STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr LAXALE (Bennelong) (13:31): Australian multiculturalism is the backbone of modern Australia, and one of our most multicultural teams and one of our most multicultural sports is soon to pull on the green and gold for Australia at the FIFA World Cup. The Socceroos have always been great representatives of our country, and once again this year when they hit the field they'll represent Australia in its truest sense.

We've got players with backgrounds from Burundi, Zimbabwe, Croatia and South Sudan and of course those born here. Many of the 26 players are migrants or descendants of them. The 2026 Socceroos are a microcosm of modern, multicultural Australia.

They hold a special place in my heart because when I cheer them on I see a reflection of the diverse communities across this country, just like the one I grew up in. This diversity is integral to Australia's identity. We are home to people from so many cultures and backgrounds, and that is something we should all celebrate.

One of our best Australian values is our ability to welcome those from abroad and to celebrate their culture and customs together. This value is something we can all be proud of. I'm so excited to watch Australia come together as we cheer on this fantastic team, who will trounce the Turkish, annihilate the Americans and prevail against the Paraguayans.

To the 2026 Socceroos and head coach Tony Popovic, go well. Go the Socceroos!