(Community Recognition Statement, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

I acknowledge the many new citizens that my electorate of Sydney has welcomed recently. Since joining Parliament I have participated in ceremonies conducted by the City of Sydney and Woollahra Municipal Council that have seen nearly 1,000 people become citizens in the past six months. 

Many have moved to Sydney, initially on 457 visas, making great contributions to the local economy—particularly in the digital sector—and then committing to the process to become citizens, bringing their skills and knowledge to the benefit of many workplaces in my electorate. Others arrived here as refugees or asylum seekers from war-torn countries, or countries where they were victimised due to religion, gender, political views or sexuality. Sydney benefits greatly from the diversity that new citizens bring, and I hope they feel welcomed, appreciated, and respected.