STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms MASCARENHAS (Swan) (16:34): Too many parents who are ready to work are held back by barriers outside of their control. Parent Pathways in Cannington in my electorate of Swan is helping change that. This service has helped 195 local parents and carers, many of whom are women and single parents from diverse backgrounds.

This support can range from child care to grocery costs to helping getting them their licence. On a visit, I met a fabulous mum called Taqwaa and her son. Taqwaa called the program 'a safe space where you're not judged'.

Her mentor, Caroline, helped her change her goals to best suit her life, and she now runs her own photography business, is studying to become an education assistant and is also doing jiu-jitsu. I also met Irene, a former medical researcher who spent two years feeling lost as a stay-at-home mum. Her mentor helped her get a laptop and finish her resume.

Today, Irene is a mentor herself and says that the best part of her job is watching her clients achieve their goals. I thank program manager Kelly, CEO Adrius and Irene and Taqwaa, who shared their inspiring stories with me. It's a practical way that the Albanese Labor government is investing in programs to ensure that we change the lives of people to make sure that they can get into paid work.