World Prematurity Day

 Yesterday, 17 November, we marked World Prematurity Day. Every year around the world 15 million babies are born too soon and, sadly, one million of these babies do not make it. I am glad to be able to wear this badge and to show my support for families who have been affected by premature birth.…

Details

Clontarf Foundation

 I rise tonight to bring to the attention of the House a wonderful organisation that operates around Australia-the Clontarf Foundation. Clontarf was started in Western Australia approximately 15 years ago. It is a football academy specifically for Aboriginal boys. It was based originally around Australian Rules and for probably the first 10 or 12 years…

Details

Friendly Faces, Helping Hands

 I ask the Minister for Health to wait for 30 seconds. Today is one of those rare days when we get to recognise someone from my electorate in the parliament. In the gallery today we have Kelly Foran, who has started a website called Friendly Faces Helping Hands that helps people in a time of medical crisis…

Details

Constitutional Recognition of Local Government

I wish to speak on the report of the Joint Select Committee on the Constitutional Recognition of Local Government. I will say from the outset that I agree with the proposal and the words being proposed for a possible referendum, but I have been disappointed and somewhat frustrated at the way this has been handled.…

Details

Statement on Natural Disasters

 Mr COULTON (Parkes–The Nationals Chief Whip) (12:47): I too rise here this afternoon to speak about the natural disasters that happen around Australia, particularly the ones in my electorate of Parkes. To show the diversity of Australia but particularly of my electorate, I was dealing with floods and bushfires at the same time. Indeed, as I…

Details