(Community Recognition Statement, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament) 

I acknowledge the innovative and creative new businesses that are emerging in my electorate and draw the attention of the House to the co-working spaces that are supporting new entrepreneurs. Last week, together with Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, I helped launch the Sydney Hub. The City of Sydney has provided buildings in Oxford Street and William Street to kick-start new businesses. The Sydney Hub is part of a national network that provides space for people to work in and learn from experts about business coaching, marketing, legal issues and cash flow. They provide a sense of community through a supportive network of other business owners who are also setting up small businesses.

The hub provides a financially viable foundation for new businesses and fosters innovation and collaboration. Australia has the highest density of co-working spaces per capita. An inaugural co-working conference was held in March and an industry body is being developed. I am proud that my electorate hosts this vital support for small business and I acknowledge those energetic and creative people working in the hub. They are the lifeblood of innovation and entrepreneurship in Sydney.