STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms STEGGALL (Warringah) (13:33): Australia is off to a cracking start at the World Cup—and that makes us so proud, of course—with the two-nil win over Turkiye and huge effort against tournament hosts the United States. Congratulations to Connor Metcalfe and Nestory Irankunda, who both scored goals on their World Cup debuts. At a time when some seek to divide Australians by where they come from or what they believe, the Socceroos remind us that this country is strongest when we stand together.

We see it in packed pubs, school playgrounds, local sporting clubs and living rooms right across the country. This Socceroos team reflects modern Australia, one that represents families with roots from across the world, united by a shared commitment to our incredible nation. Nestory Irankunda's journey is a remarkable Australian story, as are so many others: born in a refugee camp in Tanzania after his family fled conflict in Burundi and now scoring for Australia on the world's biggest stage.

This is the Australia we celebrate—confident, open, united and proud of the people who help make this country what it is. Congratulations to the Socceroos, regardless of the results, not just for the goals, grit and performances but for reminding us of our real values and who we are when we at our very best. Thank you for being such phenomenal ambassadors for Australia.