Perin Davey (NSW, National Party, Shadow Minister for Water) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to make a presentation on the behalf of the Raise Our Voices in Parliament campaign. I'm very pleased to present this speech. This speech comes from Ariba, a 14-year-old girl who lives in Wagga Wagga, just down the road from me—well, 2½ hours drive away, but it's just down the road in my terms. Ariba says:

As a 14-year-old girl envisaging the future of Wagga Wagga in a decade, I desire a dynamic and secure society that offers abundant possibilities for young individuals such as myself to flourish. Here is my vision for the future of my community in Australia. I desire for Wagga to become a hub a young individuals are presented with abundant possibilities to acquire knowledge and develop personally. I aspire to delve into my passions and discover novel ones, be it in sports, music, arts or technology. Increasing the number of youth centres, creative spaces and after-school programs that are easily accessible would have a significant impact. Parliament can achieve this objective by augmenting financial resources allocated to youth programs, endorsing innovative endeavours and guaranteeing universal access to high-quality education and extracurricular activities for all young individuals. By focusing on these areas, parliament can help shape a future where young people in Wagga Wagga feel empowered, connected and ready to build a brighter future.

I want to correct congratulate Ariba for her desires and for her speech that she's provided to me. Ariba, I hope that your future becomes reality in a decade.