STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms BELYEA (Dunkley) (13:47): I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula for bringing together more than 40 student leaders from across seven schools last week. Most importantly, I want to thank the young people who shared their perspectives so openly and honestly. What stood out was not only the challenges facing young people but the thoughtfulness of their ideas and their determination to help shape solutions.

Students spoke about the rising cost of living, housing affordability, education equity, mental health, job security and feeling disconnected from the political system. These are real concerns affecting decisions about study, work, wellbeing and future aspirations. Many express concerns that milestones previous generations took for granted, such as homeownership, financial independence, access to affordable university, education and secure employment are becoming increasingly difficult to achieve.

As the federal member for Dunkley, I am proud of the work this government is doing to give our young people a fair go through tax reform, housing reform, increasing minimum wages and making free TAFE permanent. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow but they are important contributors today. Their voices and aspirations matter, and I will continue advocating to ensure they are heard.