencies that happen in the area. It was an unforgettable night. People hit the dance floor early, and we were treated to a James Bond themed video presentation, giving the Manningham SES the opportunity to showcase their acting skills. Congratulations to Manningham SES. I also rise to talk about one of the most pressing generational challenges facing the people of Menzies, which is housing. We are bringing forward a five per cent deposit guarantee scheme to ensure that young people across Menzies will be able to get into their first home sooner.”
“They conduct activities five days a week, ranging from Chinese opera and mahjong to tai chi and traditional and contemporary dancing. They also put on an affordable and delicious lunch. It was clear to me how much joy and community the attendees get out of these activities. I was fortunate to narrowly avoid being dragged into singing karaoke by some of the very spirited participants! Thank you to Selene, Stella and other volunteer community members for bringing so much happiness to the older Australians in my community. I'd also like to congratulate Manningham SES and their wonderful volunteer community committee on raising $70,000 at their recent Thunderball event.”
“This scheme will better allow us to make the most of our abundant renewable energy and will take pressure off the grid. I also popped into Warrandyte Football Club, who were successful in the recent volunteer community grants program, and saw the Bloods play their semifinal match amongst the beautiful gumtrees at Warrandyte Reserve. I'd like to congratulate the seniors, reserves and under-19s for making it into the grand finals. Go Bloods! Finally, recently I was also lucky enough to visit the Manningham Chinese Senior Citizens Association, another successful recipient of the volunteer community grants, who received a grant of around $2,000. This is one of the largest social clubs in Menzies, with more than 1,000 members, and is also one of the most active.”
“Recently I was out doorknocking in Warrandyte, a beautiful, bushy part of the electorate that I'm fortunate to represent. It's a community that understands the importance of preserving our environment and addressing climate change. I knocked on door after door where people said they were looking forward to accessing the government's solar home battery scheme, to save money on their power bills and to play their part in reducing Australia's emissions. The 30 per cent discount provided is enough of an incentive for them to take up the step of investing in a home battery. It's this kind of demand that means that almost 40,000 households nationally have taken up the solar home battery scheme. We already have the highest rates of rooftop solar in the world.”
“The stakes could not be higher, and the burden was too often carried by individual staff with little protection. I can say to my former colleagues with confidence that this bill will make a difference. This will give you the protection, reassurance and pride to do your jobs without fear. It sends a clear message that the government values you and that your safety will never be compromised simply for doing your duty. No public servant should ever fear violence or intimidation for doing their job serving the Australian people. Debate adjourned.”
“Take a Services Australia officer who was threatened by a client after delivering difficult news about a payment. Today, that officer may have to pursue their own legal remedy, recounting the horrific details, reliving the incident and facing their aggressor in court. Under this bill, the Commonwealth would step in, protect that officer and pursue the order, sending a clear message of deterrence. When I was a public servant, I would hear horror stories from colleagues who were genuinely afraid to deliver news that a client would not accept, because of the repercussions that could follow when someone did not get the outcome they had hoped for. This was heightened by the fact that the matters they dealt with often involved the most desperate of circumstances.”
“The coalition knew that, had they been successful at the last election and ended up implementing this policy, it would have sent a signal to the private sector that this workplace flexibility would be wound back. It revealed their belief that workers cannot be trusted unless they are under the constant gaze of management. More than that, it revealed how out of touch they are with modern workplaces and modern employees, particularly those with families and caring responsibilities. The Australian people rejected this divisive attack on public servants, knowing that it was an attack on workers who deliver Centrelink, immigration, NDIS, veterans' affairs and so many other critical supports for the community. In practice, this bill will make it safer, fairer and more secure to work for the Commonwealth.”