Tania Lawrence (Hasluck, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

It's been one year since we were elected to this place and formed a new government. Reflecting on this government's achievements, I start by asking myself: what do we need for a progressive, fair, functioning society in 2023? We need trust in government, an educated population, a healthy population, a safety net to help those who need help, gender equity, action on climate change, investment in the future and pride in our country.

To restore trust in government, we have legislated the National Anti-Corruption Commission. In education, we have provided for 300,000 fee-free TAFE places. In health, we have cheaper medicines and record investment in Medicare. We have supported record wage rises for aged-care workers and for those on a minimum wage, cheaper child care for millions of families, and gender-sensitive workplace and health system changes to address systemic inequity. Facing climate change square on, we have legislated targets, a safeguard mechanism with teeth and the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund, to capitalise on the opportunity that a green energy economy presents. We have invested in local infrastructure and the NBN, as well as in the arts, so that Australian stories can be told. And, while we are renovating a neglected nation at home, our Prime Minister, foreign minister, trade minister and others are making us proud again on the international stage. (Time expired)

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