(Community Recognition Statement, 4 February 2020, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney Electorate, I'd like to recognise the successful campaign for a new inner city high school by CLOSE - Community for Local Options for Secondary Education. This year saw the first students at this new school in Cleveland Street, on the site that CLOSE identified. More students will join as the building advances and new classes are added. After my election to Parliament, I worked with CLOSE to raise community concerns about the lack of places for inner city students at public high schools. CLOSE showed the increasing need, built community support and advocated for government investment in a new school.

The campaign met with and informed decision makers, contributed to the Inner City Schools Working Party, made sure that families contributed to the consultation, and energised families to look ahead, get involved and push for action. I acknowledge in particular key people in CLOSE like Skye Molyneux, Maggie Wojciechowska, Licia Heath and Isabel McIntosh. Thanks also to Lord Mayor Clover Moore and the City of Sydney for supporting the community's need for schools and education. CLOSE members should be very proud of this success and I commend this outstanding campaign.