Address to the Federation Chamber, Adjournment

Thursday 7 November 2024

The ACT election produced a fantastic outcome for the ACT and the residents of my electorate of Bean. Congratulations to Chief Minister Andrew Barr and all his team on their re-election and a renewed mandate. I'm pleased that two new Labor MLAs were elected to the ACT, to the assembly, to represent the division of Brindabella, which overlaps the southernmost part of Bean, from Kambah to Banks, Tharwa and beyond. Caitlin Tough, who I've known for many years, and Taimus Werner-Gibbings were both elected for the first time. The southside having two new, fresh, energetic MLAs to represent Tuggeranong and surrounds is welcomed. I'm looking forward to working with both these impressive new MLAs to deliver great outcomes for our community.

I thank the outgoing Labor MLAs Joy Burch and Mick Gentleman for all their efforts over a long period of service to the southside. I'm also delighted that the residents of the division of Murrumbidgee, which overlaps with the Woden and Molonglo Valley parts of Bean, returned to the assembly the Labor MLAs Marisa Paterson and Chris Steel. I've worked constructively with both these hardworking members over the past four years, and I'm keen to renew our work together.

To the unsuccessful candidates at the election, I express my commiserations. The Hare-Clarke electoral system is a cruel beast. All the candidates should be proud of their efforts.