(Community Recognition Statement, 22 March 2022, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I wish to thank Katherine McKernan for her leadership and commitment as CEO of Homelessness NSW ACT.

This work has been vital for the sector's advocacy and liaison with government, improving policy and service delivery for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. Katherine has helped unite and strengthen the sector following major upheavals with the Going Home Staying Home reforms, bringing together disparate organisations with different clients. The Industry Partnership program has trained and upskilled the workforce and industry development has been a priority and Katherine has facilitated active NSW sector participation in national campaigns and made sure that homelessness is back on government agendas. Katherine's guidance has been critical during a long period when housing costs have soared, social housing supply has stagnated or fallen, and the number of people with complex health and welfare needs who cannot afford housing a home has been ever-increasing. I have personally valued Katherine's insight and focus on solutions, and commend her more than seven years as Homelessness NSW CEO. I'm pleased that she will continue to contribute her skills and expertise at the Redfern Legal Centre.