Anne Stanley (Werriwa, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Liverpool City Council is in turmoil yet again. Last month, police were called to the council meeting, and yet again the mayor, along with some councillors, tried to remove the current CEO. It's a familiar story for those of us who live in the LGA. The names may change, but the end result is always the same—turmoil, embarrassment and the ratepayers footing the bill.

Liverpool City Council is rightly the subject of an investigation by the Office of Local Government, but I am more concerned about the behaviour of some present at this council meeting. Comments that were directed to the mayor and councillors because of their faith were appalling and completely unacceptable. Let me be clear: there is no space whatsoever for disrespect based on ethnicity or religion—not ever. Our community draws its strength from its diversity, particularly in south-west Sydney.

The past weeks and months have shown us the importance of actively fostering solidarity within our community. I am committed to this goal, and so is the Albanese government. We show this commitment every day in practical ways through lots of different grants and other support. I will never waver in my commitment to people's right to worship and practice one's faith free from vilification and discrimination. I note that it is not only antisemitism that is on the rise but Islamophobia as well, and nobody should be subject to that in our country.