As the old saying goes, “A week is a long time in politics”. However in 2023, the parliamentary year began where it finished - with Labor’s weakness on border security. As Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, I led the Coalition’s attack back in February when it was revealed that Labor had left Australia without a key pillar of Operation Sovereign Borders for four months. It was a sign of things to come.
And while people smugglers started up again, Labor's economic plan was undermined when they admitted their changes to superannuation would hit more workers than first thought. Additionally, 10,000 Gold Coast families and small businesses were dealing with a tenth interest rate rise as Labor’s policies pushed inflation higher.
Australia’s cost of living crisis has so many human dimensions. Massive increases in electricity, private health insurance and rent was compounded by a fall in real wages.
As Shadow Minister for Child Protection and the Prevention of Family Violence, I was very proud to speak out on behalf of those who needed a voice and I remain committed to tackling domestic violence in Australia.
Labor delivered their second Budget in May but again failed to help those struggling with the cost of living crisis. It was clear at the time that their Budget would push interest rates higher which was the exact opposite of what Labor promised just one year earlier. I also took the opportunity to present hundreds of letters to the Minister for Infrastructure and update Canberra about the Light Rail Public meeting in Palm Beach while again pushing Labor to extend heavy rail from Varsity to the airport. I also spoke about health issues on the southern Gold Coast which are so important with so many families and retirees. I raise these important issues whenever I can. I also showcase our local community and recognise local organisations at every opportunity.
And of course in 2023, we all remember the Matildas doing their thing!
On a far more sombre note, I spoke in Parliament following the terrorist attack by Hamas where I voiced my support for our Jewish-Australian community here on the Gold Coast. October also saw the rejection of Labor’s divisive Voice referendum where the Australian people made it very clear that Labor was focusing on the wrong things and had lost its way.
To round out the parliamentary year I was honoured to be appointed to the Speakers’ Panel, which means I will Chair either the House or Federation Chambers.
So the parliamentary year ends as it began, with Labor’s inability to protect Australia’s borders and to keep us safe. I am pleased that the Coalition has at least been able to force Labor into introducing some stronger laws to protect us from foreign criminals.
All the very best,
