Ross Vasta (Bonner, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Did you know that over five million Australians are volunteers? That's five million individuals who have decided to generously commit their time and effort to serving others and making our community a better place. In my electorate of Bonner, we have hundreds of volunteer organisations. To anyone who sacrifices their own time to improve the lives of others, I say thank you. From MacKenzie Bushcare to our Bayside's Coast Guard, your generosity and commitment is valued and appreciated. I'm proud to have supported many of our local groups by providing funding through the Volunteer Grants program.

Of the many outstanding Bonner volunteer organisations, I'd like to highlight one mission in particular, StandbyU Foundation. StandbyU is a not-for-profit that provides unique access points for people seeking refuge from domestic violence, abuse or loneliness. At their Westfield Helensvale location, the team has provided help for over 3,000 vulnerable people in just three years. I'm proud to have been able to partner with Chris and Michelle and the team at StandbyU to help them set up a shopfront in the heart of Westfield Mount Gravatt. Named Magnolia Place, the shopfront will be an easily accessible place for individuals or families to find safety and support, whatever their circumstances. Domestic violence is never okay, which is why I applaud StandbyU for their commitment to stop this scourge on a society. Again, to all the volunteers in in Bonner: thank you very much.