Kerrynne Liddle (SA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Child Protection and the Prevention of Family Violence) Share this | Hansard source

As a new senator in this place, entering the Australian parliament in the same election cycle, in 2022, as me—I recall these words from Senator White:

For some people, their pathway in life is determined by the circumstances of their birth. Governments, however, have the power to open up new choices and opportunities that would otherwise remain out of reach. The power we have in this place to change lives is significant.

Very powerful words. They were part of Senator Linda White's first speech in the Senate, the same week I also gave my first speech. While we may not have shared the same views on many things, such as the Voice to Parliament referendum or the work of unions, she demonstrated respect and understanding of the importance of the work of the Senate. Senator White was of course right; there is power in this place to change lives, but it is more correct to say that it is people in this place and their commitment and capacity to do that that is the difference.

Senator White's time ended too soon. She didn't have to tell you that she was a no-BS person; you just knew it. She didn't have to tell you she would consider issues carefully; you just knew it. As debates heated up on many issues, Senator White was always respectful of alternate contributions but was clear in standing by her beliefs, without ambiguity. Discourse is found in bucketloads in this place. Discourse while remaining respectful and respected is rarer than you can imagine. But for Senator White it seemed a quality that came naturally.

My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, her friends, her loved ones and her staff, and to the Labor family. Rest in peace.