CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms ROBERTS (Pearce) (09:33): The incorporated speech read as follows— I had the pleasure of visiting Pearsall Primary School in my electorate of Pearce last week for a very special morning alongside the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Milton Dick, and the local state member for Landsdale, Daniel Pastorelli. The morning began with a question that clearly mattered to the students: whether pineapple belonged on pizza.
The result was decisive—82-41. Pineapple did not belong on pizza. While I may not have agreed with the outcome, I certainly respected the students' democratic process, and it was a light-hearted reminder that even the youngest members of our community understood the importance of a fair vote.
Beyond the fun, the visit was an important opportunity for the students to learn firsthand about the role of the Speaker and the way Australia's democracy worked. For many of those children, it would have been the first time they had seen the parliament represented in such a direct and engaging way. Experiences like that help bring civics education to life in a way that classroom lessons alone could not.
One of the most memorable parts of the morning was watching the spectacle that was the students helping to unfurl the majestic flag, the size of a double-decker bus, that flies above Parliament House in Canberra. It was a proud moment for the school community and a powerful symbol of the connection between our local schools and our national institutions. That simple act carried great meaning.
It reminded all of us of the responsibilities we share in protecting our democracy, our values and our institutions for future generations. I believe it is incredibly important that young people understand not only how parliament works but also why it matters. Democracy relies on participation, respect, listening to others and valuing different points of view.
It is built on the idea that every voice counts. When children are given the chance to experience those values in action, they develop a stronger sense of citizenship and belonging. I want to thank the Speaker for taking the time to visit Pearsall Primary School and for helping to make the morning so memorable.
His presence gave the students a real insight into the role of the Speaker and the parliament he leads. I also thank Daniel Pastorelli MLA for joining us and for supporting such an important community event. My sincere thanks also go to the principal, Gary Payne, and the teachers and staff of Pearsall Primary School.
Their warmth, professionalism and commitment to their students was evident throughout the morning. They created an environment where the children felt confident to ask questions, take part and learn with enthusiasm. It was a wonderful reminder that our schools are not just places of learning but places where the values of our democracy are nurtured and strengthened.
At a time when democratic values must be protected and celebrated, the visit to Pearsall Primary School stood as a beautiful example of what that looked like in practice. I was proud to take part in the morning, and I know it left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.