(Community Recognition Statement, 16 February 2021, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament) 

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I'd like to commend the work of ACON's Welcome Here program that helps businesses and organisations ensure they are visibly welcoming and inclusive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) communities.

While the program grew from earlier efforts focussed on providing a safe place, it is now broader and has a positive framework. Members have to demonstrate that they understand and will actively set up policies and processes to be inclusive. They receive Welcome Here rainbow stickers and charter to display in a prominent place to let everyone know that LGBTIQ diversity is welcomed and celebrated within their business. I'm proud that my office participates in these scheme along with many other shops, offices and community groups. The Welcome Here project is a great way to encourage inclusion and show it to the wider community and I commend the program and encourage others to join up with the nearly 1,700 places already registered.