Monique Ryan (Kooyong, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to highlight a remarkable initiative taking place on the streets of Kooyong: our community's English Corner. This regular event is a shining example of grassroots community engagement in which Chinese migrants and local residents come together to exchange languages, culture and friendship in a warm and welcoming way.

For our Chinese newcomers, English Corner offers an invaluable opportunity to practise their spoken English to build their confidence and to integrate more fully into Australian society. At the same time, it provides our local residents with the unique chance to learn Chinese and to gain deeper insights into the rich cultural heritage that our Chinese community brings to Kooyong. But this initiative is about more than just language learning. It's also about fostering mutual understanding, breaking down barriers and promoting social cohesion.

In coming together in this way, we're not just sharing words. We are building bridges and we are creating a stronger and more unified community. I commend the organisers and all of the participants of the Kooyong English Corner for their dedication to making our home a place where diversity is celebrated and cultural exchange thrives. Their efforts are a testament to the power of community driven initiatives in enriching our society.