Linda Burney (Barton, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We are blessed in my electorate of Barton to have a cohort of fantastic teachers. I have been taking the time to congratulate our longest serving teachers for their devotion to their work and for creating a bright future for students in their care. I was pleased to be able to present awards for long service in person at Danebank Hurstville. Some teachers have been there for over 37 years, and the smart, strong young women I met are a testament to their commitment.

As we come to the close of another year, I know that the joy of the festive season is tempered by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon. I continue to receive many emails and calls from constituents and have spoken to them in meetings. They express their collective grief; their horror at the sheer number of humanity lost; and the desperate need for a ceasefire. They are aware of the realities of international politics and diplomacy, but they are calling on their leaders to centre humanity and for Israel and Palestine to be equal partners on the global stage.

In this season of peace, joy and hope, may we all be the instruments for creating a more just and secure future for the world. I wish Barton residents and everyone here a very happy festive season and success and health in 2025.