Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Ben CARROLL (Niddrie – Minister for Education, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC) (09:38): I rise today to celebrate the official opening of the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal, a program that has been supporting families experiencing hardship at Christmas for more than 30 years. Over that time Australians have donated more than 14 million gifts, ensuring that people who might otherwise miss out during the holiday season and festive season get something meaningful to really ensure that they know that they are loved and cared for during a very special time of the year.

I recently visited the Kmart store in Airport West to celebrate the beginning of the appeal alongside Kmart and the Salvation Army. For me walking through that store is a feeling a bit like coming home. It was my very first job at 14 and nine months, and those early experiences have been lifelong – the importance of customer service responsibility as well – skills that I know I rely on today as a member of Parliament. There are not many places you can go back to in adulthood that still have such a strong familiarity, but Kmart is one of them for me.

During my visit I was able to catch up with a few people I worked with all those years ago, including my two favourite Kathys. It is always encouraging to see the strong workplace culture that exists at Kmart – the teamwork and connection to community that continues today. The Wishing Tree Appeal is a really important event, not only locally but Australia-wide. I want to thank the team at Kmart Airport West for their continued commitment as well as the Salvation Army and every person who makes a donation. The combined efforts of staff, volunteers and the public ensure the Wishing Tree continues to support families who need it most at Christmas time.