Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Responses

Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (18:18): There were 13 adjournment matters this evening to 11 separate ministers. Those matters will be referred and written responses sought in accordance with the standing orders.

Just in relation to Mr Mulholland’s matter to me as multicultural affairs minister, I will acquit that one now. Mr Mulholland is correct that visa matters are the responsibility of the Commonwealth, and I certainly think that we are on a bit of a unity ticket when it comes to supporting our diverse communities and multicultural communities across our state in having the ability to have strong family reunion. And of course I am looking forward to engaging with the newly appointed federal minister the Honourable Tony Burke. I would also note that the newly appointed assistant minister Julian Hill, the member for Bruce, has been recently appointed as the multicultural affairs and citizenship assistant minister to Minister Burke, and I do not know that I can think of a stronger advocate when it comes to issues around visas and family reunion. Julian Hill has been campaigning on these issues for many years, so he will be a fantastic advocate for our multicultural communities here in Victoria. I am certainly looking forward to working closely with him.

If Mr Mulholland wants to bring to the attention of the federal assistant minister any particular cases or particular examples of where he thinks that the visa system has not had the desired outcome, then indeed my office would be happy to facilitate those matters being referred to the Commonwealth.

The PRESIDENT: The house stands adjourned.

House adjourned 6:20 pm.