CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Ms AMBIHAIPAHAR (Barton) (10:54): Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the jubilee community celebration hosted by the Moslem Alawi Youth Movement at Gough Whitlam Park. The event brought together local families, community leaders and representatives from across our diverse community in a wonderful celebration of culture and connection. The atmosphere was vibrant with food stalls and lots of charcoal barbecues, showing the rich diversity of our community and creating a welcoming space for people of all ages to come together.

The highlight for me was meeting some young people from the Al Sadiq College, whose passion and commitment to their communities was very inspiring. It was also a pleasure to connect with the officers from the Burwood Police Area Command and acknowledge the important work they do in supporting our community safety and building trust across our local neighbourhoods.

Events such as these remind us of the strength that comes from bringing people together and celebrating the diversity that makes Barton such a special place. As year 12 students for 2026 across Barton prepare to sit for their HSC examinations, I would like to wish every student the very best for the weeks ahead. Reaching this milestone is a result of years of hard work and dedication, and students should be very proud of all the work that they've been able to achieve.

I had the privilege of attending several year 12 graduation ceremonies in the recent weeks, including at Kingsgrove North High School, led by Principal Jim Mallios; St Mary and St Mina's Coptic Orthodox College, led by Principal Mary Nicola; and St George Christian School, led by Principal James Honor; Kingdom Culture Christian School, led by Principal Pavina Lee; St Ursula's College, led by Principal Vivienne Awad; and Bethany College, led by Principal Kristina Flanagan.

I thank these principals, their dedicated teaching staff and all school leadership across the electorate of Barton for the incredible role they play in supporting and guiding our next generation. This week I hosted the Barton charity and not-for-profit roundtable alongside Minister Andrew Leigh. Hosted at the St.

George Leagues Club, the roundtable brought together charities and not-for-profit organisations across the local area to discuss some of the challenges the sector is facing and to really explore opportunities for collaboration. Participants spoke about the rising cost of rent, the operational challenges, the increasing competition for grants and the need to build long-term financial stability.

We also discussed improving access to community infrastructure and shared spaces. It was a productive and insightful conversation, and I want to thank all the participants for the valuable contributions and the ongoing service to our community.