Thursday, 2 April 2026

 John PESUTTO (Hawthorn) (17:35): (1637) My adjournment matter tonight is for the Minister for Ageing. The action I seek is for the minister to meet with me and members of U3A Hawthorn to explore opportunities to strengthen their funding and support and to work with local councils, including the City of Boroondara, to promote active ageing. Established in 1984, U3A Hawthorn is one of many vibrant University of the Third Age organisations across Victoria. It is a powerful example of community-driven education at its best. Built on the simple but powerful idea that learning is lifelong, it offers a wide range of courses from language classes and literacy groups to science lectures, art workshops, music technology skills alongside social and physical activities such as yoga and walking. Importantly, it is peer-led, a model which works very well where members both teach and learn, sharing their skills, knowledge and life experience.

Last week I spoke at U3A Hawthorn in a question-and-answer session with the politics and current affairs group of approximately 100 members. We covered a wide range of topics, including recent elections, the style and tone of politics, energy, and the cost of living and planning. One of the great features of U3A Hawthorn is that it is apolitical but in a way which encourages and supports spirited debate and lively discussion. Participants are role models demonstrating how we can all engage with one another robustly and courteously at the same time. It is a real credit to the tradition that U3A Hawthorn members have fostered over many years. I would like to acknowledge each and every one of the participants whose engagement and contribution cannot be overstated.

My thanks for being invited go to David Sharland and Elizabeth Jeffrey. More broadly, I wish to commend all of U3A Hawthorn’s volunteers and members for their continued contribution to our community. It was good to catch up too with Pennie Kendall. To president Stephanie Sowerby and the board of management Judy Park, Peter Rapinet, Ellen Stoddart, Carol Lancashire, Gary Adler, Julie Angus-Kiddle, David Bennett, Ron Copperwaite, Stewart Doig, Denise Soutar and Sue Waller, thank you for giving your time, energy and expertise to ensure U3A Hawthorn continues to thrive. U3A groups are powered by volunteers, modest membership fees and access to shared community spaces. As demand increases, there is a real opportunity to ensure these organisations are well supported to expand their reach and continue delivering for their communities. At a time when social isolation is an increasing concern, particularly amongst seniors, U3A Hawthorn provides something invaluable. I hope the Minister for Ageing can accommodate my request tonight.