Craig Thomson (Dobell, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to pay tribute to the Samaritans on the Central Coast and the wonderful job they are doing this winter. This winter in particular has already been harder than most on the Central Coast, with the number of people seeking assistance from the Samaritans emergency relief centres doubling; that has occurred already in this very short period. This has caused the Samaritans to give out food vouchers of only $20 instead of $60—which is the amount they were able to give out last time—because of the increased number of people who are seeking assistance.

In speaking in the Committee today, I am seeking to make sure that all Central Coast residents who can dig deep—who can provide blankets, food or cash—in relation to the Samaritans winter appeal do so. It is absolutely vital that we look after our fellow citizens on the Central Coast and support the Samaritans in the wonderful job they are doing. While food is an absolute priority, cash is also very important because it can be converted into vouchers; but warm clothes and blankets are also most welcome. The Central Coast, obviously because of its distance from Sydney, has been hit harder by petrol price increases than most other areas. This has led to the demand for help from the Samaritans being even greater. The Samaritans do a wonderful job, especially on the Central Coast, and they should be absolutely commended for it.

Ms Anna Burke (Chisholm, Deputy-Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Order! In accordance with standing order 193 the time for members’ statements has concluded.