Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Natalie SULEYMAN (St Albans – Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business and Employment, Minister for Youth) (10:13): I rise to congratulate the Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM, the Abbot of Quang Minh Temple, on being named citizen of the year at the City of Maribyrnong 2026 Civic Awards. Venerable Tan is a pillar of our community, and his recognition is well deserved and well respected. Just yesterday I was proud to welcome the Quang Minh Temple community, including the Venerable Tan, here to Parliament. Venerable Tan arrived in Australia as a refugee in 1981 and has led the Quang Minh Temple since 1997. In that time he has become the most significant leader for the Vietnamese and Buddhist community in Victoria. Under his leadership we have seen millions of dollars donated to health care, disaster relief and humanitarian causes, including donating towards the new Footscray Hospital and of course the Joan Kirner Women and Children’s Hospital. He has acted to help victims of earthquakes and natural disasters. He serves as vice-president of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, and every single week he provides meditation, spiritual guidance and support to all members of our community. Thank you, Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan, for all that you do for our community in the west.