(1.04pm 23 October 2013, Community Recognition Statement, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

I congratulate the Surry Hills volunteers who joined me last Sunday to remove graffiti at Northcott and the surrounding public housing estate as part of Graffiti Removal Day, sponsored by Rotary Down Under.

We removed offensive and unsightly graffiti tags from people's homes. These tags contribute to tenants feeling unsafe. I applaud the hard work of all those who gave up their time, including local tenants and residents, as well as officers from Housing NSW, the Department of Attorney General and Justice and the City of Sydney. OzHarvest generously provided a barbecue for volunteers. It was a fabulous event with a positive outcome and impact on the community. It also reflects the vital ongoing role of the Housing NSW Surry Hills Community Development worker who co-ordinated the project. I look forward to more initiatives that encourage local residents' action to help their communities and to get to know each other.