Opinion pieces, speeches & transcripts

A secure future rests on a stronger democracy

March 13, 2019

As developed democracies face more complex policy challenges, their capacity to resolve them has been undermined. To make, and entrench, progressive reform we have to confront this wider problem of the quality of, and confidence in, our democracy.

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Speech: 2019 National Indigenous Education And Boarding Symposium

March 13, 2019

It’s a great privilege to be here today, to share Labor’s thinking on this important policy question, and to share in the wisdom that is in this room. I hope today can be the start of an ongoing dialogue, not just the giving of an address.

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Speech to City of Whittlesea Australia Day ceremony

January 26, 2019

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land we are gathered on, and pay my respects to the elders of the Wurundjeri people, past and present. Where we are today has always been, and will always be, Aboriginal land.

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Speech at National Conference on fast track reviews

December 17, 2018

Three years ago we had a tough conversation at the National Conference in Melbourne. Murray Watt, who is now a Senator, I’m not sure that’s a promotion mate, put forward a couple of motions that generated a big debate. I don’t think there is too many people who doubt that we emerged stronger from that conference stronger because we had that debate.

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Speech at National Conference on asylum motion

December 17, 2018

Thank you Wayne and thank you Shayne. I am very proud to second this motion and to support the work you have done to put this platform before the conference. Shayne, you deserve all of our support and appreciation. Because today we come together as a party to take some big steps forward...

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Interview with Fran Kelly, RN Breakfast, on loneliness

November 13, 2018

"...we know the extent of loneliness, and the report is also telling us about the consequences. Poor for general health, very poor for mental health. This is something that government has to respond to, if we’re serious about looking after Australians."

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