Thursday, 19 June 2025

Smith Family

Ben CARROLL (Niddrie – Minister for Education, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC) (09:39): Poverty should not stop a child’s learning, and education is the most powerful change agent. It is why I am so proud that the Allan Labor government has invested $6 million to support the Smith Family. The Smith Family are providing vital resources to make sure young people living in poverty get access to an education. It is hard to believe, but there are some families and some young people out there who grow up without textbooks and other learning resources that we all take for granted. That is why I was very pleased to be able to announce $6 million from the Allan Labor government to break down those barriers to make sure every child gets the opportunity to live their best life and a life of purpose.

I was out with the hardworking member for St Albans at St Albans East Primary School recently to meet with Trinh and her son Kieran, a grade 3 student who is getting all the vital support that he needs to get all that potential through education. But more than that too, I met with alumna Jade – a great story. She grew up with family difficulties, illness and financial strain, but with the Smith Family she has gone on to higher education. That is what it is also about: going on to education and making your mark in this world. People like Jade are then giving back and being mentors and leaders for the next generation coming through, just like Kieran. Thank you to the Smith Family. Keep up the great work.