Thursday, 31 October 2024

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (10:08): I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nirajan Gauli on his recent appointment as the Honorary Consul of Nepal to Melbourne. Last week Melbourne Nepal and the Consul General convened a roundtable discussion with Nepali youth in my electorate of Northern Metropolitan, a valuable forum that brought forward the voices and experiences of our vibrant Nepali community. From this discussion they compiled an insightful report that they are now using for advocacy to address key issues affecting their community. Among the important topics discussed and raised were employability, social inclusion and cultural integration. Mental health and the stigma often associated with it were also emphasised for young people as a critical issue, along with the powerful role that community sports play in fostering camaraderie and helping to reduce social isolation. The group also discussed the need to extend settlement services to new arrivals. This conversation provided keen insights into needs and aspirations of our Nepali community in Victoria.

I would like to thank the team at Melbourne Nepal for their dedication to representing and advocating for young Nepali Victorians. In particular I want to recognise Mr Shailesh Ghimire, Mr Tarzon Budhathoki and Mr Saroj Bhandari for their years of service to the Nepali community in Victoria for various organisations. Our government is fortunate to work with such strong, passionate community voices who are engaging with us on meaningful issues that improve the lives of all Victorians. I look forward to the ongoing dialogue with our Melbourne Nepali community.