Tuesday, 29 October 2024

 Richard WELCH (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (13:39): Chronic illness affects nearly one in three Australians. It is a very serious problem that needs attention. But sometimes there are barriers to assistance in that there are language barriers, particularly for new migrant Australians as well. It was my absolute pleasure to attend to give the opening speech at the Chronic Illness Awareness Day on Saturday. This is an annual event run by the Chinese Cancer and Chronic Illness Society in my electorate. I want to give particular praise to Dorothy Yiu, who has been an absolute powerhouse in getting these events off the ground. This event was conducted largely in Mandarin, with a bit of Cantonese as well. I did not attempt much of it – my address was in English – but there were four very senior presenters on chronic health and how to manage your symptoms, and they provided information.