Christmas Message 2011
"What is the best and worst part of your job?" was the question from a Year 7 student leader recently.
A timely question given the end of the year: 2012 is already shaping up to be a challenging and busy year as 9 March 2013 is the set date for the next State election, holding the promise for a change of government for the people of WA.
It is easy to answer what is the best part of my job; being embraced by different communities as their representative giving me a small insight into the daily lives of the people that make up the electorate of Nollamara.
But what does that mean in 2011: Well it can be working with Our Lady of Lourdes School P & C in Nollamara to successfully keep their cross walk attendant on the busiest street in the area (Rob Johnson what were you thinking?).
It has been lobbying on increasing the supply of adequate, affordable and accessible housing. This included sponsoring a community housing forum. One success was achieved through taking a grievance to the Minister for Housing when a constituent was removed from the waiting list. He was reinstated on the waiting list and housed soon after.
Supporting the Nollamara Westminster Action Group to continue to do their good work in our community including assisting them in their endeavours to establish a community garden in their local area (stay tuned).
Promoting safety of our children through working with Nollamara Primary School, the City of Stirling and Kidsafe on car restraints with a 'colour in' competition, a school assembly, and a car fitting service at the local shops.
Organising with Kevin Rudd's office for him to meet with the Southern Sudanese Community - to recognise their efforts in establishing the newest nation on Earth, the Republic of Southern Sudan.
A highlight of my year was the opportunity to participate in the Turkey ANZAC Study Tour with the Intercultural Harmony Society. I have posted the report on my trip (with photos) here.
In my inaugural speech in 2008 I spoke of my commitment to removing discrimination against workers over 65 from the Workers Compensation Act. It was with a sense of pride that I was a part of a community campaign that achieved this.
Another lesson in the effectiveness of community campaigns saw the delivery of the long awaited Mirrabooka Ave/Reid Highway overpass - a key road safety issue addressed and a lesson to all of us - keep our voices loud they will be heard.
I am increasingly aware that people in our community are victims of the 'two speed' economy. People are doing it tough, with the massive increases in WA utility prices and other fees. I am grateful for the great work of the many agencies in the area in assisting those adversely affected to manage as best they can.
Given this, the Labor WA Jobs campaign has resonated, as people call on us as legislators to ensure that all sections of the community see the benefits of the boom for themselves and training opportunities for their children. The community also believes in maintaining public provision of our essential services in the face of privatisation of hospitals under this Liberal Government. These debates on fundamentals have made for a lively Parliamentary year.
Along with the 'Enough is Enough', 'In Public Hands' and 'WA Jobs from WA Resources' Labor campaigns, the mining of Uranium will be a major issue of difference in the lead up to the 2013 election. Eric Ripper and Labor have strengthened our opposition to the mining of Uranium at the last State Conference as we strongly believe the long term health and wellbeing consequences for our community outweigh any economic benefits. Despite the media rhetoric there are major differences between a Labor and Liberal Government in protecting the health and welfare of our community.
I would like to thank my staff for their good work this year. I look forward to working with you all in 2012 on these and other issues in our community and wish you all the best for Christmas and the New Year.
p.s. The worst thing is thinking about what to wear to work every morning - I was previously a t-shirt and jeans girl - oh and Liberals. 