Minister O’Neil’s Visit
Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness, Clare O’Neil, visited Fraser last month to tour a new apartment complex of 85 homes that will be made available to some of our most vulnerable members of our community.
The complex is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to building 55 000 social and affordable homes for Australians in need through its Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF).
The HAFF has already seen construction commence on 757 social and affordable homes on Fraser and contracts have just been signed to construct an additional 19 homes in Albion and 19 in Braybrook.
It’s one of the ways in which this Government is working to reduce the stress of housing on locals. We’re building homes for renters, for first home buyers, and for women and children escaping domestic violence, because building more homes means more affordable housing for everyone.
Circus Tales
It’s been a while since I visited a circus and they’ve changed a great deal in that time. I was thrilled to visit Footscray’s Women’s Circus, a social circus that places community engagement and inclusivity at the heart of its work.
The Tiny Tots class was in full swing on the day of my visit and it was a joy to see tiny tightrope walkers and junior acrobats gaining confidence as they developed their skills. It a class that fosters courage and celebrates creativity and it looks like an absolute blast.
I’d like to thank Board Chair, Noni and Comms Manger, Hanne, and especially the fearless young participants for letting me be a part of the fun.
A Blessing
The early weeks of a new parliamentary term are always a whirlwind of activity. This term, with my additional ministerial responsibilities, has been especially busy. I’ve been meeting with a broad range of people across the country. From CEOs of the superannuation funds, entrusted with the retirement savings of millions of Australians, to residents affected by the terrible flooding on the central coast of NSW. Parliament has returned and trips to Canberra are back in the calendar.
But the electorate office in Sunshine is home base. No matter where I am in the country, electorate staff remain available to help constituents. It’s the most important work we do and it was an honour to have our workplace blessed by the young Đại Bi Quan Âm Lion Dance Team Quang Minh Temple.
These talented young dancers stopped traffic in Clarke Street as passers-by also stopped to enjoy the vibrant, energetic display. After passing the front desk, the dancers made their way into my office, blessing everything in their path.
As far I’m aware, Fraser is now home to the only electorate office in the state, if not the country, to have received such a blessing. I hope to see many more.
