"The business of politics is not just the acquisition and maintenance of power, but rather the improvement of society" - Sir Robert Menzies #Bentleigh#SpringSt
With a heavy heart we announce the passing of our beloved Katie (Mum). She spent her life caring for others as a mother, doctor, professor, MP & friend. She is deeply loved. She passed in peace surrounded by family & lived a full, beautiful life, all the way to the end.
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Katie, former Liberal Member for Higgins and I extend my heartfelt condolences to her beloved family, friends and all who loved her.
Katie was a trailblazer in every sense. She did things differently and she did them her way. You only had to be in a room with her to feel her passion. Passion for women, for medicine, for education, for the Liberal Party, and above all for people who needed a helping hand.
As colleagues in the Liberal Party and in the parliament, I knew Katie as someone of exceptional intellect, courage and warmth. She cared deeply about public service and never lost sight of the human consequences of political decisions. She believed in service, responsibility and in contributing to something larger than herself.
I remember so clearly her campaign for Chisholm, fought with determination and energy even while she was battling ill health - something none of us fully understood at the time. She blazed with the same fire she showed in the federal parliament, standing up for her community with strength and conviction. Her bravery was remarkable.
Katie brought professional excellence and deep compassion to everything she did as a doctor, an academic and a parliamentarian. She was the smartest of colleagues, the kindest of friends, and an extraordinary wife and mother. Her beautiful family were the humanity that shone through everything she did.
Katie will be remembered with deep affection and respect by her colleagues and by all who had the privilege of working alongside her. She leaves a lasting legacy of service, courage and care for others. She will be deeply missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Jewish community tonight, and all Australians impacted by this horrifying terrorist attack. 😔 🇦🇺
Statement from Jess Wilson, Victorian Leader of the Opposition. 👇
Strongly condemn the ghastly terrorist attack carried out today at Bondi Beach, Australia, targeting people celebrating the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. On behalf of the people of India, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia in this hour of grief. India has zero tolerance towards terrorism and supports the fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism.
The news of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad is absolutely devastating.
In this time of tragedy, Australia’s thoughts are with everyone affected.
Our government is receiving regular updates and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.
VICTORIA IS NO LONGER THE EDUCATION STATE
Victorian Labor secretly ripped $2.4 billion from our schools by delaying their commitment to the Gonski reforms to tackle student inequality.
Premier Jacinta Allan signed off on it. The Feds saw it, and are now slashing $300 million from Victoria’s school funding.
Student numbers are rising, Victoria’s education standards are dropping, and Labor’s answer? Less money for schools.
India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action.
India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so.
Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik.
I am pleased to announce the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site.
We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace.
On behalf of the Coalition, I wish Australians of Islamic faith a happy Ramadan.
During the holy month of Ramadan, I hope you find revitalisation in your Taraweeh prayers and rejuvenation through your fasts.
Ramadan Mubarak.
Principals blindsided by Allan govt plan for teen crims in ankle bracelets to attend class. Labor’s priorities all wrong once again. Jacinta Allan & her Govt have lost sight of their responsibility to keep kids, teachers & the community safe! #springst https://t.co/wem5NYBRDM
Labor exposed again. The Allan Labor Govt can’t manage money, they can’t manage health, & it’s Victorians who are paying the price. #springst . https://t.co/KlMEycJ7lL
Allan gov pushes ahead with controversial ‘death tax by stealth’… Victoria is so broke the morally corrupt Allan Labor Govt is taxing the dead. They stop at nothing… #springst https://t.co/JAswWPKF32
I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
Total madness. At a time when Victorians are being smashed with cost of living pressures Allan & Co making it so much harder for Victorians. Gas is critical to our energy needs. Labor shutting it all down will drive up costs further. #springst https://t.co/p9P8duxhXP
The dire state of Victoria’s finances are only worsening under Jacinta Allan.
Labor’s nine-year trend of cost blowouts, greater debt and higher taxes is going from bad to worse under her leadership. JP
Labor’s cost of living crisis has real life consequences.
And with rising taxes and debt of more than NSW, QLD & TAS combined, a massive burden will be left for our kids and grandkids.
Victorians will continue to pay more under a tired Labor Gov, that can’t manage money.