I reflected in Parliament on some of the significant moments in my electorate that have made my job as the local Member enjoyable and rewarding.

The Calwell community in which I represent inspires me. It is a strong, diverse, and spirited community, a wonderful community that rises to challenges in a way that makes me proud.

What a bunch of incredibly talented primary school students I have in my electorate! And I know this because of the entries my office received as part of my 2018 Christmas Card cover competition. The entries were so colourful, and impressive, I couldn’t decide on one winner – so I picked two.

I’d like to congratulate Aaron Alescio from Jacana School for Autism and Sarah El Hassan from Greenvale Primary school whose creative pieces both made it on the cover my 2018 Christmas cards that are currently being sent throughout the electorate.

Above: Aaron Alescio with his classmates at Jacana School For Autism

I've been passionate about gender equality since I was old enough to realise I was a woman, a girl. And I'm also the mother of a daughter, and I've spent most of my life trying to encourage and mentor young women.

As a woman, growing up with a migrant background, I've had to learn that overcoming gender stereotypes were very important to my ability to progress and develop to the fullest of my potential. 

Ali Kitinas joined my office on Wednesday 28 November, 2018 as part of the Girls Takeover Parliament day organised by Jasiri Australia and the Alannah Madeleine Foundation. 

The Girls Takeover Parliament program is inspiring young women and girls to be our national leaders. In a time where we need more women in politics, this youth-led program is inspiring leaders and girls to represent and stand up for gender equality. It’s starting conversations, changing futures and removing barriers. 

Above: With Ali Kitinas.