Rex Patrick (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

Today, as part of Youth Voice in Parliament Week, I deliver Shaziyeh Samadi's speech.

In 20 years' time I hope that Australia continues to be a place of equality; where people treat each other with respect and kindness.

I value the way people treat each other, and the way the Government treats people because it is so different to the way it was in my home country (Afghanistan).

When I lived in Afghanistan I could not study or go outside alone; women do not have the same rights as men. Australia gives women and girls the opportunity to study and work.

I am excited for my future and what I can achieve in the next 20 years in Australia and hope to be a businesswoman one day.

I hope that Australia continues to provide these opportunities to everyone.

I hope that in 20 years every city in Australia has a high school that operates the same way as Thebarton Senior College. Many young people arrive in Australia when they are past the age of being able to attend mainstream schools, or experience barriers to education that mean they miss out and might want to study again when they are a bit older. Being able to attend a flexible but supportive school environment that treats them like adults, but at the same time gives them a supportive school experience is so beneficial.

I would also change the legal age that people can buy cigarettes, vapes and alcohol. I believe that 18 is too young, and that increasing the age would help prevent young people from accessing harmful substances.

Thank you, Shaziyeh, for your kind words.