STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr BURNS (Macnamara) (13:41): I'm here to amplify and raise the voice of Zephan, a 16-year-old in Macnamara, as part of the Raise Our Voice campaign. These are Zephan's words: I am addressing you all due to the spike in cost and lack of accessibility toward further, essential learning and education. An important necessity that must be taken into account.

For many young Australians, the cost of textbooks, compulsory digital platforms, and essential school materials has become a barrier to opportunity. Education should be the foundation for an equal society, but when access depends on how much a family can afford, we risk creating a system where only some can thrive. … … … The benefits stretch beyond the classroom.

When young people can focus on learning instead of worrying about affordability, we create a more skilled and innovative future workforce. That means stronger industries, a more resilient economy, and a society where talent and effort and hard work determine success, not wealth and/or societal status. Supporting affordable education resources is not just a policy choice; it is a responsibility.

By investing in learning today, the government is investing in fairness, opportunity, and a brighter Australia tomorrow. So I ask: if we can afford not to invest in our students, present and upcoming, can we really afford the future that follows? I thank Zephan for his contribution and for allowing me to read his words in this place.