Helen Polley (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Aged Care) Share this | Hansard source

I'd like to just say a few words to Jacqui, because I've been in this chamber the entire time that she has been sitting here with us. We've had lots of contributions acknowledging how strong she is and how courageous she is. She's a real person who represents Tasmanians. She represents them with her heart. But I have to say, too, and give her full credit: she has grown so much as an individual. She has contributed greatly to our debates. She has been a real person who has stood up, because she understands, as I do, what it's like to live on government benefits—to try and make ends meet; to actually have to make choices about whether or not you pay your rent on time or give your kids lunch money. They're real and everyday experiences that too many Australians are still having to face. But I also wanted to say, in terms of your contribution: whether it was in committee meetings or in negotiations with the government, and I know from our own side, that, as Doug Cameron said, you've always been very honest; your word is your bond. And I think you can leave this place with your head held high, because you have made a real contribution. I know you have a lot of support in Tasmania and I'm sure, now that you've well and truly found your voice at a political level, we haven't heard the last of you.

I want to wish you and your family the best. You have been very open and very honest with the difficulties that you and your family have worked through together. On behalf of Tasmanian Labor senators, I pay tribute to you for everything you've contributed here.