Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Sunday, I had the absolute pleasure of attending Nowruz festivals at Dandenong Park in the neighbouring electorate of Bruce. I thank the Victorian Afghan Associations Network for successfully organising one of the biggest events within the Melbourne Afghan community. Nowruz embodies the spirit of gratitude for blessings and a hopeful, optimistic outlook for the future.

The new year is always a chance to reflect on the past year and set goals for the year ahead. Many at the event were pleased about the Albanese Labor government's work in delivering a better future for them and their families. When we came to government the Department of Home Affairs had a backlog of over a million visas, which has now been cut down by hundreds of thousands. We have also delivered on our election commitment to grant permanent protection pathways in this country for those on temporary protection and safe haven enterprise visas.

There is always more to do, and the Afghan community are confident that the Labor government will continue to look after them. Sal-e-nav mubarak, everyone!