ADJOURNMENT

Ms ROBERTS (Pearce) (16:34): The incorporated speech read as follows— I rise today to recognise Blood Cancer Awareness Month this September and to share the story of Liam, a young member of the Pearce community whose experience reminds us of the extraordinary difference blood and stem cell donors can make. On 13 April this year, Liam was unexpectedly diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, or AML.

For Liam and his family, life changed in an instant. What followed was four rounds of chemotherapy, months of uncertainty and the immense challenge of preparing for a stem cell transplant. On 5 August, Liam received that transplant from a male donor of European background.

That donor was found internationally, after no suitable match could be identified through the Australian database. This is a confronting reminder that finding a compatible stem cell donor is not always straightforward—and that genetic background can affect a person's chances of finding a match. For Liam, that donor saved his life.

Stem Cell Donors Australia encourages eligible people aged between 17 and 35 to join the registry and provide a cheek swab. That small act may one day connect a healthy volunteer with a patient who has run out of options. Liam's journey also demonstrates the vital importance of blood and platelet donations.

To date, he has needed more than 40 bags of blood and between 20 and 30 bags of platelets to survive. Behind every one of those bags is a donor—someone who chose to make time and give something that cannot otherwise be bought or manufactured. In Pearce, we are fortunate to have a pop-up mobile blood donation centre at the Irene McCormack Catholic College in Butler every 12 weeks.

I encourage eligible constituents to make an appointment when the centre returns. I want to acknowledge the outstanding care Liam has received from our health services. His family has spoken with deep gratitude about the dedicated health professionals who have supported him throughout chemotherapy, transplantation and recovery.

Doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, laboratory staff, technicians, hospital support workers and volunteers all play a role in helping patients through the most difficult periods of their lives. Their expertise and compassion deserve our sincere thanks. I also acknowledge the important work of the Leukaemia Foundation and the research being undertaken in Western Australia.

Research gives families like Liam's hope—not only by improving treatment today but by building a future in which more people survive blood cancer and live well. That work must continue. The Leukaemia Foundation is calling for 'A Fair Go' for blood cancer patients, including an expanded pool of stem cell donors in Australia.

No Australian should face reduced treatment opportunities because they cannot find a suitable donor. Expanding the registry means improving the chances for patients from a wider range of cultural and genetic backgrounds. Finally, I recognise Liam's family, friends and the broader Pearce community.

When Liam's brother ran a half marathon to raise funds to help Liam get back on his feet after treatment, the community rallied behind him. People gave their time, money, encouragement and practical support. To Liam: we are thinking of you and cheering you on.

To your family: thank you for sharing your story and turning a deeply personal experience into an opportunity to help others. This September, I ask everyone in Pearce to consider three simple actions: first, if you are eligible, donate blood or platelets; second, if you meet the requirements, consider joining the stem cell donor registry; third, share the message with your family, friends, workplace, sporting club or community group.

World Leukaemia Day falls on 4 September. Let us use that day—and the whole of Blood Cancer Awareness Month—to remember that lifesaving care depends not only on hospitals and medical expertise but also on the generosity of ordinary Australians. A blood donation can help someone through treatment.

A platelet donation can help someone survive the next critical day. A stem cell donation can give someone the chance to live. Liam's story shows what is possible when healthcare workers, researchers, donors, families and communities come together.

I commend Liam and his family, I thank the health professionals who have cared for him, and I acknowledge the generosity of the Pearce community. I urge every eligible Australian to consider giving the gift of life. Thank you.